What date is the festival
The Scottish Tea Cosy Festival takes place on the Saturday before National Tea Cosy Day.
For 2027, the festival will be held on 22 May.
Where is the festival held
The festival itself will be held at The Merse, Lochancroft Ln, Wigtown, Dumfries and Galloway, DG8 9JA.
How much does it cost to enter the festival
Entry to the festival is free.
Refreshments are available for donations to the chosen charity.
Who can enter a tea cosy
Anyone can enter, except professional designers. Professional designers may still submit a tea cosy for the charity auction.
What categories can I enter
Child (16 and under), Knitted, Crocheted, Sewn, and Miscellaneous.
Can I enter more than one tea cosy
Yes. You can enter as many tea cosies as you wish, and you may enter multiple categories.
Each tea cosy must have its own application form.
What size or type of tea cosy can I submit
Tea cosies may be small, medium or large.
They can be traditional over‑cosies or designs with spout and handle openings.
Can I use a pattern
Yes. You may use a pattern in full, in part, or not at all.
Please disclose pattern use on the application form.
What condition should my tea cosy be in
Tea cosies must be clean, free from strong smells, and free from hazardous materials.
What is the closing date for entries
The closing date is 1 April 2027.
How do I submit my tea cosy
You can submit it in person at Spinning a Yarn wool shop, or post it to the festival address.
All entries must include a completed application form.
Postal entries will receive an email confirmation when their cosy arrives.
Is there an entry fee
Submitting a tea cosy is free.
If you submit a tea cosy for free, it will be entered into the charity auction after judging.
You will only be charged if you choose to have your tea cosy returned.
Can I have my tea cosy returned
UK entrants may request their tea cosy back.
A cheque or postal order for £15 per cosy is required to cover administration, postage, and a donation to the charity.
International entries cannot be returned and will automatically go into the auction.
What happens to the tea cosies after judging
All tea cosies are entered into the Tea Cosy Auction to raise money for the chosen charity.
How is judging carried out
Three judges will assess all entries on the day. Their decisions are final.
What are the judging criteria
- Functionality
- Craftsmanship and construction
- Creativity and originality
- Design and aesthetic appeal
- Technical difficulty
- Sculptural quality
- Presentation
- Innovation
- Overall delight factor
Is there a public vote
Yes. Visitors will receive one voting slip each to vote for the Public Best in Show.
Are there prizes
Yes. Each category awards 1st, 2nd and 3rd place, plus a Best in Show prize.
Confirmed prizes will be listed on the Prizes page.
Is there anything else happening on the day
Yes. A craft fair will run alongside the festival.
If you would like a stall, please email us.
A donation to the charity is requested for each stall, and a table, chair(s), and a cup of tea will be provided.