|
|
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 Nationally Certified Judge 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 apply for certified judge candidacy?
● You must have a minimum of three experiences within the previous five years in a judging situation, either as a judge, aide, scribe, or observer, to apply to the Judge Certification Program. One of those experiences must be with a NACQJ-certified judge. Again, acceptable judging experiences include aiding, scribing, fanning, holding, judging, and shadowing, as these activities allow for direct and continuous observation of the judging process. Positions and responsibilities such as show director, judging coordinator, quilt show hanging, or take-down do not allow for direct and continuous observation and are not acceptable for the three-experience minimum.
● You must have judged at least 35 quilts at a single show in the previous five years.
What is involved in the certification process, and how long will it take?
● Submit the completed Enrollment Application
● Complete the Enrollment Interview
● Sign and return the Onboarding Documents
● Receive Judge Certification Program Information and Modules
● Complete Modules and Assessments
● Participate in judging activities and learning opportunities
● Attend and aid at two NACQJ Partner Shows
● Pay yearly dues
● Complete Live Panel
The Judge Certification Program must be completed in five years..
General Requirements:
1. The enrollment period for a Candidate is five years, during which time the Modules and Live Panel must be successfully completed.
2. Candidates must pay NACQJ annual dues during their enrollment period.
3. Candidates are required to serve as aides for at least two full days at two different NACQJ Partner Quilt Shows. Candidates are highly encouraged to aid at all NACQJ Partner Quilt Shows during enrollment. Partner Shows are a yearly event.
4. The two-day Introduction to Quilt Judging and Advanced Judging Seminar is not required but is highly recommended for all candidates. See the link at the top of the page.
5. Candidates are encouraged to actively pursue judging, aiding, and shadowing at judged quilt shows. Strive to participate with Certified Judges when possible.
How do I obtain an enrollment application?
To obtain an Enrollment Application, click on the button above to download. The Enrollment Application cannot be submitted electronically. Complete, print, sign, and mail the form to the Candidate Coordinator.
What happens once I am certified?
You will be 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 and name tag, and you are eligible for all other NACQJ membership privileges.
Copyright © 2025 National Association of Certified Quilt Judges
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 Nationally Certified Judge 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 apply for certified judge candidacy?
● You must have a minimum of three experiences within the previous five years in a judging situation, either as a judge, aide, scribe, or observer, to apply to the Judge Certification Program. One of those experiences must be with a NACQJ-certified judge. Again, acceptable judging experiences include aiding, scribing, fanning, holding, judging, and shadowing, as these activities allow for direct and continuous observation of the judging process. Positions and responsibilities such as show director, judging coordinator, quilt show hanging, or take-down do not allow for direct and continuous observation and are not acceptable for the three-experience minimum.
● You must have judged at least 35 quilts at a single show in the previous five years.
What is involved in the certification process, and how long will it take?
● Submit the completed Enrollment Application
● Complete the Enrollment Interview
● Sign and return the Onboarding Documents
● Receive Judge Certification Program Information and Modules
● Complete Modules and Assessments
● Participate in judging activities and learning opportunities
● Attend and aid at two NACQJ Partner Shows
● Pay yearly dues
● Complete Live Panel
The Judge Certification Program must be completed in five years..
General Requirements:
1. The enrollment period for a Candidate is five years, during which time the Modules and Live Panel must be successfully completed.
2. Candidates must pay NACQJ annual dues during their enrollment period.
3. Candidates are required to serve as aides for at least two full days at two different NACQJ Partner Quilt Shows. Candidates are highly encouraged to aid at all NACQJ Partner Quilt Shows during enrollment. Partner Shows are a yearly event.
4. The two-day Introduction to Quilt Judging and Advanced Judging Seminar is not required but is highly recommended for all candidates. See the link at the top of the page.
5. Candidates are encouraged to actively pursue judging, aiding, and shadowing at judged quilt shows. Strive to participate with Certified Judges when possible.
How do I obtain an enrollment application?
To obtain an Enrollment Application, click on the button above to download. The Enrollment Application cannot be submitted electronically. Complete, print, sign, and mail the form to the Candidate Coordinator.
What happens once I am certified?
You will be 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 and name tag, and you are eligible for all other NACQJ membership privileges.
Copyright © 2025 National Association of Certified Quilt Judges