QuiltCon Original Work Policy

The MQG has a preference for innovative, original design in QuiltCon quilts. This is because displaying highly innovative work at QuiltCon reflects the mission of the MQG to “support and encourage the growth and development of modern quilting through art, education, and community.” Additionally, it helps keep the show interesting from year-to-year, thereby supporting the success of the organization. In all categories, preference will be given to quilts that apply the principles of each category in innovative ways.

The MQG acknowledges that it is very difficult to have a clear definition of “original design” when it comes to artwork, including quilts. As such, the MQG relies upon its members to use their best judgment when submitting quilts for consideration in the QuiltCon show and to provide complete and accurate information as requested on the entry form. 

If a submitted quilt is not an original design, the submission form asks for the design source. In some cases, this may help judges determine how innovative the quilt is. In all cases, it is the quilt maker’s responsibility to seek out the proper rights and permissions as needed to enter a quilt in the show.

The MQG does not and cannot establish guidelines or rules regarding what would be considered copyright infringement, which is a legal question that can only be answered by a court of law. Note that copyright infringement may be found even if a quilt is not an exact or close copy of a work protected by copyright. For basic information about U.S. copyright law, see www.copyright.gov. 

To protect itself from potential disputes, the MQG recommends that makers who wish to submit a quilt that is heavily influenced by another artist/quilter’s work request permission from the original artist (or current copyright holder) or seek counsel from a qualified attorney to determine if they are at risk of infringing on a copyright owned by someone else. This recommendation only relates to the exhibition or commercial use of the quilt. The MQG will not require you to show proof of permission when submitting your quilt to the show.

The MQG does not defend members against claims of copyright infringement or insufficient credit being given that arise as a result of quilts being selected for display in the QuiltCon show.

The MQG acknowledges that, although unlikely, it is possible for two different people to come up with two very similar designs even when they work entirely independently. It is also possible for two people to have different opinions about whether or not something is a copy of another work. The MQG does not get involved in settling any disputes that arise from this situation.

The MQG reserves the right to rescind awards and require the return of prize monies if a quilter is found to have knowingly misrepresented their work.