Desert Guilds Quilt Show 2026
The biennial Desert Guilds Quilt Show put on by Coachella Valley, Cactus SewAbles and Pass Patchers will be held on Friday, March 6 and Saturday, March 7 at the Pavilion in Palm Springs. Save those dates along with Thursday, March 5th which is set up day.
Guild members -- it is time to start planning for your entry in the main quilt category, miniature quilts, and challenge quilts. Also think about what items you can make for the Guild's boutique and whether you have any quilts you would like to sell at the show to benefit both you and the guilds that put on the show.
Information on the Challenge and Miniature entries for the 2026 show is below.
“THE PAINT CHIP CHALLENGE”
Guidelines: This challenge is based on the paint chips found in every home improvement store. Any color of paint chip can be your inspiration- a single-color chip, a monochromatic strip colored light to dark, or a strip of paint chips with multiple colors. The only requirement is that at least 50% of your quilt must include fabrics echoed by your paint chip (or strip) selection. Grab multiple samples of your chosen chip- one must be included on your application, and one attached to your challenge piece.
YOUR QUILT MAY BE TRADITIONAL, MODERN, OR ART; PIECED, APPLIQUE, OR SOMETHING NEW; AN ESTABLISHED PATTERN OR AN ORIGINAL DESIGN.
!.). 50% of the quilt must incorporate your selected paint chip(s) color
2.) The finished quilt must have a perimeter between
60 and 120 inches
3.) The quilt must have three layers stitched together with finished edges. It will be hung using pins on a fabric wall. Embellishments should not extend more than ½ inch from the surface. A sleeve is optional.
4.) Include the paint chip or strip that inspired your challenge on the Challenge entry form. (Remember 2 paint chips will be submitted-one on the application and one on your quilt.)
5) YOUR NAME, TITLE OF THE CHALLENGE PIECE, AND GUILD NAME MUST BE ON THE BACK OF THE PIECE. This may be on a label or written directly on the piece. No paper labels.
Miniature Quilt Guidelines
Desert Guilds Quilt Show 2026
You must be a member of one of the three guilds to submit an entry in either of the categories. You may submit more than one entry in one/both of the categories below.
Two types of miniature quilts shall be displayed:
- Mini Quilt: Often defined as a small version of a full sized quilt. the size of individual blocks cannot exceed 3 inches. Entry may be a whole cloth quilt. Maximum perimeter is no larger than 72 inches.
- Small Art Quilt: can be designed with mixed media and must have a fabric background. Maximum perimeter can not exceed 72 inches.
No hard framed artwork will be accepted.
Miniature Ribbons – Viewer’s Choice
- Viewers will choose one for each category: Mini Quilt and Small Art Quilt.
- One Viewer’s Choice Ribbon will be given to the top entry in Mini Quilt category and another ribbon to the top entry in the Small Art Quilt category.
For information on the guidelines for the Miniature and Art Miniature entries please download the form below.
Also download an entry form.