A First-Time Quilt Entry Can Be a Winner

Thinking about entering your first AQS Quilt Contest? You're in good company—and you might just go home with an award.

The First Time Entry category is designed especially for quilters who are new to AQS contests. Whether you've just finished your first show-ready quilt or you're finally ready to take the plunge, this category is your perfect starting point.

Who’s Eligible?

You are—if you’ve never entered an AQS Quilt Contest before.

• First Time Entry is allowed once, with an asterisk. You can enter the First Time Entry category at Paducah and enter as First Time Entry in one of the AQS satellite shows (Daytona Beach, New England, or Lancaster) as long as you haven’t entered before.

• Once you’ve entered a satellite show, you’re no longer eligible for First Time Entry at any other satellite show—but you’re still eligible to enter at Paducah if you haven’t yet done so.

Quilt Requirements

We welcome all styles and quilting techniques! Just make sure your entry meets these basic guidelines:

• Size: 30" to 84" in both width and length

• Techniques: Any technique is welcome—traditional, modern, art, mixed media, and more

• Quilting: May be quilted by hand, by machine, or a combination of

Real Stories from First-Time Entrants

A Magical Debut in Daytona

In 2025, Linda Elise Crouch of Victoria, Australia, entered her first-ever AQS contest in Daytona Beach with her quilt, A MAGICAL WINTER GARDEN. Not only was it her debut entry, but it earned the Best Stationary Machine Workmanship Award. Her intricate stitching and magical theme captivated judges and visitors alike.

Making Waves in Paducah

That same year in Paducah, Claire Wallace of Gauteng, South Africa entered Gracious Blues in the Small Wall Quilts: 1st Entry in an AQS Paducah Quilt Contest category. The result? She won the Best Wall Movable Machine Quilted award. Her striking use of color and elegant machine quilting stood out among the competitors.

Ready to Enter?

You don’t have to be famous or even fearless to enter your quilt. All you need is a passion for quilting and a finished piece you’re proud of. The First Time Entry category is a welcoming space to share your work, connect with quilters, and maybe even take home a ribbon.

Visit our Contest page to learn more.

We're nearing the end of the 2025 AQS Contest season—don’t miss your chance to enter the Lancaster QuiltWeek Contest by May 8, 2025!

Enter here.

Our 2026 Contest Season opens June 3, 2025. So get your quilts ready!

We can’t wait to see what you create.