Challenger Application

Would you like to compete in the Battle of the Stitches? Every round of the Battle is built around one crochet stitch and one theme, and every round needs a fresh line-up of designers willing to take that stitch somewhere unexpected. Applications are read before each new round is announced.

Who we are looking for. Crochet designers who publish their own patterns — whether that is a handful of designs or a full shop — and who can write a clear, tested pattern to a deadline. You do not need a large following to be selected. What matters is that the design shows the challenge stitch off well and that the written pattern is something another crocheter can follow.

What taking part involves.

• Two to three weeks to design, crochet and photograph one original piece.
• The challenge stitch stays dominant in the design; other stitches may support it.
• Unmarked photographs are submitted for judging, and designs stay unseen until the winners are announced.
• Up to three testers may see the work in progress, and they keep it to themselves.
• The finished pattern is published in the round's eBook alongside the other challengers.

How to apply. Send the name of your design business, a short note about the kind of crochet you love to design, and two or three photographs of patterns you have released. Tell us which upcoming round you would like to be considered for. The full rules for the competition — judging, prizes and publishing — are set out on the Become A Challenger page, and it is worth reading them before you apply.

Not ready to compete yet? Fans are just as welcome: the Designs & Voting page opens for votes at the end of every round, and the Winners Circle collects the designs that took the top spot.