Greta Rickertsen of Lexington and Dakota Vrbas, of Stratton, represented Nebraska at the 2026 National Make It With Wool (MIWW) competition held in conjunction with the American Sheep Industry Association Convention, January 29-31, in Reno, Nevada, according to Andrea Nisley, State Make It With Wool Director. The national wool contest has been conducted for 78 years.
Greta Rickertsen was second runner-up in the 2026 Junior Division National Make It With Wool Contest, and Dakota placed among the top eight participants in the Senior Division.
Greta received Pendleton and American Woolen wool fabrics, Wooley Star clapper, Guggenhein shears, Coats & Clark thread assortment, Serger 101 book, wool pressing mat, and various sewing prizes. For her entry, Greta constructed and modeled a navy blue asymmetrical-front wool coat which features a mandarin collar, princess seams, silver buttons, and topstitching. To complete the ensemble, Greta crafted a plaid sleeveless sheath dress with designer darts and princess seams. Greta is the daughter of Curt and Holly Rickertsen.
Dakota received Pendleton and American Woolen wool fabrics, Guggenhein shears, Coats & Clark thread assortment, Serger 101 book, wool pressing mat, and various sewing notions. For her entry, Dakota constructed and modeled a two-piece power suit. The striking turquois plaid paired with rich dark brown accents, adds a contemporary, yet classic, flair. She is the daughter of Aubrey and Farris Vrbas.
Amanda Spradlin, of Cozad, competed in the mail-in Adult Division. The adult division competition is based on a video, narration, and garment construction, prior to the National Contest. Amanda constructed a black watch plaid wool cape.
The trip and contest were sponsored by the American Sheep Industry Association, National Make It With Wool Program, Nebraska Sheep and Goat Producer Association, and Nebraska Make It With Wool.
The purpose of the Make It With Wool Contest is to promote the beauty and versatility of wool fabrics and yarns, to encourage personal creativity in sewing, to recognize creative skills, and to develop life skills.
Contestants must select, construct, and model their own garments. All entries must be made with 100 percent wool, or wool blend with a minimum 60 percent wool or specialty wool fiber for each fashion fabric or yarn used.
