Oh that is not a quilt it isn't big enough

[snowplow3840]

I brought two "round robins" that I was putting borders on to our quilt group here in the seniors park where I live. The first comment I got when I explained what we were doing and how many more borders there were to put on each piece was "oh you aren't making a quilt it isn't big enough" I guess I must have looked puzzled (maybe because I was) because she went on to add well its not big enough for a bed so its ONLY a wall hanging not a quilt. For once I bit my tongue and didn't say what I was thinking, but I definitely was taken aback and surprised because this particular woman has made many table runners and other small items and I would never have said they were not quilts.

Does anyone out there have a good comeback with out being rude or sarcastic? I am already the rogue quilter in that group because I rarely follow a pattern even less often do I do standard blocks or squares and triangles. I have done them and can do them but don't like them for me. (the quilts that others do with traditional patterns are often very beautiful but I would not enjoy the process of making them) Because I am the roque quilter I try to be extra polite and complimentary when others show their work that simply leaves me cold but there are a few of the group that don't seem to respect my choices in quilting in the same way that I try to respect theirs. I am at a loss how to co exist with the traditional quilters in that group. I gain a lot of valuable information and tips from the leaders and many of the members so I am reluctant to quit attending but so often comeaway with little or no self esteem because of the comments of those few people.

hope someone has some clearer vision about this issue because I have lost mine. Ann maybe being on the road will clear my head!!! (if that is possible LOL)

[snowplow3840]

It might be sarcastic, but I would say "Oh, I didn't know quilts came with a minimum size requirement. Guess I should tell that to my friend who makes miniature doll quilts."

[snowplow3840]

I don't have a comback, because like you I would bite my tongue in confusion also. But what about "LAP QUILTS"???? If it has three layers held together by stitching, it is a quilt in my book. Why would it have quilt in the title if it wasn't a quilt.

Just my two cents. Cheryl

[snowplow3840]

First is she posted on this site? ??? Now the next time she looks at you and makes such an obvious oversight in beauty and judgement. After all who declared her the QUILT POLICE. Just thank her for her oppinion. Tell her that it is absolutely amazing that after so many years past her childhood she can be so creative and still stay inside the lines. Where you have always found that for your style of creativity there was always more room outside the lines. Neither way is wrong mind you but you have always found your way much more fun, her way is way too cramped. Let's see if that doesn't help broaden her insight. Who knows maybe she will learn to color outside the lines.

[snowplow3840]

Tell your traditional quilting friend that by defination, a" quilt" is three layers, top, batting and backing. Tell her that her quilts may be used to warm the body but yours are meant to warm the soul. Stay sweet and smile but do not let your views on the subject go unsaid. There is room for all of us in this great big worderful world of quilting. Betty Ann in perfect weather in Florida.

[snowplow3840]

Beautifully said Betty Ann.

[MontanaGramma]

Very good, Betty Ann. My first thought was that I wouldn't say anything at all; because if I opened my mouth, what came out might not be very nice :-) But I think your reply was perfect.

[MontanaGramma]

Oppps, think I have made a lot of "non-quilts" trough out the years :lol: :? :shock: And most of my quilting magazines has "non-quilts" in them too :P
I would like to know what size "quilt" makes it a quilt so I dont make the same mistake in the future :lol: ops:
I think she just let her mouth run without thinking what she was saying!!!!

[Lorchen]

"Are you saying that size matters?"

"Oh, are you saying you always need yours big?"

"I decide if it's a quilt, My Dear!"

"My man and I snuggle up close so we don't need a kingsize quilt"

"As long as it covers my bum on a cold night I'm a happy camper!"

"Oh, I must have missed it. Is there an official quilt size standard?"

And finally (but not recommended): "Get lost!"

Lorchen

[snowplow3840]

Thanks Lorchen everyone of those comments are wonderful. I am going to print them out and put them on my idea wall so I can review them every time I go to our park quilt group.

I know I am the "odd ball" in our quilt group but am making two quilts this summer with a more traditional feel to them still no pieces blocks but at least there are SQUARES and they will be set on point. Oh my I may lose my rogue reputation. but probably by summer's end I will have done some kind of project that will renew my rogue odd ball and outcast reputation. I just try to remember that half of the world is below average and the other half above and I refuse to be on the bubble so I am either above or below depending on your point of view. (I believe I am above but that is my not so Humble opiniion)

Ann currently in Olive Branch MS

[snowplow3840]

Lorchen

That was really cute,"SWEET"!!! :lol:
I'm also a happy camper but we travel like Chevy Chase,always a great advanture!
Hey there Ann I'll trade even for Campers! LOL!
You guys have a "super nice camper". DH and I would Love to be able to travel like you and your DH. It is a dream were still sleeping on, Maybe some day!

Hugzzz, Kathy

[Judymc]

Ann, just keep smiling--there will always be THOSE TYPES of people in the world. But, remember, WE are out here cheering for YOU!!! Happy camping!!!

[Judymc]

"my quilt, my rules"
:lol: :lol:

[Lorchen]

Anne, always be an 'odd ball'. You'll be remembered when other people are forgotten, and you'll never be boring!

Lorchen

[Lorchen]

Anne Thank God for Odd Balls like you. You must come from a line of bakers like me. I was always number 13 at the table too. And everyone knows a bakers dozen has more to offer then a simple dozen. Shoot why do you think the nine patch is the most popular block in quilting. Need I say more? I think not. Now don't you go getting too traditional over this summer. By the way I don't think you are off your bubble... I think you are the bubbles that make my root beer a float. Love ya just the way you are Rachel :wink: