The theme for the 2026 Golden Needle Awards is Red, White and Blue! The awards will be on display at our 2026 National Seminar Wish Upon a Stitch, in Orlando, Florida.
Three judges will use the following judging criteria for each entry. All awards are based on the judges’ evaluations, with the exception of Judge’s Choice, which is a personal pick. The criteria are:
- Aesthetic quality. Aesthetic design includes the relationships with the elements and principles of design (balance, color, repetition, pattern, scale, shape, and value).
- Complexity. How difficult was this piece to finish?
The type of embroidery or other factors may be involved in the execution. - Application of materials. Do the materials used in the composition support the design and its concept?
- Concept. Does this entry have a cohesive artist statement or reflection of the theme and its relationship to the design and execution of the entry?
- Form. Is the intention of the entry clear and supported by the design and materials?
- Innovation. Is the entry successful? The entry may be an original, adaption or non-original. Is there a clever twist to make the entry a successful design?
- Professional quality. Is the entry neat and clean? Does it show skill?
- Use of the needle. This is the visual percent of the entry that is stitched. How much is stitched with the needle?
We are looking forward to seeing your entry this year. Only one entry per EGA member! Your entry may be up to 18″ x 18″ (45.72cm x 45.72cm) and has to have been finished within the last five years. Deadline for entries is August 1, 2026. More information about Golden Needle Awards can be found at egausa.org/goldenneedleawards.
Learn More | Submit Your Entry
Photos: 2025 Bobbie Pilling and Golden Needle Awards | 2023 Golden Needle Awards | 2022 Golden Needle Awards | 2021 Golden Needle Awards
