Quilting and embroidery

When does a quilt become an embroidery and does it matter?

It matters because in this country at least we the Quilters Guild had to fight to get Patchwork and Quilting recognized as an independent subject from embroidery for City and Guilds. (Prior to this, quilting was just a small part of the embroidery course).

I know when I see works in an exhibition which is which but I've been trying to sort out in my mind which is which.
Three layers held together by stitch? (Lets not think coverlets, crazy quilts, tied quilts etc for the moment). This sound good until you see embroideries done on three layers.
I've been talking this over with friends, mulling it over, arguing different attitudes.

In my own mind, a quilt is quilted and the purpose of this stitch is to hold the three layers together and to add dimension to the fabric of the quilt. Whilst the aim should be to have good stitches, it's the 'puff' that matters. (This doesn't apply to the stitch used through just the quilt top)

In embroidery, it might have three layers (or more) but the three layers provide a foundation for the stitch. And it is the stitch which is paramount. (and there are cases where the three layers are just to comply with quilt show restrictions)

Is it important?

Yes, very. It's not happening so much in the USA or Australia but over here quilts are becoming embroideries. I don't know if it's because quilting has become such a big thing and embroiderers are getting the work in through the back door. Even the judges over here can be names in this other skill. They (embroiderers) can and do produce stunning work but should it be in our (quilter's) shows?

Please let me know what you think? And where your skills are coming from.

Now off to do the last bits of packing and then to the school for exam results, then hopefully off to the FOQ.
I will try to blog from my hotel if not you'll here from me again on Monday.