Push past the pie, go a little beyond the canned jams and you’ll find the world of fiber at the Oklahoma State Fair.
I submit student work to the state fair - while looking at the creative arts submission information I learned I could enter myself into a mural competition AND submit crochet to the state fair! Thus my September because busy for the foreseeable future due to fair time festivities. I don’t get money but I get in a competitive spirit and push myself to improve my craft.
In 2024 I was participating in the 24 hour mural contest at the State Fair. The heat hit me so I took a break to walk around the air conditioned building and scope out my submitted pieces. Behind glass cases nestled in the corner of the building I found handmade blankets, baby clothes, parasols and clothing. I’ve heard of people entering in the fair but had no idea it extended past food and children’s art.
Spray Painting in the Summer Sun, 2024
7th Place Green Ribbon Blues
I can’t deny the lime green ribbon matched perfectly with the Ice Queen jacket color combinations. Yet, I felt insulted.
I told the story to my boyfriend about entering the fair but as my memory served I received a brown 11th place ribbon.
I did not keep the ribbon and would have rather received no ribbon. He tells me this is a strange way of thinking as getting 11th (or 7th) in Oklahoma is a big deal! I can’t morph my thinking away from the feeling of a participation ribbon. I can gracefully accept losing to superior craftsmanship but don’t give me consolation prize.
Yes, I was a sour sport. And still am. It’s Ice Queen Couture after all! But I’ve promised if I receive a ribbon this year, no matter the placement I will not dispose of the ribbon.
The Moon and Stars Baby Blanket I made for Rider. Baby of my youngest cousin. I thought it was better designed and built than my jacket. However it did not receive a ribbon and I felt very neutral about it. The baby blanket category is stiff competition! Lots of submissions and exquisite craftsmanship. Lucky babies.
2026 Blue Ribbon Submission
I’m throwing in my Margaret Square blanket! She is stunning, my most technical blanket and has taken me close to 50 hours to create. If any of my creations has a chance at a blue ribbon…It’s her!
Along with the Margaret Square blanket I am also submitting my 2025 Walking Blanket, Canalboat Blanket and Pizza Rat Purse.
Wish me luck! There is literally nothing to gain other than a ribbon.