Embroidery:


In the Details

An intricate embroidered piece takes Grand Champion in the 35th annual Impressions Awards competition.

By Marcia Derryberry, Editor in Chief; Michael Pallerino and Jennifer A. Morrell, Contributing Writers


"Soldier" by Quality Punch, Torrance, Calf. Grand Champion; Grand Champion: Embroidery; First Place: Digitizing Artistry

February 26, 2014

There’s always something new to see when we hold our annual Impressions Awards competition, and this year was no exception. From screen printed production pieces to fashion items, the 2013 Impressions Awards submissions offered an array of unique and detailed designs from all of the apparel decorating processes. This year marked the 35th annual Impressions Awards, and it represents our showcase of the industry’s  best designs from decorators of all sizes and experience levels. The entries were judged September 2013 at the Fort Worth Imprinted Sportswear Shows (ISS) event.

The Grand Champion winner was award-winner alumnus Quality Punch, Torrance, Calif. Combining intricate detailing with an innovative use of color for shading, the entry, “Soldier,” is an excellent example of this industry’s top-notch capabilities.

We were again pleased to see the increased number of first-time decorators entering the competition, with some even gaining top honors. The creative drive of the decorators who entered, combined with the array of categories for the different processes, means everyone had a shot at winning. We also were glad to see so many different innovative decorating techniques used.

Winning an Impressions Award is just the beginning for the designs featured in this issue. In addition to coverage in our January print, digital and mobile app editions, we’ll showcase all of the winners at every ISS event this year, in six different regions of the country. The Impressions booth always is abuzz at ISS trade shows, with attendees checking out the awards display to get their own creative juices flowing.


Please download the attached PDF to see our complete feature on the winners. Additionally, we’ll be presenting the 2013 winners in our Impressions Awards & Design Galleries — located online at impressionsmag.com — throughout 2014. Be sure to check that often-updated portion of our website regularly for new galleries. Once the winners have been uploaded, we’ll present additional Impressions Awards entries in the galleries. This is an opportunity for decorators whose great designs that did not make the winners’ podium to get much-deserved kudos for hard work and excellent design execution.

It’s never too early to start thinking about this year’s competition; we take entries year round. We’ll have the official rules and entry form available on our website in May, but if you are interested in entering early, please contact Lauren Mitchell at lauren.mitchell@emeraldexpo.com for information.

Congratulations to the winners and thanks to all who entered last year. We’re proud to showcase the talent and creativity this innovative industry has to offer.