Judging
As a quilt judge, Colleen’s goals are to identify excellence in quilt entries and to provide meaningful feedback to all entrants. Positively phrased design and technical feedback for quilters of all abilities provide a high-quality experience for the entrants. From traditional and contemporary quilts to modern and art quilts, Colleen offers a wealth of knowledge to the shows that she judges. Great design and superb workmanship can be found in all quilt styles.
She has served as a volunteer for the judging room at regional shows for the past twenty years and has been judging for four years. Colleen has extensive knowledge of art history, design, and traditional quilt construction. She reaches for meaning and understanding in both modern quilts and art quilts and appreciates workmanship decisions that support the message of the artist.
Why hire a judge?
Professional judging is an important aspect of a quilt show. Entrants benefit from a thoughtful, knowledgeable judge who looks at each entry carefully. Comment sheets share strong features and great decisions by the entrant as well as potential areas for improvement.
Services I Provide
Colleen is eager to answer your questions and provide options for your group to consider to best meet your needs for a successful show. As a quilt show judge, Colleen provides feedback through scribes secured by the show sponsor. If your group has not previously hosted a show, a team of volunteers will be essential in the judging process. Seek information for your show from trustworthy sources.
Lectures are available at shows that I judge. Check out the Zoom Lectures.
Also available at shows is:
Judge’s Talk: Show Quilts
This talk is available for a group up to 25 participants to walk around the show prior to the opening of the show. (No additional people present.) The judge highlights exquisite choices, workmanship, and unusual techniques. For professionalism, no negative aspects or ribbon comparisons are made.
Book Colleen!
With an available date, and a finalized contract by the sponsor and Colleen, a $100 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve the judging dates.
Upon our completed contract, I can:
Review your category list and offer ideas
Offer suggestions for challenges
Supply entrant feedback forms
Answer judging-related questions.
Colleen also welcomes jurying positions for quilt shows or exhibitions.
Book now for 2026 - 2028.
2026 Contracts to be announced soon!
Recent Judged Shows
2024 Fargo Moorhead Quilters Guild Show
2024 Minot Prairie Quilt Festival
2023 Lake of the Woods Land Slipper Guild Show
2023 North Dakota State Fair
2023 Mary’s Quilt Market Quilt Show
2022 North Dakota State Fair
2022 Mary’s Quilt Market Quilt Show
Co-judging the Fargo Moorhead Quilters Show 2024 with Certified Judge Kate Eekema (L). Also pictures is candidate Lynette Mart (R).
Fees
Contact Colleen with your show details.
The total invoice will include all travel expenses from her home in Grand Forks, ND to your venue address. (IRS mileage or flights, and hotel in addition to judging fees. Lectures are also available. She does not require lectures to accept a judging contract. Check your judging dates and contact Colleen.