In 2008 I entered my work in its first competition--the NC State Fair. I entered 10 baby items. 6 won First Place Ribbons, and 4 Second Place (Red) Ribbons. All of the entries were designed by me.
The Blue Ribbon winners were: Christening Gown, Infant Sweater, Baby Boy's Romper, Baby Doll/Newborn size dress with Bonnet, and two Doll Outfits.
The Red Ribbon winners were: Pink Bonnet, Booties, Bib, and Toddler Dress.
To my surprise, the Christening Gown took first over another gown crocheted from a Leisure Arts pattern. It was this gown, that gave me the encouragement I needed to publish my crochet patterns. An offer was made to purchase the gown, which I had to decline now that it had sentimental value.
In 2009 I entered the State Fair for a second time. This time I earned 7 First Place & 3 Seconds. Two of the items, a star blanket and amigurumi monkey, were free patterns I found on the internet. The remaining items were designed by me. This fair had two quite memorable moments. The Ladybug dress won first in the Crochet Designers division. I was disappointed the judges wouldn't let me include the hat in the display, and thought the dress looked plain without it. I was very happy to see the dress hold its own! The next surprise was attached to my thread baby bonnet. It was tedious to make, and it being the last project completed, I felt a little rushed. Now, the judges give you very little (if any) feedback on entries. This can be frustrating to those who don't win. So you can imagine how excited I was to see just one word "Fabulous" written on the entry tag of my bonnet! Happily, the Easter Grace Dress you see here also won blue. Sadly, the Yellow Purse (that bears a resemblance to Sponge Bob's brother) was accidently placed in the weaver's category and was disqualified. A judge, however, was kind enough to write "very cute" on the back of that tag. No matter that it didn't win. I knew a little girl that was only too happy to use it!
Please use my patterns, and enter the garments as you like. Do let me in on the good news, and of course, judging feedback!
