Bead Arts Awards 2023

Closed for Entries

Winner Announcements Coming Soon!

Artists of all levels are welcome to enter the Bead Arts Awards competition for the chance to gain recognition for their accomplishments and to show off their best beadwork. While we love dramatic beadwork, we’re also looking for bead contest entries with interesting stories, careful craftsmanship, or new twists on a technique. Show us what you can do!

Whether you begin with a sketch or simply start stitching, use this beading contest as inspiration for your next beaded jewelry design. Look at your stash with fresh eyes, revisit one of your favorite techniques, or enter a favorite beaded jewelry design that’s already in progress—or finished. We want to see your most creative and very best work using techniques and materials that inspire you.  

Beyond the inspiration that comes from entering a beading contest, the prizes and recognition are motivating, too! All winners of the Bead Arts Awards will be announced and featured at Bead Fest in Lancaster, PA. These awards highlight the best of the best, with an overall $750 cash prize for the Grand Prize Winner and a $250 cash prize to Category Winners.

Super Early Bird Deadline: March 31, 2023

Members: $15 per entry
Nonmember: $25 per entry

Early Bird Deadline: May 9, 2023

Members: $25 per entry
Nonmember: $35 per entry

Final Deadline: June 23, 2023

Members: $35 per entry
Nonmember: $45 per entry

Prizes & Awards

All winners will receive a one-year membership to Interweave Plus (a $49.99 value), a feature on Interweave.com, and a digital badge to use on your platforms.

Bead Embroidery

Bead embroidery is one of the most popular beading techniques—and it can be interpreted in so many ways! Whether you create a wearable design or an elaborate home accessory, we can’t wait to see your inspired bead embroidery beadwork. 

Beaded Sculpture

Beaded sculpture is one of our most popular categories, year after year. We’re continually inspired by the way beaded-sculpture artists create figurines, home décor, and other three-dimensional objects. Show us your off-loom beadweaving or meticulous gluing techniques

Bead Looming

Bead looming is a traditional form of beading that has evolved over the years to allow for many variations. Use your favorite beading loom to create a sensational wearable or non-wearable work of art. We love looming because it’s limitless!