Criteria for Judging Quilts
Quilts are judged most often at a quilting guild show, county or state fair. The quilts are closely scrutinized for quilting techniques as well as artistry. Quilt judges are required to undergo intensive training, take a written exam, go through interviews by three certified judges and participate in a mock quilt judging session. The judges at a quilt show are capable of detecting the smallest flaw in any quilt.
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Workmanship
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When judges are studying a quilt's workmanship, they are looking at stitch length, precise piecing, straight seams, matched corners, sharp points, straight borders and smooth fabrics without puckers, folds or stretching. The quilting stitches should be smooth and consistent; no back-stitching or knots should be visible. The quilting design should complement the piecing of the quilt top. The quilt binding should be properly applied with no bulges or visible hand stitches. Appliques should be smooth, without folds or bulges.
Design
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Design elements in a quilt are subjective, however, judges look for unity of design and skill. If the design is interesting and pleasing to the eye, but poorly executed, it will not score well. When judges look at design they consider: color, texture, shape and shading. The quilting design should complement the quilt top's design. The judges look for a unified quilt where all elements, the top, sashing, border, binding and quilting present one complete design.
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General Appearance
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Judges also consider the general appearance of a quilt. The quilt should be clean and free of odors. No threads, pet hairs, dirt or lint should be present on the quilt. The back of the quilt must be free of stains and soiling as well. Transferring a freshly dry-cleaned quilt to the judging location in a dry-cleaner's bag will keep the quilt fresh and clean. The quilt should hold its shape when hung.
Special Categories
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Technique within a quilt is another area that judges scrutinize. Applique, embroidery, hand quilting and photo transfers often have their own category. For this reason, one quilt may win in several categories. In order to win a ribbon in a specialized category your technique and design must be flawless. Some quilt shows will only allow a quilt to be entered into one category, while others will allow one quilt to have multiple entries.
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References
- Photo Credit Steve Baccon/Photodisc/Getty Images
