The NFWI Stylish Stitches Competition

Deadline for Entry Forms for the competition is now PAST. Good luck to all taking part! Below is a description of the competition and the guidance for entries.

The NFWI is pleased to announce a competition, sponsored by the UK Hand Knitting Association, to design and make an accessory in hand knitting or crochet using yarn distributed by members of the association. Pick up your needles and hooks. Be inspired to create something original with fascinating fibres and tantalising textures in sumptuous shades.

  • All entries must be accompanied by a short statement describing the inspiration for the work and an explanation if a pattern has been adapted. Please state the name of the retailer/s where the yarn was purchased and attach yarn bands. The competition is open to all WI members and the NFWI
    Associates who have paid their subscriptions for 2008.
  • Entries can either be posted or delivered by hand to the NFWI Unit at Denman College to arrive by 17 July 2009. Each entry should be clearly labelled with the class, competitor’s name, address, telephone number, WI and federation (details will be covered during judging to ensure absolute anonymity).
  • Judging will take place at Denman College in August 2009. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
  • Winning entries. The 10 winners in each class will be displayed at ICHF Sewing for Pleasure and Creative Stitches shows in autumn 2009/spring 2010 (details on www.theWI.org.uk, www.ichf.co.uk, and www.ukhandknitting.com)
  • Prize-winning entries will be retained by the NFWI for publicity purposes until March 2010. Unsuccessful entries may be collected from the NFWI Unit, or returned by post if postage is included with work sent.

While all reasonable care will be taken, the NFWI cannot be held responsible for any damage or loss to any entry submitted. Members may insure entries if they wish.

Entry guidelines

The competition is open for entry in four classes. Members may enter one item in as many classes as they wish.
Class 1
A hand knitted fashion accessory
Class 2
A hand knitted accessory for the home
Class 3
A crocheted fashion accessory
Class 4
A crocheted accessory for the home

Prizes for each class

1st: £125 of yarn
2nd: £75 of yarn
3rd: £50 of yarn
Seven runners-up in each class will receive a goodie bag to the value of £10

Entries must only use yarn distributed by members of the UK Hand Knitting Association. Stockist information will be issued on receipt of entry.

  • Designs should be original or adapted – no kits to be used
  • There is no stipulation on minimum or maximum size for any class but entrants should be aware that the judges will be looking for technical ability as well as creativity
  • Credit will be given for innovative use of skills
  • Entries will be judged according to the NFWI recommended marking scheme outlined in On With the Show, available from the ‘Stylish Stitches’ Administrator at the NFWI Unit, tel: 01865 391788 ext 279. Alternatively, order online via the WI website shop at www.theWI.org.uk/wipublications. 
The UK Hand Knitting Association is a charitable organisation, supported by the UK hand knitting yarn industry, dedicated to promoting the crafts of knitting and crochet.

Please find below the list of distributors and their contact details for stockists:

James C Brett - 01274 560381
Rowan Patons - 01484 681881/01325 394394
Designer Yarns - 01535 664222
Elle - 01376 573802
King Cole - 01535 650230
Norland Wools (do not produce yarn only patterns) - 0191 232 9722
Sirdar - 01924 371501
Stylecraft - 01535 609 798