The ultimate goal of every designer is to have their unique work recognized. 3D printing competitions offer a great chance not only to showcase your design but also to improve skills. Winners get various awards including 3D Printers. In addition to prizes, the selected design is labeled as a winner on STL sharing websites. For the designer, this means special recognition in 3D printing society.
3D printing competitions are mostly sponsored by manufacturers who want to promote their products. While file sharing communities are brilliant platforms for that. As result we see them cooperate well with each other. Please see “Basic tips for best results in 3D printing competitions” below the table.
3D Printing Competitions
Color codes: Open, Closed.| Competition | Description Details | Organizer | Prize | Closing Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3D Scanning Challenge: Kitchen Ware | Scan a piece of kitchen ware (or several) using your preferred tools and workflow. More details: http://bit.ly/2lViZ3q | Sketchfab | $100 Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.09.30 |
| Cute Robot | Use your favorite software and workflow to model a cute robot. More details: http://bit.ly/2m5HpHs | Sketchfab | $100 Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.09.23 |
| Tiertime x5 | Tell us how you would use your x5. Please describe your ideas in detail using text, pictures or videos. More details: http://bit.ly/2lYMD80 | Tiertime | X5 3D Printer | 2019.09.30 |
| Animals | Design and 3D print an original model of an animal. More details: http://bit.ly/2lYRvdj | Cults3D eSun | Filament Spools Resin 55$ Voucher | 2019.10.15 |
| CNC | Disclaimer: Even though Instructable.com are judging the quality of instructions in the first place, there is often a special prize for 3D design and/or 3D printing use. More details: http://bit.ly/2k3cHye | Instructable Fusion360 Tinkercad | $500 $250 $150 Amazon Gift Cards T-Shirts | 2019.10.28 |
| Mushroom | Use your favorite software and workflow to create a mushroom model. More details: http://bit.ly/2lxyeQ1 | Sketchfab | $100 Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.09.30 |
| Indoor Lighting | Disclaimer: Even though Instructable.com are judging the quality of instructions in the first place, there is often a special prize for 3D design and/or 3D printing use. More details: http://bit.ly/2Uf6zjU | Instructable Fusion360 | $500 $250 $150 Amazon Gift Cards T-Shirts | 2019.09.30 |
| Board Game Characters | Pick one theme and create the four characters based on that theme: More details: http://bit.ly/2Hnzvkz | Ravensburger MyMiniFactory | Exclusive rights to sell your official Ravensburger characters. | 2019.09.30 |
| CCDC | Create an experimentally accurate 3D printed molecule of any part of a crystal structure using our visualisation and analysis tool Mercury. More details: http://bit.ly/2MzIh33 | Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre | $50 Shapeways Gif Card | Autumn |
| Photo Maker Contest | Photo Maker Contest: 3 Sections: 3D Print, CNC Carve, Laser Cut / Engrave. More details: http://bit.ly/2M8IGJJ | Endurance Lasers | $50*3 $25*3 $10*3 | 2019.09.22 |
| 3D Printing & Electronics | Design something, anything that will have an electronic component integrated into it. More details: http://bit.ly/31amhPw 3DMN: youtu.be/SwP8aGuEkYU | MyMiniFactory CraftBot 3DMakerNoob | Customized CraftBot Plus 3D Printer | 2019.09.16 |
| Print Settings & more | Giveaway contest. Win a Filament Bundle from Colorfabb: More details: http://bit.ly/33VIEKY | Filaments Directory colorFabb | Filament | 2019.09.04 |
| HP 3D Print | Show us your best color 3D design. Highlight why 3D printing is the best channel of production for your idea. More details: http://bit.ly/31DxyrY | HP | HP ZBook 15 G5 Mobile Workstation Amazon | 2019.09.05 |
| Low Poly Dessert | Model a low poly dessert. More details: http://bit.ly/2ZE8mEc | Sketchfab | $100 Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.09.09 |
| Six Million Member Trophy | Design a trophy to celebrate this huge milestone! More details: http://bit.ly/2K1iux0 | GrabCAD | GrabCAD Goodies! | 2019.08.16 |
| Organic Shapes | Design a 3D model of an organic shape that is appealing to the eye or an organic object that serves a purpose. More details: http://bit.ly/2EuVp46 | Cults3D Polymaker | Polymaker Polysher PolySmooth Filament | 2019.08.15 |
| 3D Printing Student Grant 2019 | Students or 2018 graduates only. All submissions must present a physical product or prototype. Whole or part of the design must be fabricated through a 3D printing process. More details: http://bit.ly/2IF8Oeq | 3D Hubs | 5 x $1000 Professional Support Product Development | 2019.07.30 |
| Ancient Artifacts | 3D model an ancient artifact! More details: http://bit.ly/2Z3GSEx | Sketchfab | $100 Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.07.29 |
| Planter | Disclaimer: Even though Instructable.com are judging the quality of instructions in the first place, there is often a special prize for 3D design and/or 3D printing use. More details: http://bit.ly/2NuSWO0 | Instructables Tinkercad | $250 $200 $100 $50 Amazon Gift Cards | 2019.07.29 |
| 3D Scanning: Walls | We challenge you to create a 3D scan of a wall. More details: http://bit.ly/2xsAtXs | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.07.08 |
| Rainbow | Disclaimer: Even though Instructable.com are judging the quality of instructions/tutorials in the first place, there is often a special prize for 3D design and/or 3D printing use. More details: http://bit.ly/2WuwkjL | Instructables | Canon Camera 8 x Creality 3D Ender 3 Pro 3D Printers | 2019.07.08 |
| Sorcery | We challenge you to sculpt a sorcery-related character, prop, or scene, More details: http://bit.ly/2Ly2VQ0 | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.07.16 |
