Judging Guidelines for the Machine Quilters Showcase (MQS)
(E) = Excellent (S) Satisfactory (N) Needs Improvement
E S N  Appropriate design; enhances the quilt
E S N  Creativity of design
E S N  Quilting density well-balanced
E S N  Straight lines are straight; curved lines are smooth
E S N  Parallel and grid lines are evenly spaced and well concealed
E S N  Tension
E S N  Stitch length and consistency
E S N  Beginnings and endings of quilt lines are well concealed
E S N  Stitch in the ditch (SID) is in the seam
E S N  Trapunto (or similar technique) is well done and evenly stuffed
Areas of Strength:_________________________________________
Areas of improvement:______________________________________
Appliqué/piecing of top:
E S N  General appearance
E S N  Design
E S N  Construction
E S N  Binding
Areas of Strength:__________________________________________
Areas of Improvement:_______________________________________
Judging Guidelines for the International Quilters Exposition (Houston Quilt Show)
(+) = Excellent (‚) = Satisfactory (-) = Needs improvement
_____Visual Impact
_____Original in Design
_____Execution of chose construction techniques
_____Appropriateness of quilting design
_____Execution of quilting technique
_____Use of Color
_____Balance of Design
_____Integration of all design elements
_____Overall appearance
Best features of this quilt are (circle only items apply)
  1. Excellent visual impact
  2. Accurately pieced
  3. Well appliquéd
  4. Bindings full and well applied
  5. Good choice of quilting design and style
  6. Well executed quilting enhances this quilt
  7. Outstanding use of color
  8. Creative use of patterns
  9. Well balanced design
  10. Colors and fabrics well chosen for quilt style
  11. Appropriate use of embroidery and/or embellishment
  12. Pleasing overall appearance
  13. Very original
  14. Stood up well against strong competition