From a 16th Century French etiquette manual, transcribed by George Washington, and embellished here at Contemporary Quilt Art, (spelling all George’s)
When you meet with one of Greater Quality than yourself,
George Washington, man of etiquette and style
Stop, and retire, especially if it be at a Door or any Straight place to give way for him to Pass.
(Allow the President of the Quilt Guild to enter the meeting room first.)
In Speaking to men of Quality do not lean nor Look them full in the Face, nor approach too near them, at lest Keep a full Pace from them.
(Don’t crowd too close or selfishly try to get the attention of the famous quilter, she who must go through the door ahead of you.)
In visiting the Sick, do not Presently play the Physician if you be not Knowing therein.
(Be cautious when informing another quilter why her her work suffers, and when diagnosing how to remedy the weakness.)
Strive not with your Superiors in argument, but always Submit your Judgement to others with Modesty.
(It’s no use arguing with quilt show judges after the ribbons have been awarded, but you could make helpful suggestions to improve the process for next year.)
Run not in the Streets, neither go too slowly nor with Mouth open, go not Shaking yr Arms, kick not the earth with yr feet, go not up on the Toes, nor in a Dancing fashion.
(Walk sedately to your quilting function.)
civil and decent behaviour
Let your Conversation be without Malice or Envy, for ‘tis a Sign of a Tractable and Commendable Nature: And in all Causes of Passion admit Reason to Govern instead.
(Be nice, let your kind and calm nature shine, don’t get carried away and be sensible.)
Take no Salt or cut Bread with your Knife Greasy.
(When on quilting retreat, be mindful of others.)
Shew Nothing to your Friend that may Affright him.
(Keep the photo of The World’s Ugliest Quilt under lock and key if you care about the sanity of your friend.)
In the Presence of Others, Sing not to yourself with a humming Noise, nor Drum with your Fingers or Feet.
(When at a guild meeting, a quilting bee or exhibit, don’t annoy other quilters.)
don't give up
When a man does all he can though it Succeeds not well, blame not him that did it.
(If your friend worked very hard on her quilt, but didn’t win the blue ribbon in the Quilt Show, don’t say it’s her fault.)