| ASME Student Challenge: Designing for Social Impact | This competition is open to students at a post-secondary school. Your challenge is to design a 3D printable drone attachment to ensure that packages with sensitive products or equipment arrive at their destination both safely and securely. More details: http://bit.ly/2Tydjs7 | GrabCAD ASME | $500 $300 $200 Subscription Membership | 2019.07.18 |
| Memes | Use your favorite software and workflow to model a 3D version of your favorite meme. More details: http://bit.ly/2WcvqcD | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.06.10 |
| Texturing Challenge: Riding Robot | Download the existing model, texture it, and upload it. More details: http://bit.ly/2QgHe7j | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.06.03 |
| Autodesk Fusion 360 | US Only. Design a product. Three categories: Wearable, Desktop notification device and Organizer. More details: http://bit.ly/2WjgvJB | MakerBot Thingiverse | Paid trip to Portland, Oregon to compete LIVE | 2019.05.31 |
| SelfCAD | Create a functional, printable design of your choice using SelfCAD editor. Any participant who submitted a design will receive free 3-month access. More details: http://bit.ly/2GWp5su | SelfCAD MyMiniFactory | 2xColor Disco 3D Printer by Dagoma more | 2019.06.02 |
| Gardening 2019 | Disclaimer: Even though Instructable.com are judging the quality of instructions/tutorials in the first place, there is often a special prize for 3D design and/or 3D printing use. More details: http://bit.ly/2TMng4B | Instructables TinkerCAD | Apple iPad Dewalt Drill Set | 2019.05.27 |
| Arduino | Disclaimer: Even though Instructable.com are judging the quality of instructions/tutorials in the first place, there is often a special prize for 3D design and/or 3D printing use. More details: http://bit.ly/2ZjRTT0 | Instructables Arduino | $1000 $300 $100 Amazon Gift Cards | 2019.05.27 |
| Full Color Spaceship | The goal of the challenge is to see if you can design a cool spaceship that will be 3D printed in full color via our Stratasys J750 Printer. More details: http://bit.ly/2DDSsh9 | GrabCAD Stratasys | Full Color 3D Print of Your Model GrabCAD Swag | 2019.05.27 |
| Hair | Download the existing model, sculpt hair onto the head of your choice using your preferred tools and workflow. More details: http://bit.ly/2YG5t1G | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.05.27 |
| Holograms of the Future | Create a ‘Sci-Fi Hologram’ model for the Looking Glass 3D Model Importer. More details: http://bit.ly/2Jw331k | Sketchfab The Looking Glass | Standard Looking Glass value: $599 | 2019.05.20 |
| Polypanels | Polypanels are a system of snap-together parts that let you build whatever you want! It’s like an open-ended construction toy for making functional items. More details: http://bit.ly/2IDthhV | Make Anything MyMiniFactory | 3D Printer SnapMaker 2 3-in-1 | 2019.05.15 |
| 3D Scanning Challenge: Stickers | 3D Scan something with one or more stickers on it using your preferred tools and workflow. More details: http://bit.ly/2VDpUi4 | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.05.13 |
| Lowpoly Challenge: Cars | Create a low poly (<10k polys) car using your preferred tools and workflow. More details: http://bit.ly/2GGAEUA | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.05.06 |
| Progressive Challenge: Round 4 | Download the winning entry from the last round, upload it to Sketchfab, make it look great using the settings in the 3D Editor. More details: http://bit.ly/2GHIQnq | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.05.08 |
| Easter Egg | You don’t need to be an experienced 3D designer to enter this contest – just paint the egg using Egg Painter App. More details: http://bit.ly/2UmPsem | Sketchfab | Full Color 3D Printed Model | 2019.04.29 |
| Jewelry Challenge 2019 | Disclaimer: Even though Instructable.com are judging the quality of instructions/tutorials in the first place, there is often a special prize for 3D design and/or 3D printing use. More details: http://bit.ly/2FQpHiK | Instructables TinkerCAD | $250 $100 Amazon Gift Cards Other | 2019.04.29 |
| #3DPIAwards | 3D Printing Industry Awards 2019. We want you to design a trophy that will celebrate the unique capabilities of 3D printing. More details: http://bit.ly/2WHnTOB | MyMiniFactory ProtoLabs Ultimaker | Ultimaker 3 3DPI Throphy | 2019.05.01 |
| New Year's Resolutions! | Create a 3D model that will help the achievement of your New Year's resolutions! More details: http://bit.ly/2HmGF9K | Cults3D XYZ Printing | 3D Printer Vinci Color Mini more | 2019.04.30 |
| Hope 3D | For this design challenge, you must produce a concept, model, or prototype that incorporates 3D printing into a solution to improve the world. More details: http://bit.ly/2UsmQl4 | MyMiniFactory Hope3D.org | 3D Printer Snapmaker 3-in-1 Craftsman Tools | 2019.04.19 |
| #TinkerCharacters | This competition is the right chance to shape your ideas into a cool and funny character. More details: http://bit.ly/2Y7a5yt | MyMiniFactory Tinkercad | 3D Printer BIQU Thunder Goodie Bags | 2019.04.15 |
| Progressive Challenge: Round 3 | Download the winning entry from the last round, rig and animate it using your preferred tools and workflow. More details: http://bit.ly/2TKoEEI | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.04.15 |
| ToolChanger STL | No real rule for the theme, however, all submitted models must include the use of 3 or 4 materials. More details: http://bit.ly/2TomcbQ | E3D-Online | v6 Gold HotEnd Titan Aero Nozzle Packs | 2019.03.27 |
| Remix Contest | The Remix Contest is about finding inspiration in an existing project, and making your own version that pushes the idea to the next level. More details: http://bit.ly/2SxUHLE | Instructables | MacBook Air 3D Printer Rotary Tool Kit More | 2019.04.01 |
