Yarnwinders offered two challenges this year for conference.   The inaugural rug challenge allowed yoopers and visitors to embrace the Upper Peninsula’s strong Scandinavian and rug weaving  heritage.  Weaving rag rugs from upcycled materials has been a part of their heritage for over 150 years.  The yardage challenge asked that participants interpret the conference theme “Lake Superior Threads”.  The items submitted this year were juried by Phyllis Frendendall, professor emeritus (Fiber Department) from Finlandia University, Hancock, Michigan.  The following list gives the winning pieces by category.Challenge winners Yardage category 1. Janney Simpson 2. Loretta Oliver  3. Martha Town Honorable Mentions: Jean Hosford,  Donna Mundshau  Rugs category 1. Jean Hosford  2. Nathan Corson 3. Pat Curtis Honorable Mentions: Marge Sumner (2) The Yarnwinders Guild won the People’s Choice table award with “Birds”.