Master Piece Award 2026
The Worshipful Company of Fan Makers received its Royal Charter in 1709. Like other companies in the City, it evolved a system of apprenticeships. Apprentices learned every aspect of fan making and before they could be admitted as a Freeman of the Company, they had to submit a test piece to a Senior Fan Maker for inspection. This became know as a “Master Piece”.
We have introduced this competition to encourage interest and innovation in the field of fan making. This competition is open to anyone but particularly those interested in fashion and arts and crafts.
The 2026 competition will open shortly. Please check back for details.
Sophia Mace
Winner 2024
Sophia Mace won the first Master Piece Award in 2024. Pictured here with the Lady Mayoress Florence King and Master Fan Maker Mike Lakin.
How to Enter
Entries should be emailed in the first instance to the Clerk of the Company clerk@fanmakers.com
Entries will be assessed by the Master of the Company and the Chairman and members of the Heritage Craft committee.
Entries will be assessed on their overall appearance, the design concept, materials used, mechanics, aesthetics.
A short list of 5 will be compiled at which point entrants will be asked to send their fan for judging.
Key dates are as follows:
1st April: closing date. Entries received after this date will not be considered.
1st May: entrants on the short list will be notified
1st June: deadline for shortlisted fans to be sent to the company
1st July: winner will be notified
A prize of £500 will be awarded at the Worshipful Company of Fan Makers dinner on 22nd October 2026.