| Progressive Challenge: Round 2 | Retopology, Unwrapping, Baking, and Texturing existing model: Arachne, Weaver of the Gods by toomanydemons. More details: http://bit.ly/2H78zq7 | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.03.13 |
| Smart Assistant | The theme of this design challenge is to design an accessory for your smart home assistant. More details: http://bit.ly/2DbF0jv | MyMiniFactory Sindoh | 3D Printer Sindoh 3DWox DP200 | 2019.03.01 |
| Progressive Challenge: Mythological Creature | Sculpt a mythological creature using your preferred tools and workflow, upload your model to Sketchfab. More details: http://bit.ly/2tj97AP | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.02.25 |
| Extreme Redesign | Open to students worldwide. This year, extreme redesign features 3 categories. More details: https://goo.gl/nCVRbv | GrabCAD Stratasys | $2500 & $1000 Scholarship More | 2019.02.24 |
| Gears, Pulleys, and Cams | Show us some interesting motion by 3D printing a mechanism that uses gears, pulleys, cams, or any combination of the three. More details: https://goo.gl/gWKvWb | hackaday.io | 3 x $275 Cash 7 x $100 Credits at Tindie | 2019.02.17 |
| Non-violent Weapon | Create a low poly (<10k polys) non-violent weapon using your preferred tools and workflow. More details: http://bit.ly/2G82c58 | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.02.11 |
| Stena Ship's Hull | Design A Ship's Hull Form with Minimum Resistance. More details: https://goo.gl/jG3mAf | GrabCAD Stena | $7500 $5000 $2500 | 2019.02.08 |
| Make It Real | How close can your design get to the “real thing” when fabricated with a Stratasys J750? Challenge participants will need to download and use GrabCAD Print to produce their .print files. More details: https://goo.gl/NYa6sc | GrabCAD Stratasys | $10,000 $5,000 $1,000 Print Credit More | 2019.01.29 |
| Mechanical Animals | Use your favorite modeling tools to create a mechanical animal, upload it to Sketchfab. More details: https://goo.gl/BmWC7s | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2019.01.21 |
| Anet 3D | So here's a chance win trip to China in the 2018 Anet Global 3D Printing Competition. Simply by showing the application of your 3D printer in a video. More details: https://goo.gl/UrPh58 | Anet 3D | Trip to China Anet 3D Printers Filament More | 2019.01.15 |
| Pimp My Original Prusa | Design, for one of the themes, extensions for Original Prusa i3 MK3. More details: https://goo.gl/zSegcv | MyMiniFactory Prusa Research | 3D Printer Filament Prusament | 2019.01.10 |
| Holiday Decor | Whether you're building a giant light display, 3D printing a custom Menorah, sewing Christmas stockings or baking a gingerbread village, we want to see it. More details: https://goo.gl/gz7pL4 | Instructables | 32GB iPad A Dremel Craft & Hobby Maker Other | 2019.01.07 |
| #fixmydeco | This time, we need you to design spare parts for a Christmas or New Year decoration. More details: https://goo.gl/j1t571 | MyMiniFactory Sindoh | 3D Printer Sindoh 3DWox DP200 | 2019.01.06 |
| 3December | You’re welcome to use whatever 3D technique and workflow you prefer to create your models. More details: https://goo.gl/BvbEW4 | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.01.01 |
| Puzzle Challenge | How to make a puzzle of any variety. Special Tinkercad Judges Prize. More details: https://goo.gl/QqzPKn | Instructables | Creality CR-10 3D Printer Dremel 4300-5/40 Rotary Tool Kit, more | 2018.12.10 |
| #FIXMYTOY | This time, we need you to design spare parts for a toy or a game. More details: https://goo.gl/cRSeov | MyMiniFactory Sindoh | 3D Printer Sindoh 3DWox DP200 | 2018.12.09 |
| VR Design Challenge: Mozilla Hubs Clubhouse | Hubs is Mozilla’s new social 3D platform. It lets you meet friends, ‘voice talk’ to them, and decorate the space with any kind of content, including YouTube videos, images and, of course, Sketchfab models. More details: https://goo.gl/QqzPKn | Sketchfab Mozilla Hubs | $1000, 750, 350, 50 Amazon Gift Card Oculus Go Sketchfab PRO | 2018.11.27 |
| Plastics | Anything that uses plastic is eligible for this contest! There is also a special prize for the best use of Tinkercad within an Instructable. More details: https://goo.gl/pMHNwL | Instructables | MacBook Air Vinyl Cutter $250 Amazon Gift Card | 2018.11.26 |
| Halloween | Show us your best Halloween themed projects for your chance to win. These can include costumes, makeup, decorations, and recipes, but it is really only limited by your imagination. More details: https://goo.gl/Z639Hu | Instructables | iPhone X GoPro Hero5 Leatherman | 2018.11.12 |
| #TRICKORPRINT | In this design challenge, you can show off the perfect costume, accessory or decoration for your Halloween party. More details: https://goo.gl/WjxXbS | MyMiniFactory | $250 | 2018.11.07 |
| #FIXMYINSTRUMENT | This time, we need you to design spare parts for musical instruments. More details: https://goo.gl/WMgQsM | MyMiniFactory Sindoh | 3D Printer Sindoh 3DWox DP200 | 2018.11.06 |
| VR Chat Avatar | Use your favorite modeling tools to create a low poly (<10k quads) VR Chat avatar. More details: https://goo.gl/E9HM37 | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.11.05 |
| #TinkerDream | 3D Storytelling Competition! This contest has two parts: a short written story and a model created in Tinkercad. More details: https://goo.gl/4oKp3E | MyMiniFactory Tinkercad | Little 3D Printer Kit 3D-Fuel Filament Bundle | 2018.10.27 |
| Texturing Challenge: Zombie | Texture particular zombie using your favorite texturing workflow. More details: https://goo.gl/guiD7S | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.10.29 |
| Jack-o'-Lanterns | 3D scan a jack-o’-lantern using your preferred tools and software. More details: https://goo.gl/KQKLkQ | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card | 2018.10.22 |
| Haunted House | Use whatever 3D method you prefer to create a model of a haunted house. More details: https://goo.gl/c7p3jo | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.10.15 |
