The Museum of Glass in Tacoma, WA is combining a competition with a fund raising auction. Sounds like a good time for glass artists looking for a challenge. The Glass Quarterly blog brought this to my attention and I thought I’d share it with all of you, especially if you might be interested in applying. The deadline is June 2nd so hurry up. Entries will be selected for the auction and the top three will be awarded prizes. The grand prize receives $10,000, the New/Emerging artist receives $5,000, and the People’s Choice receives $2,500. Sounds like everyone wins…the museum, the artists and the party goers.
Have you read?
Primrose and Bee Punch Needle Pattern from DMC
If you’ve been looking for a punch needle project that’s both cute and calming, let me introduce you to the Primrose & Bee Punch Needle Pattern from DMC. It’s got everything I love in a design—playful florals, a touch of nature, and just enough charm to make you smile every time you glance at it.
This pattern is part of DMC’s free collection (yep, free!), and it’s ideal for both beginners and seasoned punch needle crafters. The scene is simple but sweet: a soft primrose flower in bloom with a happy little bee buzzing around. It has that slightly whimsical, handmade look that works beautifully in a modern or cottagecore-inspired home.
The instructions are easy to follow, and because it’s DMC, you’re getting clear thread recommendations and a helpful diagram that breaks down the steps. It’s designed for chunky yarn or DMC’s Nova Vita eco-friendly threads, but you could absolutely adapt it with what you already have in your stash.
I love that punch needle gives you quick, textured results—you don’t need to commit weeks of stitching to see something take shape. This pattern would look gorgeous stretched in a hoop or sewn into a mini cushion. Honestly, it’s cute enough to gift, and small enough to finish in a couple of evenings.
My favorite part? That fuzzy little bee! It adds such a fun 3D element to the design, and it’s a great excuse to practice your loop consistency and texture techniques if you’re still learning.
If you’re feeling crafty and want something cheerful that won’t overwhelm your to-do list, this little project is the one. Download it, print it, and enjoy the buzz of a good stitch session.
Let me know if you punch it up—I’d love to see your version!