By Payton Tholstrup

Photos courtesy of Cynthia’s Attic

Business owners Cynthia Ensign of Cynthia’s Attic and Cyndy Monier of Einstein Sewing Workshop brought something new to Miltonvale’s Tootlefest this year: a T-shirt makeover contest.

Tootlefest, an annual tradition in the community, was August 22nd – August 24th.

Contestants purchased old Tootlefest t-shirts and gave them a makeover. Two judges selected the winners, with judging criteria being based on neatness and creativity.

First-place winners in each age group received a cash prize. Community members also got to vote on their favorite design for the people’s choice award.

The adult class winner was Mryna. She used a couple of T-shirts to construct a dress. “The sleeve hems are embellished with self-fabric fringe, with a tie belt completing the look,” said Monier.

The youth class prize was awarded to Tayla. Monier said, “She selected fabrics to coordinate with a t-shirt to construct a cute and very usable bag. The floral print is so cute mixed with the t-shirt and red pin dot fabric. The bag is lined with two pockets to keep the contents organized.”

The people’s choice award went to Bonnie, who used a black with white paw print design, complete with small red heart outlines. Monier said it’s a dress that any little girl would love to wear, adding that the full skirt and cap sleeves make for a cool summer look.

There were 13 entries in total.

Monier and Ensign agreed that the contest was a success and plan to continue this new tradition next year.

Ensign shared that there will be several changes next year, but that fun will still be the number one goal.