| Tree Stumps | 3D Scan a tree stump using your preferred tools and software, upload it to Sketchfab and tag the model #StumpChallenge. More details: https://goo.gl/YS8kae | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.10.08 |
| #FIXMYDRONE | This time, we need you to design spare parts for drones and remote control gadgets (RC). More details: https://goo.gl/xyTMLg | MyMiniFactory Sindoh | 3D Printer Sindoh 3DWox DP200 | 2018.10.06 |
| Texturing Challenge: Fish | Texture this goldfish using your favorite texturing workflow, upload it to Sketchfab and tag it with #FishChallenge. More details: https://goo.gl/6E2RQC | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.10.01 |
| Fix It | A chance to show off how you repaired something that broke and made it better. More details: https://goo.gl/xT9mqK | Instructables | Canon Camera Apple iPad Leatherman | 2018.10.01 |
| KITCHEN & COOKING | Design a 3D printable model that is useful for kitchen & cooking. More details: https://goo.gl/3cAEZb | Cults3D Machines-3D | 3D Printer START 3D Pen PLA | 2018.09.30 |
| DOBOT Color-mixing 3D Printing Contest | Makers and designers, are you a little bored with single-colored printing artworks? Here is an unmissable chance for you to print something colorful, showcase your brilliant design and get the chance to win a 3D Printer. More details: https://goo.gl/Hp3LZo | DOBOT | 3D Printer DOBOT MOOZ-3 more ... | 2018.09.26 |
| Low Poly Adventure Props | Use your favorite modeling tools to create a low poly (<10k polys) adventure prop, upload it to Sketchfab, and tag it #LowPolyAdventure. More details: https://goo.gl/xG2fqA | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.09.17 |
| Netsuke | Use your favorite sculpting tools to create your own netsuke, upload it to Sketchfab, and tag it #NetsukeChallenge. More details: https://goo.gl/fTrvHA | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.09.10 |
| #CLICKALOO | You won’t have to design anything new. Instead, you have to be as creative as you can with the parts that already exist. More details: https://goo.gl/6DSx7y | MyMiniFactory Clickaloo CraftUnique | 3D Printer CraftBot 2 | 2018.09.04 |
| IKEA Off The Grid | We want to explore independent off the grid solutions that allow people to be less dependent on existing systems. More details: https://goo.gl/kbsiVd | MyMiniFactory IKEA | 3D Printer Chance to sell your idea/design to IKEA | 2018.08.31 |
| #3DPIMPMYRIDE | This time, we need you to design spare parts for bicycles, bikes, cars or any other vehicle. More details: https://goo.gl/ji9yFj | MyMiniFactory Sindoh | 3D Printer Sindoh 3DWox DP200 | 2018.08.29 |
| Generations | Use whatever 3D method you prefer to create a model that shows at least three generations of something. #GenerationsChallenge. More details: https://goo.gl/aYGx5P | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.08.27 |
| 3D Printing Nerd Design Challenge | For this challenge, you need to design a spool holder that fits into the filament shelves. More details: https://goo.gl/rtRGoL | MyMiniFactory MatterHackers 3D Printing Nerd | Matterhackers PRO Series Filament Bundle | 2018.08.20 |
| #AIRSOFT3D | In this design challenge you must design 3D printable Airsoft spare parts or accessories. More details: https://goo.gl/gxZRa6 | MyMiniFactory Airsoft | $250 | 2018.08.20 |
| 3D Scanning Challenge Summer Fun | 3D Scan something that says “summer” to you using your preferred tools and software, upload it to Sketchfab and tag the model. More details: https://goo.gl/mU4qiy | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.08.13 |
| Fast Furniture Challenge | Create modular 3D printed joints in PLA that can effortlessly be assembled into a 36”x36” table with pre-cut wood from Home Depot under 1 hour. More details: https://goo.gl/wdXPHG | re3d.org | $250 | 2018.08.08 |
| Typography and Type | Use whatever 3D method you prefer to create some neat word art. Upload it to Sketchfab and tag it #textchallenge. More details: https://goo.gl/V7URCa | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.07.16 |
| #TINKERFUN | Your design must have something to do with summer, fun and outdoors. Think water guns, boomerangs, and birdhouses - that's what we want to see! More details: https://goo.gl/TnVxbY | MyMiniFactory Tinkercad | Snapmaker 3D Printer Goodie Bags | 2018.07.16 |
| Low Poly Furniture & Home | create a low poly 3D model – or better yet several models to make a pack – for the Home & Furniture category. More details: https://goo.gl/fgAVPT | Sketchfab | Promotional Posts $100 Sketchfab Sponsored Boost Sketchfab PRO | 2018.07.16 |
| #FIXMYHOME | Design a suitable cleaning appliance spare part. More details: https://goo.gl/dSedKw | MyMiniFactory Sindoh | 3D Printer Sindoh 3DWox DP200 | 2018.07.13 |
| #FUELINGINNOVATION | In this design challenge, participants must find a way to give a unique user experience to Esso’s premium fuel pump. More details: https://goo.gl/6Wtejh | MyMiniFactory ESSO | Fusion3 F410 3D printer | 2018.07.11 |
| My Design Accessories | 3D printed and laser-cut objects design competition. More details: https://goo.gl/8YqhYB | MyThing | € 750 € 500 € 250 | 2018.07.09 |
| VR Sculpture Park | Use your favorite modeling software to create a sculpture that looks great in VR. More details: https://goo.gl/mecHdQ | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.07.02 |
| 3D Sculpting Challenge | Use your favourite sculpting tools to make a pet (real or ideal) even more super than they already are, upload it to Sketchfab and tag it #SuperPetsChallenge. More details: https://goo.gl/zgzoS7 | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.06.25 |
| Planter Challenge | Be kind to your plant friends and design them an amazing planter. More details: https://goo.gl/nnXajv | Instructables | 3D Printer FlashForge Leatherman Surge Prize Pack | 2018.06.25 |
