Woolcraft at the Australian Sheep & Wool Show

Before posting your Entry Form:

• Read the Conditions of Entry carefully, before selecting which categories best suit your set of skills.
• Check entry closing date.
• Check the glossary of terms for any definition you might need to clarify. If you are still doubtful, email Dot Vallance (dotv5@optusnet.com.au).
• If you want your entry returned to you by mail, follow the instructions on the Entry Form.

When packaging your Exhibit:

• Ensure your garment/article has met the fibre requirements.
• Put all the samples (fibre and yarn) required for your entry neatly and appropriately labelled into the sample bag.
• Attach the exhibit ticket and sample bag with a safety-pin.
• No names are to appear on any entry.
• Include a photo and storyboard with your entry if required or you feel it would enhance your entry.
• Check the Conditions of Entry again.
• If posting your entry, send by Registered Mail and allow time for your entry to arrive in time.
• Packaging must be sturdy enough to care for your article to and from the show.

Handspun:

• Carefully check your WPI (see Glossary of Terms) and skein weight.
• Spinning needs to be consistent, even and the plying technique should suit the fibre.
• Provide quality fleece samples.
• Tie skeins with matching handspun and tuck the ends in neatly.
• Creative/novelty/art yarn must be three (3) distinct methods. Three (3) variations in plying are not distinct but similar.
• Add explanatory notes for the judges if anything may be potentially unclear (e.g. purposely done randomness).

Garments and Other Articles:

• Pay attention to the finish of your article/garment.
• There should be no loose threads.
• Seams should match.
• Garment sleeve lengths should match, buttons should match the buttonholes, and the head should be able to go through the neck hole.
• Accessories (e.g. buttons, zippers) should match as best as possible with the garment.
• Pattern structure should be regular.
• Weave extra length if you intend to match a pattern.
• If you have deliberately done something non traditional (e.g. dark coloured Aran jumper or an irregular pattern include an explanation for the judge).
• Judges can turn an entry upside down and inside out. They can hold entries up to the light to check tension changes.
• Judges can use your sample to do a fibre content burn test.

Judges:

• Judges are volunteers who do their very best. They appreciate the work you have done and know how it feels to put yourself out there.
• Judges love to see a range of items and hate disqualifications.
• Judges have a limited amount of time so appreciate your entry in the best possible condition with supplemental information if appropriate.
• There are two to three judges for every category and judges only judge the same category for two consecutive years.