2024 was a year of bold ideas and imaginative leaps at Threadless. From whimsical memes to mythical legends, our Design Challenges invited artists from around the world to push their creative boundaries and bring fresh perspectives to a wide range of themes. These 2024 Design Challenge winners represent the best of the best—art that stood out, told a story, and brought each unique theme to life. Join us as we celebrate the designs that defined the year and explore the collections where creativity knows no bounds.
There’s no denying the charm of our feathered friends. This challenge was all about putting birds front and center, whether as a playful design element or the main star. Artists flocked to this theme with creative takes on bird-inspired designs, from minimalist illustrations to intricate avian patterns.
WINNER: “BIRDS” BY PPMID
Sugar rush, anyone? Candy Colors challenged artists to embrace vibrant, sweet-as-candy palettes. The result? A kaleidoscope of eye-catching designs brimming with playful energy and irresistible charm. These designs are as fun to look at as a bag of your favorite sweets.
WINNER: “BOOTY GUMMY BEARS” BY COFFEE MAN
This challenge brought timeless stories and mythical beings to life. Whether it was legendary creatures, ancient heroes, or folklore reimagined, artists unleashed designs that felt like stepping into a storybook. It’s a celebration of the narratives that continue to captivate us across generations.
WINNER: “CRYPTIDS PROTECT NATURE” BY STUDIOMOOTANT
Artists blended the elegance of nature with the structured simplicity of Bauhaus for this challenge. Geometric forms met organic beauty in designs that transformed botanical themes into works of modern art. A garden of creativity bloomed here.
WINNER: “BOTANICAL TOUCAN” BY ROBYRIKER
This challenge was as soft and playful as it sounds. Artists explored the peachiest palettes, textures, and themes to create designs that radiate warmth and whimsy. From fuzzy fruit to charming pastels, this collection is all about feel-good vibes.
WINNER: “LISTEN TO MUSIC MAKE FRIENDS” BY DIEGO GURGELL
Memes have become the modern language of humor, and this challenge brought them into the realm of wearable art. From clever wordplay to visual gags, artists embraced internet culture to create designs that are as hilarious as they are stylish.
WINNER: “FEELING CUTE” BY AGULUQUE
More is more, and that’s exactly what this challenge celebrated. Artists went all out with bold patterns, intricate details, and saturated colors to create designs that demanded attention. It’s art without limits, and it’s glorious.
WINNER: “LESS IS A BORE” BY ESTERKAY
This challenge celebrated the power of civic engagement and the importance of making your voice heard. Artists used bold typography, striking visuals, and thought-provoking messages to encourage viewers to get out and vote.
WINNER: “VOICE YOUR CHOICE” BY LUNCHBOXBRAIN
A cozy retreat in design form, this challenge embraced all things rustic and nostalgic. Artists tapped into warm, earthy tones and retro aesthetics to create designs that feel like stepping into a vintage cabin in the woods.
WINNER: “THE FOX DEN” BY CRISPYTEES
2024 marked the Year of the Dragon, and artists celebrated this powerful symbol with awe-inspiring designs. From traditional Eastern depictions to fantastical interpretations, dragons soared to new creative heights in this challenge.
WINNER: “LUCKY DRAGON DANCE” BY ESTERKAY
Artists embraced the free-spirited charm of doodles for this playful challenge. Whimsical, spontaneous, and delightfully chaotic, these designs captured the essence of creative freedom.
WINNER: “THE HORRORS PERSIST, BUT SO DO I” BY THEWESTWOOD
Night owls and stargazers, this one’s for you. Nocturnalism invited artists to explore the beauty and mystery of the nighttime world. From moonlit landscapes to creatures of the night, these designs glow with creativity.
WINNER: “PARANORMAL SECRET SOCIETY” BY PPMID
Every Threadless Design Challenge invites artists to showcase their unique perspectives and bring exciting themes to life, and this year was no exception. The 2024 Design Challenge winners not only captured the spirit of their challenges but also the imagination of our entire community. Explore these collections and find the designs that speak to you—they make perfect gifts or additions to your own art collection. Let’s celebrate creativity together!