| 3D Scanning Challenge | 3D scan a piece of 3D scanning equipment with your favorite scanning tool or software, upload it to Sketchfab and tag it #ToolsOfTheTrade More details: https://goo.gl/RqTvgU | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.06.18 |
| FROM 2D TO 3D | Create a 3D printable 3D model that is useful for 2D photos. Improve your photos exposure or your camera experience with 3D printing. More details: https://goo.gl/Tv2kmm | Cults3D HP 3D Printing | HP Sprocket 2-in-1 Photo Printer | 2018.06.17 |
| PUZZLES | For this challenge the theme is puzzles! The 3D puzzle can be anything you like. More details: https://goo.gl/kqGddJ | MyMiniFactory MakeAnything Dremel | 3D Printer | 2018.06.17 |
| #BOARDGAMES3D | For this design challenge, we need you to design spare parts and accessories for board games. More details: https://goo.gl/o5o6vM | MyMiniFactory Sindoh | 3D Printer | 2018.06.12 |
| Outdoor Architecture | Seller exclusive challenge focuses on one of the top selling categories on the store: architecture. Create a building or other architectural 3D model More details: https://goo.gl/TZJFPh | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.05.22 |
| #3DMCGILL | For this design challenge, you must design an object that represents your university or college department. It could be Architecture, Arts, Business Studies, Biology, History, Computer Science, Engineering etc. More details: https://goo.gl/nCZyi7 | MyMiniFactory MAMSS LULZBOT | 3D Printers 3D Pen Goodie Bags | 2018.05.11 |
| Medieval Remix Challenge | Create a new scene using only assets from the Medieval Fantasy challenge. More details: https://goo.gl/9kM5Hu | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.05.10 |
| #COMPUTERPARTS | Design a suitable computer spare part. Only tried and tested designs will be qualifiable/considered. More details: https://goo.gl/aof8bH | MyMiniFactory Sindoh | 3D Printer | 2018.05.04 |
| 3D Sculpting Challenge Flying Creatures | We’re challenging you to sculpt awesome airborne creatures in action. Realistic or fantasy – it’s up to you. More details: https://goo.gl/8Gx8AC | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.04.30 |
| Space Challenge | In the Space Challenge we are asking you to consider the cosmos and post an Instructable that is in some way related to outer space. A special judges prize will also be awarded for the project with the best use of Tinkercad. More details: https://goo.gl/dqM9ie | Instructables Tinkercad | $500 $100 $50 Amazon Gift Card | 2018.04.30 |
| CORPORATE GIFT | Make a 3D printable model of a Corporate Gift! Cup, pencil pot, business card holder, trophy, etc. More details: https://goo.gl/m9ZaK6 | Cults3D MAGIGOO Fillamentum | €300 Amazon Gift Card Magigoo Filament | 2018.04.30 |
| #TINKEREASTER | We want you to take the toy within an egg idea and bring it into the 3D printing world. The toy you design does not have to be related to Easter, so go wild with what you create. More details: https://goo.gl/oRUWL4 | MyMiniFactory Tinkercad | 3D Printer Filament Goodie Bags | 2018.04.12 |
| 3D Scanning Challenge: Hands | 3D scan a human hand with your favourite scanning tool or software, upload it to Sketchfab and tag it #HandScanChallenge More details: https://goo.gl/anreL7 | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.04.11 |
| Game Design Contest | For this contest, you're tasked to re-create a prop from a video game of your choice for the chance to win prizes from Robo3D, BQ, and Adafruit. More details: https://goo.gl/TovFYp | Pinshape Robo3D BQ Adafruit | 3D Printer Gift Card | 2018.04.07 |
| LIFE HACK 3D | Create a 3D printable Life Hack. A Life Hack is a concept that optimizes daily life (personal and professional) with tips, techniques or tools. More details: https://goo.gl/uytRrn | Cults3D BQ | 3D Printer Filament 50€ Voucher | 2018.03.31 |
| #CAMERAPARTS | For this challenge, you must design a camera part More details: https://goo.gl/Rez1Pi | MyMiniFactory | $250 | 2018.03.31 |
| #3DPIAwards 2018 | The theme of this 3D design challenge is designing a trophy for the 3D Printing Industry Awards, taking place on May 17th, 2018 in London. More details: https://goo.gl/vFjNq9 | MyMiniFactory 3DPI Protolabs | 3D Printer | 2018.03.31 |
| 3D Remix Challenge | We want you to re-imagine some of the amazing historical art and artifacts that have been uploaded to Sketchfab. More details: https://goo.gl/ma4uYv | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2018.03.05 |
| #3DSPAREPARTS Battery Covers | Whether it’s lost during transit or broken in use, we all know the frustration of losing a battery cover and using tape to replace it. Why not just print it out? More details: https://goo.gl/8bo6mp | MyMiniFactory | $250 | 2018.02.28 |
| Minecraft Challenge 2018 | Pack up your torches, swords, pickaxes, and loaves of bread to get yourself ready for the Minecraft Challenge. More details: https://goo.gl/Uu5MpX | Instructables | 3D Printer Filament LEGO kit | 2018.02.18 |
| #FUELINGINNOVATION | Taking the iconic 250ml can and re-purposing it for home, travel, garden, sports, science or anything that sparks your imagination. More details: https://goo.gl/kkPTJ2 | MyMiniFactory Esso | 3D Printer BCN3D Sigmax Startt 3D | 2018.02.14 |
| Stratomaker Mascot | Draw me a mascot. All you have to do is create a unique and fun object easily printable which represents the Stratomaker 3D printer. More details: https://goo.gl/RPrk87 | Cults3D Stratomaker Arianeplast | 3D Printer Filament 50€ Voucher | 2018.02.05 |
| #3DSPAREPARTS | We want you to design, print and upload 3D spare parts designs in order to help people who need them. Winners will be chosen at random. More details: https://goo.gl/HBVunz | MyMiniFactory | $250 | 2018.01.31 |
| BlocksCAD Snowflake Challenge | We challenge you to create a design for a snowflake using BlocksCAD. More details: https://goo.gl/ZtPXC6 | Thingiverse BlocksCAD | 3D Printer Filament Subscription | 2018.01.22 |
