Northern Threads
Welcome to Making Fashion Academy – Northern Ontario’s first-ever fashion and garment education hub. We offer immersive masterclasses, host the Runway Ready competition, and culminate in a dazzling annual showcase: Northern Threads – A Fashion Gala & Runway Showdown.
Walk the Thread. Wear the Future.
Our Mission
To empower creators of all ages with the skills, tools, and confidence to design, sew, and strut their original fashion pieces—while championing sustainability, cultural storytelling, and local innovation.
Competition Structure
Launch: July 22, 2025
Application Deadline: September 15, 2025
Participants Selection: September 30, 2025
Design Development: October 2025 – April 2026
Final Gala: May 8, 2026
5 Categories
What’s Included
Access to Making Fashion Academy masterclasses in your chosen category
guidance from industry mentors throughout the competition period
Promotional exposure via our website, social media, and printed materials
Professional photoshoot + media package
A spot in the live runway show in May 2026
Judging Criteria
Each garment will be scored on:
Craftsmanship
Creativity
Alignment with theme
Personal voice
Presentation and styling
Awards
Category Winners (5)
Judges' Choice
Audience Favourite
Best in Show
5
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Categories
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5 • Categories •
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FABRIC LAB
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CUT & SEW
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REWORK & REWEAR
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WEAR THE WORLD
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FUTURE MAKER
Inside
our world
Step into the journey of creation — where every garment begins with an idea, a sketch, a spark.
From the first pencil lines on paper to the rhythm of scissors against fabric, watch as concepts are cut, sewn, and sculpted into form. Our designers breathe life into every stitch, transforming raw textiles into expressive silhouettes that speak of identity, craftsmanship, and imagination. Here, fashion isn’t just made — it’s born.
Get Involved
Whether you’re ready to strut your skills on the runway or support the next generation of fashion talent — we want to hear from you.
Fill out the form below to:
Ask questions about entering the competition
Inquire about sponsorship or partnership opportunities
Connect with the Making Fashion Academy team
Let’s create something unforgettable together.