Every month, artists in the Threadless community blow us away with their creativity, wit, and storytelling. Our Design Challenges are a chance for Artist Shop owners to push their limits, try something new, and get their work in front of new audiences. Today, we’re spotlighting the most recent Design Challenge winners—and trust us, these designs are worth a round of applause (and maybe a spot in your cart). Check them out and get inspired to join the next round of challenges!
The challenge: Use no more than four colors to create a visually striking design.
We encouraged artists to experiment with halftones, patterns, and smart layering to create rich imagery without going beyond the limit. The winning design, “CMYK BLAT” by camillechew, is a deliciously clever tribute to retro design and sandwich lovers alike. This playful composition features the ingredients of a bacon, lettuce, avocado, and tomato sandwich laid out in a pop-art-inspired style. Bold patterns like polka dots, stripes, and checkers give this four-color design extra depth and a nostalgic 1960s feel.
The challenge: Create bold, eye-catching artwork that would shine on our new Baseball Caps and Trucker Hats.
Artists had one goal—to turn heads and embrace this versatile, everyday accessory. The winning design, “This is my hat” by Coffee_man, is pure chaotic genius. It shows a panicked possum screaming “This is my haaaaat” in a way that’s both hilarious and weirdly relatable. It’s the kind of design that immediately grabs your attention.
The challenge: Step into a dreamlike world and create a surreal landscape full of impossible architecture, unexpected elements, and otherworldly vibes.
Artists let their subconscious take the lead. The winning piece, “Beyond the Walls” by EsterKay, is a mesmerizing labyrinth of rooms, staircases, and floating details. Ladders lead to nowhere. Giant eyeballs gaze from unexpected corners. People interact with the space in mysterious ways. The intricate design feels like a cross between M. C. Escher and a vivid dream—exactly the surreal escape we were hoping for.
Want to See Your Name Here Next Time?
Now’s your chance to participate! Submit your art to one of our current Design Challenges:
✦ Threadless Reimagined Challenge – Put your spin on our iconic logo for our 25th Anniversary.
✦ Causes Challenge – Design with purpose and raise money for a cause you care about. This month we’re focusing on Pride–themed designs!
Whether you want to flex your design muscles, support a meaningful cause, or just try something new, Design Challenges are a great way to get involved and grow your Artist Shop. Design Challenge winners receive cash prizes, Threadless gift codes, and prime promotion across our platforms.
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