| #DAVINCI3D | The theme of this 3D design challenge is exotic species. More details: https://goo.gl/Aupxpz | MyMiniFactory | Brush Set | 2018.01.15 |
| Print To Win | Submit pictures of your best 3D prints for the chance to choose from a variety of different eSUN materials. More details: https://goo.gl/ugqTes | eSUN Pinshape | Filament | 2017.12.24 |
| #TINKERCHRISTMAS | Theme: A 21st Centruary Christmas. Design/Remix in Tinkercad and upload entry to MyMiniFactory. More details: https://goo.gl/k46ZAL | MyMiniFactory Tinkercad | 3D Printers Swag bag | 2017.12.15 |
| Vectary 3D Print Design | You will need to create awesome 3D models in Vectary and share it there. The main competition theme is Xmas Decorations. More details: https://goo.gl/FnuDbW | MyMiniFactory Vectary Makex | 3D Printers Swag bag Private Slots | 2017.12.10 |
| The Bathroom of Tomorrow | Invent or improve objects related to the bathroom to make this more practical. It can be accessories, decorative elements or even storage. More details: https://goo.gl/W55Cgs | Cluts3D Dagoma Leroy Merlin | 3D Printer Gift Card | 2017.11.30 |
| Create to Educate Lesson Plan Contest | Help inspire students to learn and solve problems through 3D technology by creating a lesson plan with a 3D printing or 3D design component. More details: https://goo.gl/V4jS1z | Pinshape MatterHackers Ultimaker | 3D Printer MatterControl 3D Pen Gift Cards | 2017.11.30 |
| 3D Scanning Challenge | 3D scan your favourite gadget or piece of technology using your favourite scanning workflow, upload it to Sketchfab. More details: https://goo.gl/hQGJ2j | Sketchfab | $100 Amazon Sketchfab PRO | 2017.11.27 |
| Teal™ Drone Remix Challenge | We challenge you to remix the Teal Sport Drone for a chance to win Prizes a Teal Sport drone and other exciting accessories! More details: https://goo.gl/tsmpTW | MakerBot Thingiverse | Drone Goggles Transmitter | 2017.11.22 |
| #FLEX3D | The theme for this design challenge is "flexibility", and while quite broad, will encourage you to design with flexible filament in mind and explore the boundaries of your 3D design expertise. More details: https://goo.gl/6fyiFT | MyMiniFactory MakeShaper | 3D Printer Extruder Filament | 2017.11.18 |
| Sinterit SLS | This time we have three themes for you to enter into. You can enter as many times as you like and into any of the themes. The key criteria that the judges will be looking at is that your design is well thought out for SLS machines - these have different capabilities to FDM and SLA. More details: https://goo.gl/iFFnKb | MyMiniFactory Sinterit | SLS 3D Printer | 2017.10.31 |
| Additive Manufacturing Cup | The Additive Manufacturing Cup is an international contest where teams of students will have to replicate, as accurately as possible, a 3D figure with our polyetheretherketone (PEEK) filaments, one of the most difficult polymers to print. More details: https://goo.gl/mj2TEY | Solvay | Cash €10,000 €5,000 €3,000 | 2017.10.29 |
| #TRICKORTREAT3D | In this competition, we want to get you tinkering with one simple question - Trick or Treat? You can enter into both competitions, as many times as you want. More details: https://goo.gl/2UaBoq | MyMiniFactory Tinkercad BCN3D | 3D Printers Swag bag | 2017.10.24 |
| Proto-Pasta Print Contests | Submit your prints for a chance to win 3 x 50g samples of Proto-pasta’s HTPLA, including one unreleased filament. We will be giving away this sample pack to 5 winners every week for the next two months. More details: https://goo.gl/2gUgmF | Pinshape Proto-Pasta Formlabs | Filament (weekly) | 2017.10.14 |
| Print Your Furniture | Are you convinced that 3D printing will revolutionize our everyday lives? Prove it by modeling a furniture perfectly 3D printable. More details: https://goo.gl/nDkNrv | Cluts3D Dagoma | 3D Printer 3D Printer Kit Gift Card | 2017.09.30 |
| Vectary Design Competition | For this competition you will need to use Vectary - it's completely free and can be accessed directly from within your browser - to create awesome 3D printable objects and share them to MyMiniFactory using the Vectary plugin. The competition has four themes. More details: https://goo.gl/3SkfaK | MyMiniFactory Vectary Makex | 3D Printers Swag bag Private Slots | 2017.09.17 |
| My Precious Plastics | We want to introduce 3 different categories: FINGER, NECK and WRIST. Each designer can upload a maximum of 3 different designs for each category. More details: https://goo.gl/3LXnsS | Designboom | Cash $5,300.00 | 2017.09.10 |
| Avatar Design | Let your imagination run free with our Design your Future Avatar Contest. Design an original character that represents your personality and spirit. Feel free to design an avatar in your own image, or take this as an opportunity to design a character that you aspire to be. More details: https://goo.gl/t4mcrH | Pinshape Formlabs ZBrush Oculus & others | 3D Printer Software Oculus Rift Subscription | 2017.08.31 |
| rigid.ink Print Contest | Submit pictures of your best 3D prints to win 1 of 15 rolls of rigid.ink PLA or Formlabs standard resin. The top print will take home a special roll of Carbonyte filament. More details: https://goo.gl/n4nLSn | Pinshape rigid.ink Formlabs | Filament | 2017.08.06 |
| BOSE Build Design Challenge | Unlike other contests, you don't create an Instructable to enter. Instead, simply download the start files provided, open your favorite 3D modeling program, and design a custom enclosure for the speaker. Once you have your design, you can enter the STL files and images. More details: https://goo.gl/xWATpJ | Instructables BOSE | 3D Printer Speaker Headphone Soundlink T-shirt | 2017.07.31 |
| 3D DESIGN COMPETITION | In this competition, we want you to use your creativity and tinkering skills to play around and create something amazing using Tinkercad with 3D printing in mind. There are four separate themes for this competition - you can enter into as many or as few as you like, as many times as you want. More details: http://bit.ly/2rVItQ2e | MyMiniFactory Tinkercad BQ | 3D Printer Goods | 2017.07.16 |
