The
Varnish
Prize
for Fiction

We are thrilled to announce our new contest, The Varnish Prize for Fiction! 

We’re looking for submissions of the most compelling, formally-inventive and vital unpublished short fiction. Submissions are open to everyone, but judges will be selecting in accordance with Varnish Online’s mission to highlight emerging writers and early career voices. 

All selections will be made by the Varnish editorial team. As always, we can promise that all eligible submissions will be read in their entirety.  


Prizes: 

  • First Place: $350.

  • Second Place: $100.

  • Third Place: $50.

All finalists and shortlisted writers will be published in Varnish Online.

Guidelines:

  • Word Limit: 5000 words.

  • We’re only able to consider the first 300 submissions, so don’t delay! 

  • Please do not submit non-fiction or poetry.

  • Please only submit previously unpublished works.

  • Submissions are limited to one story per writer.

  • Please send all submissions to: varnishsubmissions@gmail.com.

  • When submitting, please add “The Varnish Prize for Fiction” to your email subjectline.

  • Please do not put your name on the actual document.

Key Dates:

  • Submissions are now open and will close 15 November 2025.

  • Shortlist announced in early December 2025.

  • Winner announced by 15 December 2025.