The Hand & Lock Prize for Embroidery, established in 2000, is a prestigious global competition showcasing exceptional embroidery talent. Fashion and textile art categories attract entries from designers, artists and creators from over 40 countries, all celebrating intricate craftsmanship.
“My first highlight was the first Prize giving held at the Knitting and Stitching show in 2001 - we only had 5 entrants and little did we know, it was only the beginning… It has since grown to over 500 per year from at least 40 different countries”
Alastair Macleod
Each year, the competition opens with online registration and a submission window, followed by a mentoring program where finalists refine their entries under guidance from industry professionals. The event culminates in a prize-giving featuring a live judging panel that selects winners from 24 finalists plus several Associate Awards.
The prize-giving has grown from a small studio gathering to a prominent industry exhibition. Past winners have launched successful businesses or joined top fashion houses such as Alexander McQueen, Richard Quinn and Chanel, cementing the competition's role in nurturing new talent.