| Chip-E Remix Challenge | Chip-E is patiently waiting for new talents and skills! This challenge gives you the opportunity to customize Chip-E to jump, roll, dance, turn, move and do anything you can image. Together with RobotGeek, we are hoping to see the most eclectic and original all new Chip-E design! More details: http://bit.ly/2sq0Oke | Thingiverse RobotGeek | Robot Kit | 2017.07.13 |
| Mechanical Design Challenge | With new functional materials coming out all the time, 3D printing is quickly becoming capable of producing end use, mechanical parts. Show us your best mechanical designs for a chance to win a Form 2 3D printer. It could be something with integrated electronics or it could be mechanical parts or gears. More details: http://bit.ly/2pTlkbp | Pinshape Formlabs Prusa Research Adafruit 3D Hubs | 3D Printer Gift Card | 2017.07.01 |
| Taulman Print Contest | Love 3D printing? Show off pictures of your best prints for a chance to win 1 of 30 rolls of T-Glase PETT Filament or Formlabs Resin. More details: http://bit.ly/2raywws | Pinshape Taulman | Filament | 2017.06.24 |
| 3D Solutech Print Contest | Show off pictures of your best prints for a chance to win 1 of 40 rolls of 3D Solutech PLA or ABS. SLA users can enter to win Formlabs resin. Just snap a pic of your print and upload it to enter to win! Winners will be chosen at random and you can enter more than one print into the contest. More details: http://bit.ly/2pnzanZ | Pinshape 3D Solutech | Filament | 2017.05.12 |
| Envision the Future Design Challenge (18 and Over) | We’re challenging you to create a tactile tool to help a visually impaired person in everyday life or in the classroom. This could be something to help them complete simple everyday tasks or it could be an educational model that helps them understand a concept or lesson. More details for (18 and Over): http://bit.ly/2ocNNvz More details for (Under 18): http://bit.ly/2o07btE | Pinshape MatterHackers | 3D Printer Filament Gift Card | 2017.05.08 |
| 3D PRINTABLE HOMEWARE DESIGN COMPETITION | In this, first ever 3D printable homeware design competition, we want you to design a beautiful piece for the home, thinking about how best to showcase capabilities of this awesome machine's characteristics such as texture, color and build volume. More details: http://bit.ly/2o0rwiE | MyMiniFactory WASP | 3D Printer Service | 2017.04.28 |
| OFFICIAL TROPHY 3D DESIGN COMPETITION | We want you to create a trophy for the awards, which will be printed professionally by The Virtual Foundry in their bronze filamet and polished up to a high standard. What better way to get your work in the hands of some of the biggest names in 3D Printing? More details: http://bit.ly/2nJi5Ub | MyMiniFactory Virtual Foundry 3DPI | 3D Printer Service Filament | 2017.04.28 |
| MOKACAM 3D DESIGN COMPETITION | We are tasking you with designing innovative 3d printable accessories in the form of mounts, cases, stands, anything that takes your imagination. More details for: http://bit.ly/2oGrNtD | MyMiniFactory Mokacam | Camera | 2017.04.21 |
| SPECIAL [MAKES] CHALLENGE | To inaugurate the new Makes feature on Cults, we invite you to participate into our photo contest and try to win a Sigma BCN3D 3D printer, filaments spools and a Cults' gift card. More details: http://bit.ly/2mGZlTA | Cults3D BCN3D | 3D Printer Filament | 2017.04.13 |
| Nintendo Switch | We want you to download the 1:1 scale Nintendo Switch template and use your creativity and ingenuity to design a single or a range of 3D printable Nintendo Switch addon's / accessories which will aid comfort, customizability or functionality. More details: http://bit.ly/2mZCc0v | MyMiniFactory | 3D Printer Console | 2017.04.07 |
| MakerGeeks Print Contest | Show off pictures of your best prints for a chance to win 1 of 50 rolls of Crystal Series PLA from MakerGeeks.com or a cartridge of Formlabs resin. Simply take a picture of your print and upload it to Pinshape to be entered to win. More details: http://bit.ly/2lv6jug | Pinshape MakerGeeks Formlabs | Filament | 2017.03.31 |
| Character Modeling Contest | Bring the characters of your imagination to life with our Character Design Contest! Create a 3D model of an original character, human or non-human, and give your character a name and story. More details: http://bit.ly/2kKL2Ng | Pinshape Formlabs | 3D Printer | 2017.03.01 |
| Monster Hunter Generations | In this competition we want you to choose a weapon from Monster Hunter Generations - here's a selection - and re-imagine it for 3D printing. Choose any weapon you want and design it in your own style and then submit the finished STL file(s) and/or photos of your finished 3D print to MyMiniFactory. More details: http://bit.ly/2jlX5Ek | MyMiniFactory Capcom Raise3D | 3D Printer Nintendo 3DS | 2017.02.21 |
| Filamentone Print Contest | Show off pictures of your best prints for a chance to win 1 of 30 rolls of PLA. 30 randomly chosen winners will take home a PLA roll of their choice from Filamentone.com and the top three prints have a chance to win a 3D printed pen and specialty Nylon or Flexible filament. More details: http://bit.ly/2kiDR2i Winners: http://bit.ly/2mwj9gy | Pinshape Filamentone | Filament Pen | 2017.02.09 |
| WildBrain 3D Charakter | We want you to use your 3D design skills to create a new character, or group of characters, that could be used as the stars of a new WildBrain production. More details: http://bit.ly/2hosKme | MyMiniFactory WildBrain | Cash: $500 | 2017.01.31 |
