Convention T-Shirt Design Contest

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National PTA Convention 2026

National PTA Convention T-Shirt Design Contest

National PTA invites young artists to submit designs for a signature T-shirt distributed during the 2026 National PTA Convention. Designs must reflect this year’s theme: “Together Again: PTA Lights the Way for Every Child.”

There is no entry fee to submit a design. Students must be in pre-K to grade 12 and be supported by a PTA in their community (all levels welcome). The deadline for submissions is March 23 at 11:59 p.m. PST.

The contest winner will be announced in April and will receive a $200 prize. Two other finalists will receive $100. The content winner will:

  • Have their winning design featured on t-shirts distributed during the national convention and receive (3) complimentary t-shirts for personal use

  • Be acknowledged on National PTA social media and in the 2026 National PTA Convention Event App



National PTA Convention 2026

Contest Details

 

How to Submit


  • Review the requirements and details below.

  • Use this link for submission directions.

  • Submit designs using this form. National PTA will not accept entries by email.


Contest Form



Design Requirements


  • Theme: Designs must reflect this year's theme, “Together Again: PTA Lights the Way for Every Child.”

  • Originality: Students are highly encouraged to generate original concepts/designs. Use of copyrighted material is prohibited.

  • Technology: Students may use digital and analog tools to create an entry. Technology/software may not provide the primary design and/or concept, including templates or generative AI.



Submission Requirements


  • Type: 2D visual art (non-photographic).

  • Format: Accepted file formats are JPG, PNG and EPS (vector).

  • Size: Max 9x12 inches. Vertically or horizontally. Any shape is welcome within max size.

  • Resolution: Files submitted should have a minimum of 300 DPI, with 600 DPI preferred.

  • Number of Submissions: Only one design submission per contestant. Only one student will be recognized for an entry.

  • Signatures: Student and parent/guardian signatures (digital) are required for submission.



Fine Print


  • National PTA reserves the right to use its sole discretion in selecting the designs to be recognized in the contest.

  • National PTA reserves the right to make adjustments and alterations to the winning entry.

  • Ownership in any submission shall remain the property of the entrant, but entry into this program constitutes entrant’s irrevocable permission and consent that PTA may display, copy, reproduce, enhance, print, sublicense, publish, distribute and create derivative works for PTA purposes.



Additional Details

 

Tips and Suggestions


  • Students may draw inspiration from any part of the theme (e.g., “Together Again,” “Lights the Way”).

  • The artwork will be featured on the front of a black or purple t-shirt.

  • Use high contrasts or strong shadows.

  • If designing in one color, note the final color will be adjusted to stand out against the t-shirt's background.



Tips for Quality Photos of Designs

  • Make sure photos are clear and simple. Avoid extra blank space or distractions around the design.
  • Avoid reflections and adjust the lighting or angle to minimize glare.
  • Don't use digital zoom. It lowers the image quality. Instead, move your camera closer.
  • Face the camera towards the design directly. The lens should be at the center, not tilted.
  • Ensure the lighting is even. Natural light is best. If using artificial lights, use a gentle, diffused light. 
  • Avoid using your camera's flash as it can change the colors and create shadows.


Design Review Considerations


National PTA staff, leadership, and PTA partners will judge the contest using the following criteria:

  • Originality: How original the design is in its conception of the theme.

  • Creativity: How creative the design is in its concept and presentation.

  • Relevance: How clearly the design captures the theme with meaning, purpose and integrity.

  • Feasibility/Visibility: Is it eye catching and visible from a distance? Can it be easily reproduced on a t-shirt?



Questions?


Send questions to Programs@PTA.org.

This email address is for questions only. Do not submit artwork to this email address. Use the digital form to submit your artwork.