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New Candidate FAQs
I’ve already judged a couple of local guild shows and county fairs. Why should I consider becoming an NACQJ quilt judge?
The advantages and rewards of being a certified quilt judge are many, some immediate and some lifelong. There is recognition in the quilting world at large that the person has achieved a high degree of knowledge and competency, far exceeding that of most quilt judges. Show sponsors understand that certified judges are fair and well versed in both workmanship techniques and design theory, and that they make decisions and comments based on established principles and standards, not on personal opinion. These facts make it more likely that CJs will be hired for venues beyond their local area. There is also the benefit of being associated with a like-minded group of individuals across the country who share information, discuss new trends and techniques, gather for study and seminars, and develop lifelong friendships.
How do I know if I’m ready to submit an application for certified judge candidacy?
To be certified, you must demonstrate experience judging quilt shows and knowledge in all areas of quilt design, construction, and finishing.
What does the certification process involve, and how long will it take me?
General Requirements
What happens once I am certified?
You are entitled to use the initials NACQJ professionally, and to use your status as a Certified Judge as proof of your competence. Your name will be added to the list of Certified Judges posted on this website, and your name will be shared with interested parties who may be searching for judges to assist with quilt shows. You will receive a certificate. There may be opportunities to assist with the judging process at local and national quilt shows.
How do I obtain an enrollment application?
To obtain an enrollment application, click on the button below to download or contact the Judge Certification Program Candidate Coordinator:
Sandy Gard, [email protected]
The completed application and the enrollment fee ($150 U.S. Residents; $175 Non-US Residents) will be returned to the Candidate Coordinator to the address listed on the form.
The advantages and rewards of being a certified quilt judge are many, some immediate and some lifelong. There is recognition in the quilting world at large that the person has achieved a high degree of knowledge and competency, far exceeding that of most quilt judges. Show sponsors understand that certified judges are fair and well versed in both workmanship techniques and design theory, and that they make decisions and comments based on established principles and standards, not on personal opinion. These facts make it more likely that CJs will be hired for venues beyond their local area. There is also the benefit of being associated with a like-minded group of individuals across the country who share information, discuss new trends and techniques, gather for study and seminars, and develop lifelong friendships.
How do I know if I’m ready to submit an application for certified judge candidacy?
To be certified, you must demonstrate experience judging quilt shows and knowledge in all areas of quilt design, construction, and finishing.
- You should have at least three experiences on a judging room floor within the previous five years. An experience may include acting as a judge, fanner, scribe, holder, or even observer, if observation is exclusive of other simultaneous responsibilities such as quilt show chair or director. Hanging or taking down a quilt show does not satisfy the requirement for continuous dedicated attention to the judging process for an entire judging day. One of the three experiences must be with a NACQJ certified judge.
- You will have judged at least 35 quilts at a single show in the previous five years.
What does the certification process involve, and how long will it take me?
- Submission of the completed application and enrollment fees. Once the Certified Judge Coordinator receives the application the Candidate will be sent a list of in-depth judging and technique questions which are referred to as the Paperwork, a Credential Questionnaire, and additional Program information.
- Completion of the Paperwork portion of the certification
- Completion of the Panel Review.
General Requirements
- The enrollment period for a Candidate is five years, during which time the Paperwork and Panel Review should be successfully completed.
- Candidates must maintain their NACQJ membership during their enrollment period.
- Candidates are required to serve as judges' aides for at least two full days at two different NACQJ participating quilt shows: once before submitting their Paperwork and again before their Panel Review. Candidates are highly encouraged to aide at all NACQJ participating quilt shows during enrollment.
- The two-day "Introduction to Quilt Judging" seminar is not required but is highly recommended to all candidates. Website link on button below.
- Candidates are encouraged to actively pursue judging and aiding jobs for as many different judged shows as possible. These jobs are one form of educational opportunity.
- When pursuing jobs at judging venues, a Candidate may use the phrase "currently enrolled in the NACQJ Judges' Certification Program," but may NOT represent themselves as NACQJ Judges or as being sponsored by the National Association of Certified Quilt Judges.
What happens once I am certified?
You are entitled to use the initials NACQJ professionally, and to use your status as a Certified Judge as proof of your competence. Your name will be added to the list of Certified Judges posted on this website, and your name will be shared with interested parties who may be searching for judges to assist with quilt shows. You will receive a certificate. There may be opportunities to assist with the judging process at local and national quilt shows.
How do I obtain an enrollment application?
To obtain an enrollment application, click on the button below to download or contact the Judge Certification Program Candidate Coordinator:
Sandy Gard, [email protected]
The completed application and the enrollment fee ($150 U.S. Residents; $175 Non-US Residents) will be returned to the Candidate Coordinator to the address listed on the form.
*This button will download a copy of the form to your computer's download folder. On most computers you will see a notification on the bottom left corner of the screen while still on this website. If you click on it, it will open on your computer where you can print/save it.
This form cannot be filled out and submitted electronically.
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