| #Design it Wright | Ever wanted to 3D design something for a celebrity? Well now is your chance to not only work with totally cool Floreon 3D filament, but to design a pair of specs for the awesome Ian Wright, and win a year’s worth of filament to boot. You will also get to be one of Floreon’s 3D Ambassadors and test all their new products first before anyone else. More details: http://bit.ly/2gFRTpp | MyMiniFactory Floreon iMakr | 3D Printer Filament | 2017.01.31 |
| Space Design Contest | Your challenge is to design an object that makes life more comfortable for someone in space for long periods of time. This could include anything related to entertainment in space to medical and first aid needs or tools for personal hygiene. More details: http://bit.ly/2goays8 Winners: http://bit.ly/2jnGdYQ | Pinshape ZYYX Shining 3D | 3D Printer Scanner Pen Filament | 2017.01.15 |
| Remix Challenge | We’re challenging you to pick one or more Things from the Remix Challenge collection and help them evolve into something new and/or improved. Use your imagination and technical expertise in equal parts. More details: http://bit.ly/2gfCaBa | Thingiverse MakerBot | 3D Printer Filament | 2017.01.01 |
| Print to Win | If you love trying out new types of filament, upload your prints to get sample packages of Algix3D’s newly released OMNI and Alga filament. OMNI filament has the strength properties of ABS with the resolution quality of PLA. It is made from mostly renewable material and is fully compostable. Like it sounds, Alga filament is made from a combination of algae and PLA material. More details: http://bit.ly/2h7a2x5 Winners: http://bit.ly/2kJO74g | Pinshape Algix3D Simplify3D | Filament Software | 2016.12.19 |
| Katjes Magic Candy Factory | Ever wanted to 3D print your own candy? Well now’s your chance to not only work with the awesome Katjes Magic Candy Factory, but to have a chance of winning one of their exclusive Magic Candy Machines (worth in excess of £30,000), currently not available to buy anywhere in the world. More details: http://bit.ly/2gZVC4n | MyMiniFactory Katjes Magic Candy Factory | 3D Printer | 2016.12.14 |
| Cosplay Design | With Halloween just around the corner, we’re excited to launch a Cosplay design challenge! Create a prop or model from one of your favorite movies, video games, or books and you could win a brand new Ultimaker 3. More details: http://bit.ly/2fMonTb Winners: http://bit.ly/2hjNQ6m | Pinshape Ultimaker EUCL3D | 3D Printers Gift Card | 2016.11.24 |
| Design by Capture | We want you to take an object that you use for your favorite hobby, and using 3D capture and Autodesk ReMake and Fusion, customise it to best suit your needs. It could be a camera you are looking to create a custom mount or case for, or a bike pedal that you want to customise. The sky is the limit! Whatever it is, capture it, process it using ReMake, modify it using Fusion, optimise for 3D print. More details: http://bit.ly/2gFSffJ Winners: http://bit.ly/2hvPemA | MyMiniFactory Autodesk | Oculus Rift HTC Vive VR | 2016.11.07 |
| Print to Win | You could win a 1kg spool of PLA+ in the color of your choice, just by submitting a picture of your print on Pinshape. Submit your favourite prints because the top print will also win a subscription to Simplify3D! More details: http://bit.ly/2gogMIp Winners: http://bit.ly/2fMDUOD | Pinshape eSUN Simplify3D | Filament Software | 2016.11.03 |
| #enabledby3d | We want you to come up with an original 3D printable design that solves an everyday problem. Be it an item that makes an everyday chore easier, or an enabling device, allowing those with disabilities greater accessibility. Anything goes, so long as your design has a practical everyday use that will help make someone's life easier, you can enter it. More details: http://bit.ly/2c8ndvu Submissions: http://bit.ly/2dsHYDG | MyMiniFactory Eagle Labs Barclays | 3D Printers | 2016.10.12 |
| Pokemon Go | The more interesting and creative the better, you could sculpt your favourite Pokemon, or design something to help you play the game, like John Cleaver's viral hit - Pokeball Aimer. More details: http://bit.ly/2hx1h2d Collection: http://bit.ly/2gEhAG5 | MyMiniFactory | Nintendo 3DS XL | 2016.08.26 |
Please post your comment below or Contact Us if we’ve missed any 3D printing related contest/competition. We will update our table accordingly.
Basic Tips For Best Results in 3D Printing Competitions
– Please read competition instructions carefully before entering any contest.
– In most 3D printing competitions designers would come up with totally new designs, however, in some cases, designers will be asked to redesign existing objects.
– You don’t have to be a top designer to participate. Unique idea is paramount.
– Ability to use various design software skills will make you competitive but it will not guarantee the first place.
– Research the subject of competition and try to find topics that have not been overused.
– If competition involves redesigning something you should analyze it and find weaknesses and areas of improvements.
– When posting your entry describe it clearly with a good quality picture. The way you post the entry is as important as the design itself.
– It is a good idea to share your competition entry in social media. This can win you vital likes together with possibly gaining some useful advice.
– Competitions may carry additional requirements such as for loading multiple parts or restrictions concerning age, country of origin, etc. Please pay attention to the small print at the end of announcements.
3D Printing Events – List of Shows & Fairs
We’ve put together a table with important 3D printing events, shows and fairs that happened or will happen in near future. There you can also find a brief coverage of the events made by 3D printing community members. Find the list of events here: https://3dwithus.com/3d-printing-events-shows-fairs
Hi 3DWithUs. You’d probably want to add the 3D Hubs Student Grant to the list. The 2019 edition was just launched. The winners get $5.000 in total, plus professional support to further develop their project.