Elevate your expertise in needlearts through the National Academy of Needlearts Judges’ Certification program and become a part of a distinguished community dedicated to excellence in needlework.

• Click here to view our list of active NAN-certified Judges.
• Click here to order the NAN publication, A Needleart Judge’s Reference.
• Click here to have your work evaluated by a NAN-certified judge.

The National Academy of Needlearts (NAN) offers a comprehensive Judges’ Certification program for individuals passionate about the art of needlework. This program is designed to develop proficiency in administering needlework exhibitions and constructively evaluating needleart. Candidates are mentored throughout their certification process, ensuring a thorough understanding and mastery of the necessary skills.

The Exhibition Administrator certification is a two-year program that trains candidates to administer needlework exhibitions and shows. This encompasses understanding various facets of hanging an exhibition as well as the judging process. The curriculum includes studies in the areas of needlework judging and art needlework history, as well as active participation in the hanging of needlework exhibits. The program is open to anyone with an interest in administering and hanging a needlework show; judging experience is not necessary.

The Judge certification is a rigorous two or three year program. Candidates are required to attend Judges’ Certification workshops held in conjunction with the annual Assembly for Embroiderers. Other requirements include reviewing a variety of books relating to needlearts, participating in judging on a trial basis in various venues and submitting written documentation of their work, and completing stitched samples. The culmination of this program consists of an open book written examination followed by a final interview with the Judges’ Certification Committee. The Judges’ Certification Program is open to any candidate who meets one of the following requirements:

• Teachers’ Certification from NAN
• Teacher Certification from another recognized needleart organization
• Degree in fine arts with needlework expertise
• Comparable qualifications and needlework expertise

The Master Judge certification is a prestigious two-year program for which candidates must be a certified Judge with at least one recertification. The candidate must research a specialized area of needlework different from their own area of expertise and give a presentation at NAN Assembly based on their research. Other requirements include writing a thesis, writing and publishing articles, administering a major needlework exhibition, and judging major needlework shows.

Anyone may audit the Judges’ Certification Workshop. Held the three days before Assembly, it is open to anyone interested in gaining insight into the judging process and/or improving their needlework skills. This workshop offers a valuable understanding of what judges look for when evaluating needlework, making it a beneficial experience for both aspiring judges and needlework enthusiasts.

For additional information about any aspect of the Judges’ Certification Program or about auditing the Judges’ Certification Workshop, please contact the Director of Judges’ Certification.