Every summer, county fairs roll out the red (and blue!) carpet for local talent, from expertly stitched quilts to grand champion livestock. But winning a blue ribbon isn’t just about showing up, it's about standing out.
And when you do win? That iconic rosette on your entry may just be from Hodges Badge Company, the largest manufacturer of award ribbons and rosettes in the United States. Since 1920, we’ve been helping fairs, horse shows, and livestock events celebrate achievements with beautifully crafted awards all proudly Made in the USA. Our rosettes are more than ribbons, they’re symbols of tradition, hard work, and pride.
Whether you're entering a pie, a painting, or leading a prize-winning heifer into the ring, here’s your guide to crafting, presenting, and winning like a pro. And if you do? You could even see your winning entry featured in the Hodges Badge 2026 Fair Cover Photo Contest!
🧵 Step 1: Pick the Right Category for Your Strengths
County fairs offer dozens of ribbon-earning opportunities, including:
- Arts & Crafts (quilting, needlework, woodworking, painting)
- Baking & Preserving
- Photography
- Livestock Shows (cattle, swine, goats, poultry, etc.)
- Horse Shows (halter classes, showmanship, pleasure, jumping)
💡 Tip: Read your fair’s handbook thoroughly, each category has specific rules and judging criteria.
Arts & Crafts
Baking & Preserving
Photography
Livestock Shows
Horse Shows
🐴 Step 2: Understand What Judges Are Looking For
In Creative Arts:
- Craftsmanship & attention to detail
- Creativity and originality
- Neatness and proper display
In Livestock & Horse Shows:
- Clean, well-conditioned animals
- Confident, calm handling
- Conformation, grooming, and ring behavior
- Professional attire and show ring etiquette
💡 Judges notice poise and preparation just as much as the project or animal itself.
🎨 Step 3: Presentation Is Key
In any division, how you present your entry makes a difference:
- Arts & crafts: Use clean mounts, polished finishes, and wrinkle-free presentation
- Livestock: Brush, clip, clean hooves, and arrive early for check-in
- Horses: Polished tack, clean attire, and a confident ride show respect for the show and the judge
💡 Double-check entry tags, forms, and animal health records before arriving.
📸 Step 4: Capture Your Winning Moment for a Bigger Spotlight
If you win any award from Hodges Badge Company this year whether it’s a blue ribbon, rosette, sash, or medal, why not share your achievement beyond the fairgrounds?
Enter the Hodges Badge 2026 Fair Cover Photo Contest!
We’re looking for real moments of celebration! Whether it’s a proud exhibitor and their livestock, a winning craft display, or a beaming young rider and their horse. Your award moment could be featured on the cover of our national catalog!
🏅 Final Thoughts: From Barn to Booth, Pride Wins Ribbons
Whether it’s a 1,200-pound steer or a 12x12 quilt square, every ribbon represents hours of dedication. The judges may hold the clipboard but the hard work starts with you.
And when you win, take a close look at your award: if it’s proudly stamped with the Hodges Badge Company logo on the back, you’re holding a piece of American-made fair history.
📸 Want inspiration before you submit your photo?
Check out past winners of the Fair Cover Contest to see what winning moments made it to print:
This year, make your fair experience unforgettable—and maybe even nationally recognized. Win that award, snap that shot, and share your story with the country.
🎡 Looking for award ideas for your fair?
Explore the full line of fair ribbons, rosettes, sashes, and more here: