The annual Hand & Lock Prize for Embroidery was established in 2000 to give new designers, interested in embroidery, the opportunity to showcase their talents and gain vital exposure and experience. In recent years it has been expanded to include textile artists, interior and accessory designers as well as those working in fashion. The competition strives to highlight the exquisite craftsmanship and skill that goes into this intricate craft and bring together the whole embroidery community to celebrate.
Now, the Prize receives thousands of entries from fashion students and talented embroiderers from all over the world. Former winners have gone on to start their own successful businesses, work in the industry for top design houses and even join the team here at Hand & Lock. A significant and important part of the London fashion calendar, the annual prize-giving event at the Bishopsgate Institute, now draws industry professionals, designers and influencers keen to see the latest embroidery talent.
Each year the Prize opens with an online registration followed by a two month window when entrants can upload evidence of their work. Each year entrants are encouraged to follow a specially written brief and, if selected for the second round, work with an expert mentor to perfect their submission in time for a final live judging event.
