If you are used to QuiltCon, whether as an attendee or an online viewer, you probably associate Modern Quilting with a wide range of techniques, from modern traditionalism to minimalism to improvisation. As Modern Quilts become more prominent in mainstream quilt shows, Modern categories are increasingly common. Now, the question is, what does a section of a show look like when all of these varying modern styles come together?
To give you a better idea of how the category comes together as a whole, I’m sharing the entirety of the Modern Quilt Category for AQS Paducah QuiltWeek 2026.
The American Quilter’s Society (AQS) was among the first major mainstream quilt shows to add a Modern category in the Paducah show, and now all of their shows include a Modern category. Here is the category description for the show:
Wall Quilts – Modern: Width 40″ to 96″; Length 40″ or more. Quilts, made for display on a wall, using any technique, that are inspired by modern design, often using improvisational piecing or appliqué and including bold colors, high contrast, and simple shapes on neutral backgrounds. Expansive negative space may allow the quilting to take the forefront.
AQS Contest Rules for 2026
Photography
The AQS shows arrange the quilts in curtained bays, with a chain across the front to protect them. This means that the quilts on the right and left are photographed at a significant angle. I have done little to no editing of these photos, so you are seeing the quilts as you would have if you were at the show. Fortunately, this convention center has decent lighting (by convention center standards), so the color of the quilts is reasonably close to the actual items.
If you are interested in seeing all the quilts in the show straight on, a good catalog of the show quilts is available for purchase.
Modern Quilts From Paducah 2026
Below is the entire Modern category. The award-winning quilts, first, second, third, and honorable mention, are at the top, and the remaining quilts are shown in the order they were displayed in the show. This show organizes all quilts within each category alphabetically by the maker’s last name.
Enter Your Quilts
If you would like to see your Modern (or non-modern) quilt in an upcoming show, you can find entry information here.
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