OUR TRADITION CONTINUES!

Flaunt Your Design Skills at
The AKS Gathering 2026
Minneapolis / St. Paul

Enter the Lanyard Challenge!

All AKS Gathering 2026 attendees are invited to participate in our traditional Lanyard Challenge by creating and submitting a handmade kumihimo lanyard. 
Let you imagination shine using your favorite braid structures, colors, fibers and/or beads to create something uniquely yours.  
All entries must feature a braided structure and be functional as a lanyard.
e.g. there must be an incorporated clip to hang a badge. 
Winners will receive a special prize !!
  • Categories are:
    • Fiber – featuring 80% fiber in your design
      • ~ Explore colors, textures, and braid structures to showcase the beauty of fiber kumihimo.
    • Beads – featuring 80% beads in your design
      • ~ Let your creativity shine with unique bead choices, patterns, and braided designs.
  • Judges will determine one winning piece from each category PLUS one “Peoples’ Choice” award that is voted on by attendees.
    • Entry forms will be available at Registration
    • Lanyards with entry forms must be submitted by 8:00PM Wednesday Sept 22, 2026.
    • Winners will be announced during lunch on Thursday, Sept 23, 2026.
    • Late arrivals can contact Katherine Buenger or Kristen MacDowell until 8:00pm.

Questions??  Send an email to gathering@amksoc.org