QuiltCon is a vibrant celebration of creativity, innovation, and the enduring magic of thread and fabric. Each year, thousands of quilters submit their meticulously crafted works, hoping to secure a coveted spot in the show. Yet, with limited space, many stunning quilts don’t make the cut—not for lack of talent or vision, but simply due to the sheer volume of extraordinary submissions.
Enter the #QuiltConReject hashtag: a heartwarming, uplifting tradition transforming disappointment into pride. Over the years, this Instagram showcase has become a virtual gallery of remarkable quilts that, despite not being accepted into the show, still deserve their moment in the spotlight.
This year, we invited quilters who created their quilts with Aurifil threads to share their stories. The response was overwhelming, with makers eager to showcase their masterpieces. Each quilt represents hours of dedication, creativity, and a deep love for the craft.
As we count down to QuiltCon, we’re thrilled to present these incredible works. Let’s celebrate the artistry, the stitches, and the stories behind these #QuiltConReject quilts—because every quilt has a tale worth telling, and every maker deserves to be seen and celebrated. Enjoy this virtual gallery of quilts that may not be hanging in the show, but are undeniably worthy of admiration.
Karen Gradischer ~ Birds of Different Feathers Flock Together
Aurifil Threads used: 12 wt for topstitching center dots, 40wt for piecing, 40wt for black vertical quilting.

Audrey Clark ~ “No.” Quilt
Aurifil Threads used: 50wt dove grey for piecing, 50wt white and black for quilting.

Lynett Muhaso ~ Lily Petal
Aurifil Threads used: 50wt 2745 for piecing and 50wt 2600 for quilting.

Lynett Muhaso ~ Lily Vista
Aurifil Threads used: 50wt 2600.

Tina Hader ~ Precious Water
Aurifil Threads used: 50wt 2600, 4655, 2770, 1114, 6732

Donna Blalock ~ Gedankenkarussell: Insomnia

Alyssa Kolski ~ Parterre
Aurifil Threads used: Hand sewn with 50wt 2423, 2720, 2260

Lindsay ~ Butterfly
Aurifil Thread used: 40wt

Susan Eiseman Levitin ~ Earth, Air, Water, Fire
Aurifil Threads used: 50wt 2600.

Krista Hennebury ~ The Positives and Negatives of Garment Sewing
Aurifil Threads used: 50wt piecing & quilting; 80wt 2783 applique; 12wt 2024 (indigo dyed) French knots.

Molly Wardlow ~ Alice Taught Me
Aurifil Threads used: 50wt

Lou Orth ~ Gather and Sew
Aurifil Thread used: 50wt 2600.

Betsy Verrico ~ Sampler Spree
Aurifil Threads used: 50wt 2024.

Melanie Snell ~ Estrogen
Aurifil Threads used: 50wt2600, 1158; 80wt 2630, 2255.

Ashelyn Downs ~ Disregulate
Aurifil Threads used: Various 50wt thread colors.

We hope you’ve savored your digital journey through these stunning quilts. If any have caught your eye, click through for more details about the creators and share your top pick in the comments below. Happy quilting!
** Shared with the knowledge that there are far more quilts than shown that used Aurifil threads. If we missed you this time around, be sure to keep tagging us to let us know what you’ve used so we have the opportunity to celebrate your work.
Thank you for this beautiful quilting exhibition of photos.