Quilt Competition FAQs

Quilt Competition Frequently Asked Questions

Can you help me decide which category to enter?
We are unable to advise on category choice for individual pieces. We suggest you read the category definitions carefully and also look at the examples of previous winners on each category page to guide you.

Does my entry need to be finished before I submit the entry form?
Ideally yes but if you’re struggling to complete it, enter before the deadline (using an image of the work in progress) and then email the photo of the completed quilt later to [email protected].

The size of your quilt is most critical to our plans, so if the size changes after you’ve submitted the entry, you’ll need to alert us as early as possible (otherwise we may not be able to hang the quilt).

Why are photographs required?
All entries will be featured in an online gallery on the FoQ website after the show. That way, all quilts can be seen by even wider audiences. However, please be assured that the judging will be done at the live show and NOT from photographs, so don’t worry if your photography isn’t perfect!

I am struggling to photograph my quilt, what should I do?
We appreciate that bad weather can be a problem for photographing quilts, and that some of you may have difficulty with re-sizing. Please read our guidance on photographing your quilt which should help you. It’s fine to use a smart phone and the image doesn’t need to be perfect, just do the best you can. The photograph you submit will have no influence on winning a prize as the judges will make their decision based on the actual quilt, not the photograph.  

Can I submit my entry without a photograph?
You do need to submit at least one image with the entry form, but if your piece isn’t finished (or you’re unhappy with the photo), you can email a photograph later (by 29th July latest) for us to use in place of the original. If you need to do this, please send the image by email to [email protected].

When will the quilts be judged?
On Wednesday 2nd August, the judging will take place at the NEC once all quilts have been hung. The only category that won’t be judged is the new ‘For the Joy of Sharing category’.

What should I do if I make a mistake on the entry form or if something changes?
Please email us on [email protected] and we’ll do our best to amend the info you provided.

Will labels be sent to entrants in order to post / deliver our quilts?
Yes we will email all entrants with labels and instructions ahead of sending / delivering to us for the show. We will also email your unique Quilt Entry Number which will need to be used on the labels and on all correspondence relating to your piece.

What address should I post my quilt to?
Please visit the Getting Your Quilt To Us page which has all addresses.
Please ONLY post / courier quilts to Bill Bowden Event Logistics and no other address!

When are the wining quilts announced / revealed?
Winning quilts are announced at the Awards Ceremony on Thursday 3rd August at 12.30pm. Until then, the winning quilts (located in the Winners’ Galley) will be covered up. Winners are revealed at 2pm on the opening day of the show.