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Member since 3/6/03
Posts: 1638
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Posted on: 9/26/08 11:34 PM ET
I have an idea that I've already implemented in my profile here and plan to add to my blog. The first sentence in my profile states that I welcome constructive criticism of my work. I think it would be so great if everyone did this. There have been many times that I've looked at something that wasn't right and wanted to say something but didn't because I didn't know if it would be appreciated.

I think that there are folks like myself who really want an honest opinion on my projects, whether it be regarding the fit, the suitability for my figure, its age appropriateness, etc. I'd rather know instead of going out in public looking like a fool. And I also know almost nothing about fit, so if someone told me something's amiss, I might be able to fix it.

Just an idea.
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Nikki Medved
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Member since 9/5/08
Posts: 709
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Posted on: 9/26/08 11:58 PM ET
In reply to candyo
Cool that you welcome it.

The thing is, constructive criticism is hard to give, and often hard to receive, because people often aren't taught how to do it well. People have a hard time offering criticism because they are afraid they will hurt feelings. I own and moderate a board that is devoted to giving constructive criticism on mosaic art, and I send out a list of suggestions for how to give it, so that the receiver remains open to the suggestions. One big one, is to start with a compliment before moving onto the part that needs improving.

For example: "your seams are crap" will merely hurt feelings and cause the listener to be less receptive - even if it's true. On the other hand, "I like your fabric and color choices, but I think you need to be more careful along the shoulder seams so that it lays flatter. Here's a trick I learned to get smooth shoulder seams..." is really useful, and is couched in such a way that the listener can remain open, and not get their feelings hurt.


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My (mostly) green sewing blog: http://NapkinLady.blogspot.com/
  
Member since 8/24/02
Posts: 12441
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Posted on: 9/27/08 0:03 AM ET
In reply to candyo
I really agree with you - I've always welcomed it. With others, I have this *if you don't have something nice to say* thing in my head. And you just don't know how it's going to be taken; especially where it concerns age appropriateness, etc.

Welcoming the criticism in the review itself is the way to go.
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Bernina 790 PRO, 570
Babylock Evolution


When life gives you green velvet curtains, make a green velvet dress.
  
Member since 4/16/04
Posts: 2060
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Posted on: 9/27/08 0:16 AM ET
You know, some people are new or maybe posting a first review and it may not go over well. A result that makes a beginning sewer deliriously happy may not satisfy an advanced sewer.

But I often want help with certain aspects of my clothes and will ask specifically in my review. E.g., "I'm not happy with the sleeves yet, does anyone have any suggestions?".

Many people need positive feedback to be encouraged to keep sewing. It's a fine line Candyo.
-- Edited on 9/27/08 0:23 AM --
  
Member since 7/30/02
Posts: 3232
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Posted on: 9/27/08 0:44 AM ET
I think the point Candyo was trying to make is that it would be good for people to clearly state if they want constructive criticism. I think that's a great idea. Because most of us do hold back - as everyone is pointing out - in case of hurt feelings.

Cathy - is there more of your 'constructive criticism guidelines??? Can you post it in full?

Mel

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Mel (Melbourne, Australia)
  
Member since 7/20/08
Posts: 10762
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Posted on: 9/27/08 8:24 AM ET
In reply to candyo
that's a great idea candyo! DH and I do that with the food we cook - we pick it apart, analyze it and try to get better and better. We often have a dish going that we keep making until we nail it.
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Mary


  
Member since 8/12/02
Posts: 2939
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Posted on: 9/27/08 8:28 AM ET
Even when I see a glaring error I rarely point it out on a public forum. I just find that it's too slippery a slope, and something that may have been posted with no malice intended can come across as harsh or snarky when read. That's the problem with the written word, as opposed to the spoken word, where inflections and tone make all the difference.

So if I see something wrong, I'll send an email or a PM to the person and ask if they want some constructive feedback and take it from there.
  
Member since 2/16/06
Posts: 3174
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Posted on: 9/27/08 9:14 AM ET
I agree with those who think that it's ok to offer constructive criticism if someone is asking for it, but otherwise, no.

Em
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From what others have said, the nasty message came from Fitting Woes, NOT Misc Hot Topics or the Civility thread.

  
Contest Committee
Member since 7/30/02
Posts: 8991
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Posted on: 9/27/08 9:42 AM ET
In reply to candyo
Quote: candyo
... The first sentence in my profile states that I welcome constructive criticism of my work. ...
Just an idea.

And a great one! Thank you for suggesting it.

Anne

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With a great wardrobe that's still in the flat-fabric stage.
  
Member since 7/23/07
Posts: 7276
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Posted on: 9/27/08 10:14 AM ET
I would start out on a positive note by asking for "any hints, tips and ideas on how to improve" rather than even introducing the word "criticism."
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http://bgballroom.wordpress.com to follow the progress on my next ballgown.
  
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