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Could You Become a Quilt Judge? Discover Our International Quilt Judging Course
Guild News - 6th July 2026
Have you ever stood in front of an award-winning quilt and wondered what makes it exceptional? Is it the design, the technical skill, the colour choices, or perhaps something less tangible that makes a piece truly memorable?
For many experienced quilters, there comes a point when making quilts is only part of the story. They begin to look at quilts differently – analysing, comparing and understanding the decisions that transform a good quilt into an outstanding one.
If that sounds like you, our Quilt Judging Course could be your next exciting challenge.
The Quilters' Guild of the British Isles offers an internationally recognised Quilt Judging Course, designed to develop the knowledge, confidence and practical skills needed to become an accredited quilt judge. Whether you're based in the UK, Europe, North America, Australia or anywhere else in the world, we warmly welcome applications from experienced quilters who are ready to take their passion in a new direction.
What is Quilt Judging?
Quilt judging is about far more than choosing a winner.
A good quilt judge understands design principles, appreciates a wide range of techniques and can evaluate work fairly, consistently and constructively. Quilt judges play an important role in competitions and juried exhibitions, helping to recognise excellence while encouraging makers at every stage of their creative journey.
Becoming a quilt judge develops skills that many quilters find valuable in other areas too. It encourages critical thinking, deepens understanding of design and construction, and often changes the way participants approach their own quilt making.
Many graduates say they never look at quilts in quite the same way again.
What Makes Our Quilt Judging Course Different?
Established in 2003, the Quilt Judging Course was created to provide professional, well-trained judges and to promote fair and consistent standards in quilt competitions and exhibitions.
Over the years, the programme has developed into an internationally respected course with learners joining us from around the world.
The course offers:
• A structured, two-year programme of study
• Support from experienced accredited Course Leaders
• A balance of independent learning and practical exercises
• The opportunity to develop critical evaluation and communication skills
• An internationally recognised accreditation
Most importantly, it offers the chance to become part of a supportive and knowledgeable community of quilt judges and passionate textile enthusiasts.
Who Is the Quilt Judging Course For?
This course is designed for experienced quilters who:
• Want to challenge themselves in a new way
• Are fascinated by quilt design and construction
• Enjoy analysing and discussing quilts
• Have a broad interest in patchwork and quilting styles
• Would like to contribute to the wider quilting community
• Are keen to encourage and support other quilt makers
You do not need previous judging experience.
What matters most is your enthusiasm for learning, your willingness to study independently and your desire to explore quilting in greater depth.
What Will You Learn?
The Quilt Judging Course consists of six modules completed over two years:
Understanding Design and Materials
Explore the foundations of quilt design and the properties of materials used in patchwork and quilting.
Elements of Design
Develop a deeper understanding of colour, balance, rhythm, proportion and visual impact.
Construction Techniques
Examine the technical aspects of quilt construction and develop practical sampling skills.
Materials and Products
Investigate how different materials and products influence the finished piece.
Jurying Exhibitions
Learn how exhibitions are selected and develop practical evaluation skills.
Judging Competitions
Apply everything you have learned through practical judging exercises.
Throughout the course, learners undertake independent study and complete written assignments while receiving support and feedback from an accredited Course Leader.
An International Quilt Judging Course – Open to Learners Worldwide
One of the strengths of our Quilt Judging Course is its international reach.
We are proud to welcome learners from around the world and value the different perspectives and experiences they bring. Quilting is a global art form, and our judging community is enriched by its diversity.
Most of the course is delivered virtually, making participation possible wherever you live. Overseas learners are fully supported, and alternative arrangements are available where travel to practical sessions is not possible.
If English is not your first language, you are very welcome to apply, provided you are comfortable communicating and writing in English.
No matter where you live, if you are passionate about quilts and eager to learn, this course could be for you.
A Unique Opportunity to Judge at the Festival of Quilts
One of the highlights of the programme is that every successful learner is guaranteed an opportunity to judge at the Festival of Quilts in Birmingham, UK, one of the world's leading quilt events.
For many graduates, this is a career-defining experience and an invaluable opportunity to put their skills into practice alongside experienced judges and fellow textile professionals.
Why Become an Accredited Quilt Judge?
Becoming an accredited quilt judge can:
• Deepen your appreciation of quilt design and craftsmanship
• Enhance your analytical and communication skills
• Give you a fresh perspective on your own work
• Enable you to support and encourage other makers
• Connect you with an international network of knowledgeable quilters
• Open opportunities to judge competitions and exhibitions
For many participants, the journey is just as rewarding as the qualification itself.
Could This Be Your Next Step?
If you've spent years making quilts, teaching others, exhibiting your work or immersing yourself in the world of patchwork and quilting, perhaps now is the time to explore a different side of the craft.
The Quilt Judging Course offers a stimulating and rewarding challenge that can deepen your understanding of quilts and introduce you to a community of like-minded learners from around the world.
The next course begins on 6 November 2026.
Applications close on 18 October 2026.
Find Out More
For full details of the course structure, fees and application process, please visit here
Your quilting journey may be about to take an exciting new direction.
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