Overall Objectives of Jurying the QuiltCon Show

• To select quilts that best represent the MQG definition of modern quilting and fit into at least one of the categories described in the Call for Entries. The official MQG definition of modern quilting can be found on the MQG website and is incorporated herein for reference.
• To select a diverse combination of quilts that will lead to a visually appealing, cohesive, and inspiring quilt show that supports and encourages the growth and development of modern quilting, in keeping with the MQG’s mission.

QuiltCon Show Rules

• QuiltCon show entry rules are incorporated herein for reference. The MQG reserves the right to reject quilt entries that do not adhere to the rules.
• The MQG staff review entries for adherence to rules prior to jurying and may move quilts from one category into another based on category-specific requirements (e.g., size limit for small quilts, age limit for youth category, etc.).
• If QuiltCon believes that a quilter may not have provided credit to the design source/inspiration (e.g., a piece of art, other quilt, etc.) on their entry form, we may reach out to the quilter and request clarification or confirmation. If the quilter indicates that this was a mistake and provides additional information, their entry will be officially modified to include the additional information. Alternatively, the quilter may choose to confirm that the original entry form was complete and accurate.
• All entry rules are posted on the QuiltCon website.

Jurying Panel

QuiltCon uses a jury panel of four to five jurors, consisting of two to three modern quilters with a demonstrated understanding of modern quilting principles, one current board member, and one current staff member. Jurors are selected exclusively by MQG staff.

The MQG follows the common show practice of not releasing juror names.

Jurying Process

The entire jurying process is done anonymously in that the jurors see only images, quilt titles, and techniques used without being told the identity of the submitting quilter. All jurying is done electronically using an online jurying software program.

Exceptions to this policy can be made for the Youth category (quilts made by members under the age of 18). In order to encourage the next generation of quilters, in this category at least one quilt is accepted per quilter, should space permit it.

Jurors may begin rating quilts at any time during the quilt submission window; however, no decisions about quilt acceptances are made until the submission window closes. Jurors may edit votes as needed until the deadline provided by MQG staff.

The jurors are instructed to evaluate quilts based on the merits and quality of the quilt design and construction and shall endeavor not to allow personal biases regarding the subject matter or content of the quilt to influence jurying decisions.

Scoring Quilts

Scores are not shared with the quilt makers or anyone else outside the jury.
Jurors score each quilt privately using a 1 to 5 scale, with 5 being the highest score.
Jurors consider the following primary criteria:

1. Does the quilt align with the MQG definition of modern quilting?
2. Does the quilt fit within the category guidelines?
3. Does the quality of the work enhance or distract from the overall visual impact?

Jurors then consider the following secondary criteria to assist in assigning scores:

• Visual Impact
• Originality or Innovation
• Visual appeal & composition

Throughout jurying, the jurors can review their selections in collections sorted by score. Jurors are encouraged to review these collections with an eye for consistency and adherence to the jurying objectives.

Quilt Selection Process

A live web conference is arranged for the jurors to collectively evaluate the quilt images and average scores and make final decisions on which quilts are accepted into QuiltCon. 

If more than four quilts are accepted for any single entrant, the jury will view images of all quilts by this maker together and select no more than four for inclusion into QuiltCon. 

Jurors must recuse themselves from scoring any quilt in which a personal relationship with the maker may prohibit an impartial score. During the jury meeting, jurors must refrain from contributing to the discussion regarding any quilt known to be made by a family member or close friend, or in which the juror had any part in making.