Thanks so much for all the great feedback! Cathy and I have been discussing it and what do you think about having one abstract theme and one pattern?
So there would be a vote for an abstract theme and a vote for of the many patterns that has been on the site over the years, such as Hearts, the Y&N Diagonal, Jema's Victorian Corset or Sandra's Fanning's 1878 patent corset?
That pattern would then be the foundation for one of the competition categories, people could start from that and be creative within a bit of structure.

That actually sounds delightful. Seeing all the differ interpretations of a single pattern is one of the best things about being a forum mod. And keeping the other category free form would probably mean that some people would put their own spin on the pattern, and some would use the pattern with the other category, and some would use their own pattern with the free form prompt. Very fun.

Sounds great! And would be far easier to "judge" as well I'll bet!