Tips for entering a Quilt Show

I've entered quilt shows, but never had the chance to judge one... until now! Get a peek behind the curtain with me at what you might want to know before entering a quilt show!

[@bobbinwithbrittany]

Thanks for showing the clamshell winner. I haven’t entered since it seemed like I needed more mastery of paper piecing and appliqué. I’m not allowed to enter my county fair because I’m not a guild member or what they define as an amateur, so I have to go state. Think I’ll go for it!

[@CarolinaMoore]

Do it!! Even if you don't win, it is a great experience! ❤️

[@loriloignon-uprichard4525]

Hi Carolina, just came across this video. From a judges perspective thoughts on machine binding both sides vs hand binding the backing portion? Also, stitch the mitred corners of the binding down or not? These seem to be things I can’t get firm answers on and would greatly help, thank you! :) Awesome tips, btw. Love the “you need to show up” thought for sure!

[@GinaGrowe]

Thank you for the tips and sharing. The Best of Show quilt was lovely - looked like a lot of Zen Chic fabrics and some grunge. What did the back look like - was it pieced? Do you put a quilt label on the quilt when it's for a competition or can it be a label stating who you made it for and does the date matter?

[@CarolinaMoore]

Great questions! I don't remember the fabric they used on the back, I don't recall it being pieced? Yes, you can label your quilt. Just put Painter's tape over the label to remove any identifying information. The date does matter... most shows only allow a quilt made in the last 2 years (unless it is specifically a "vintage" category).

[@blueyucca011]

Thank you for this! I am getting ready to submit a quilt for my first ever state fair. I am still trying to figure out how to attach an appropriate hanging sleeve. I am not so concerned at this point at getting a ribbon, just trying to focus on actually following through on entering a judged event!

[@CarolinaMoore]

You came to the right place! I have a whole video on hanging sleeves! kzbin.info/www/bejne/e2LMg4Swn6aGiK8 And YAY for following through and entering a quilt! 🥰

[@zahraleone]

I am entering for the first time this year. Can you explain (or show) what the hanging sleeve should look like or how it should be attached please? The instructions are somewhat vague & the email I sent was not answered to my satisfaction. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@CarolinaMoore]

Even better... I have a video that shows you how to add one. ❤️ kzbin.info/www/bejne/e2LMg4Swn6aGiK8si=evGibV5DYCOLgt4W

[@lindak5610]

I have a question about threads and pet hair. What if my quilt is clean, but the quilt before it or after it is dirty. Aren't quilts stacked on top of each other for judging? Can a judge tell if the quilt was the clean one, not the one that picked up the threads and hair from a competitor?

[@CarolinaMoore]

That's a great question, and yes. The quilts that have threads and pet hair have them throughout. It is obvious. 😉

[@SewJoyful]

Do you have a bling sewing machine?!? 😍

[@CarolinaMoore]

hahaha.... yes, I covered a sewing machine with rhinestones earlier this year. And yes, it still works!

[@cazkiwinz4300]

First thing that caught me eye! Now I wanna do that to one of my 9 machines…. But which one….. 😂

[@CarolinaMoore]

Hahaha... it is fun, but this was a LOT of work! 🤪