The Exemplary 2026
2nd Place, Professional Original

It seemed only natural that my snowpeople would need a few little ones to complete their family. I designed Lil Sparks to help Mr. and Mrs. Sparkles complete their family—and as a bonus, it added another piece I could display after the holiday season. They certainly brighten the winter months.

Like Mr. and Mrs. Sparkles, these young Sparks are filled with fun stitches and techniques, including beaded snowflakes, Bargello, padded work, Colonial knots, Turkey Work, Cross Stitch, Double Criss-Cross Hungarian, Jaipur Stitch, Modified Mosaic Square, Diagonal Couching, Ashley Variant, Palace Pattern, and Chain Stitch.