San Benito County Fair Clothing & Textiles Competition

Earlier this week, I enjoyed a gorgeous drive down to Tres Pinos where I served as a judge for the San Benito County Fair Clothing & Textiles competition. Upon arrival, I found tables and tables of quilts folded and sorted for judging. Over the course of the day, we judged each category while providing feedback for each entrant, as well as awarding ribbons.  In addition to the traditional categories (pieced, applique, challenge quilts, etc), this year we had a number of quilted rugs entered, forming their own unique class.

Quilt Judging in Progress

Not only was I delighted to see such strong design work (composition, unity, use of color and value, etc), but exceptional quality of construction as well.  It is always a little sad when we finish judging the last category of quilts, as that means no more new quilts to admire and celebrate.  While there was a lot to admire over the course of the day, here are just a few quilts that really captured my eye!  Please note that names were not visible during the judging process, but I snapped pictures of the display cards once the judging and awards were finalized in order to include credits.

Anna M Berger 

Anna's entry included such an amazing array of hand embroidered textures, patterns, and detail to create her under the sea world!!

Anna M Berger Details

Irene's pinwheel caught my attention for two reasons:
1. The bright batik pinwheels just glow against the muddy grey background
2. I really loved the all-over quilting motif combining spirals and zig zags!

Irene Towler's Details

Jamie Frusetta's Hawaiian applique quilts feature impeccable hand applique and hand quilting, in addition to an amazing use of color and hand-embroidered embellishments.

Jamie Frusetta's Duo of Hawaiian Applique Quilts

Below is my Judge's Choice. This quilt was entered into one of the Challenge categories requiring the use of a challenge print (the abacus background print). I just loved how Irene added her own Mid Century Mod Holiday twist into her design. Plus the facial expressions captured on each of the kitties made me smile!

My Judges Choice--Awarded to Irene Towler

Thanks to Diane M for all her coordination work with the Clothing & Textile competition.  Many thanks to my fellow judges, and to all the volunteers for making the day of Judging go so smoothly!  Last but not least, special thanks to everyone who entered their work into the San Benito County Fair Clothing & Textiles competition!  It will truly be a spectacular exhibit thanks to each and every one of your entries!!

I encourage you to visit the San Benito County Fair, open through Sunday, October 6th, so you too can see all the fabulous quilts, textiles & clothing on display plus partake in all the other County Fair Fun!!