YOU can enter Queensland’s Royal Show!

It’s almost EKKA time again, and Beads N Crystals is the proud sponsor of the Beading categories in the Creative Art & Craft Competitions.

The Royal Queensland Show offers monetary prizes along with a certificate and a place ribbon for first, second and third place in each class. This year we’ve boosted the prize with Beads N Crystals gift vouchers, bringing the total prize pool to $645 value for the three beading classes!

Having a place in the competition can be great exposure, complete with bonus bragging rights! You could be an RNA award winning designer!

Beading – Open

Class 5 – Wearable Bead Work

- 1st Prize $25 + $100 Beads N Crystals Gift Voucher
- 2nd Prize $15 + $50 Beads N Crystals Gift Voucher
- 3rd Prize $10 + $30 Beads N Crystals Gift Voucher

Class 6 – Non-Wearable Bead Work

- 1st Prize: $25 + $100 Beads N Crystals Gift Voucher
- 2nd Prize: $15 + $50 Beads N Crystals Gift Voucher
- 3rd Prize: $10 + $30 Beads N Crystals Gift Voucher

Class 7 – Polymer Clay

- 1st Prize: $25
- 2nd: Prize $15
- 3rd: Prize $10

Beading – Junior

Class 8 – Be Creative – Any Article – Ages 16 and under

- 1st Prize: $25 + $75 Beads N Crystals Gift Voucher
- 2nd Prize: $15 + $40 Beads N Crystals Gift Voucher
- 3rd Prize: $10 + $20 Beads N Crystals Gift Voucher

Judges may also offer Highly Commended and Commended placings in each category.

Please check out the Ekka Competitions website to download the schedule and enter. Remember, the entry cutoff date of 5pm Friday May 24th 2024 to secure your entry place. The finished articles aren’t required until deliveries are accepted on July 30th and 31st. There’s not a lot of time to secure your place in the competition, but there is still plenty of time to finish making your piece.

Beads N Crystals sponsors three beading classes, but you may also find other classes of interest in the Art & Craft competitions. There are also many other categories like photography, painting, sculpture, baking and lots more. We’d love to see your work on show in at the Ekka this August!

Why Enter Beading Competitions?

Entering beading competitions such as this can help motivate and excite you to create a unique and special beading project and also provides a deadline to work towards.

Preparing for a competition requires time, effort, and dedication, which can help you improve your skills and push yourself to try new techniques. Take this as an opportunity to excel in a bead technique you already know, or learn something entirely new.

Gaining recognition through competing and winning a craft competition can help boost your status within the beading community. This can add a layer of skill and authority in a technique or style which may help boost your business or potentially lead to opportunities such as teaching or selling your work if you don’t already.

The Prizes are great with the addition of the Beads N Crystals gift vouchers. As a winner you’ll receive not only the certificate and ribbon with the associated bragging rights, but also the RNA prize money and the Beads N Crystals gift voucher which means only one thing! MORE BEADS!

Can you Sell your Entry? Can you Keep it?

You can elect to sell your entry at the Ekka. Simply name a price and if a buyer comes along, it will be sold by the show organisers. Sold pieces remain on display behind glass for the duration of the Ekka. Please refer to the RNA website for information on the sale process. Of course, many entrants will have their pieces marked “Not for Sale”. Some will ask a higher price if they don’t really want to sell it. That way it will either prevent a sale or collect a higher price, which also means you can buy LOTS MORE BEADS!

Want to know more?

Read the official Competitions Schedule for details on the classes, requirements and the full terms and conditions. Remember, Beads N Crystals is a sponsor of three of the competitions classes and is in no way affiliated with the EKKA or the RNA. Please contact the competitions department if you have any questions not answered by their website or the schedule.

Want to Enter?

Entries for the beading classes must be booked online via the RNA Competitions portal, but hurry. Entries strictly close at 5pm EST on Friday May 24th 2024.

Remember, that’s only the deadline to book a spot for your entry. There’s still time to complete your entry. Exhibits can be delivered in person to the stewards on Monday July 31st and Tuesday 1st August. Items can also be delivered to reception in person, via post or courier in the days prior to that. See the schedule for full details.

- Enter Before 5pm Friday May 24th 2024
- Deliver Finished Items by July 31st
- Collect Exhibits on August 22rd

Insider Tips for Winning Beading Competitions

Are you ready to take your beadwork to the next level and clinch that top prize? Here are some insider tips to help you stand out in beading competitions:

1. Attention to Detail:

When it comes to beadwork, the smallest details can make the biggest difference. Take your time to ensure every bead is securely in place and that your stitches are neat and even. Judges appreciate craftsmanship, so pay attention to every aspect of your piece.

2. Quality Materials:

Using the correct findings and high-quality materials can increase your chances of scoring that top prize. Invest in sturdy threads that won’t fray or break easily, and choose findings that complement your design.

Judges are well versed in quality materials and can spot attention to detail in the careful selection of seed beads and other materials. Quality materials not only enhance the appearance of your piece but also contribute to its durability and longevity.

3. Neat and Tidy Finish:

Presentation matters. Make sure your beadwork has a complete, neat, and tidy appearance. Trim any loose threads, tidy up any messy edges, glue your knots, and ensure that your piece is free from any visible flaws. A polished finish demonstrates your commitment to excellence and attention to detail.

4. Effective Display:

How you present your entry can significantly impact its chances of success. Consider displaying your beadwork on a suitable stand, such as a display bust, to showcase its beauty and intricacy. Alternatively, use props like cones or Perspex stands to ensure your creation is seen as you intended. A well-presented entry not only catches the eye but also communicates professionalism and pride in your work.

5. Unique and Uncommon Designs:

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and experiment with unique patterns and designs. Judges are often drawn to originality and creativity, so consider exploring less conventional motifs and themes in your beadwork. Steer clear of “paint-by-numbers” patterns and purchased kits, instead strive to create pieces that showcase your individual style and artistic vision.

6. Sometimes Less is More:

In the world of beadwork, sometimes less truly is more. While it can be tempting to embellish your piece with an abundance of beads and intricate details, remember that well executed simplicity can be just as impactful. Focus on refining your design to its essential elements, allowing each bead to shine and contribute to the overall beauty of the piece. A well-executed and elegantly understated design can often leave a more lasting impression than a cluttered and over-the-top creation.

By incorporating these insider tips into your approach, you’ll be well-positioned to impress judges and increase your chances of winning beading competitions. Keep experimenting, refining, and pushing the boundaries of your creativity, and you’ll be well on your way to winning accolades for your stunning bead creations!