By Payton Tholstrup
Photos courtesy of Einstein Sewing Workshop
Cynthia Ensign, owner of Cynthia’s Attic, and Cyndy Monier, owner of Einstein Sewing Workshop, are teaming up to bring something new to Miltonvale’s Tootlefest this year: a T-shirt makeover contest.
Tootlefest, a three-day celebration, is an annual tradition in Miltonvale. Held at the end of August each year, this year’s celebration will be from August 22nd – August 24th.
The Chamber of Commerce had a lot of past Tootlefest t-shirts that Ensign was trying to get rid of. She just wasn’t sure what to do with them. That was until Monier came up with an idea: why not have a contest where people can give these T-shirts a makeover and turn them into something new?
Contestants can purchase an old Tootlefest T-shirt from Ensign and Monier for just $5. There’s no rule for how many t-shirts can be used, but a variety of colors and choices are available.
“It’s a way to have fun, be creative, and make something out of an old t-shirt,” said Monier, adding that upcycling is a big trend right now.
The contest is divided into three age groups: 8-13 years old, 14-18 years old, and 19 years old and up. There will be two judges, both of whom are familiar with sewing and creativity. Winners will be selected during Tootlefest.
“Judging criteria is mostly based on creativity and neatness of the project,” Monier said.
It also needs to be evident that a Tootlefest T-shirt was part of the makeover project. First-place winners in each age group will receive a cash prize of $75.
The community will also have the chance to vote on their favorite creation from 9 am – 1 pm on Saturday, August 23rd. Projects will be on display at Einstein Sewing Workshop, at 20 West Spruce Avenue in Miltonvale. The one with the most votes will win the people’s choice award along with a cash prize.
Completed projects can be brought to Cynthia’s Attic at 20 West Ash Avenue in Miltonvale beginning August 11th through August 15th from 10 am – 3 pm, or by appointment (785-427-6018).
Both Ensign and Monier are hopeful that the contest will grow and become an annual Tootlefest tradition that everyone can enjoy.
