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 | Details | Prize | Ends |
|---|---|---|---|
| Folklore | Use any 3D tools to create a 3D render. Organized by: CG Boost | Subscriptions and Credits | 2021.03.24 |
| Daft + Punk Universe | Model a scene reminiscent of Daft Punk’s style. Organized by: Sketchfab | DP Album, Turntable, more | 2021.03.29 |
| Simple Machines | Create a simple machine Organized by: Instructables | $500, 250, 100, 19 Prizes | 2021.03.29 |
| 3D Pioneers Challenge 2021 | International Design Competition for Additive Manufacturing and Advanced Technologies Organized by: 3DPC | €35000, more | 2021.03.31 |
| Airship Print and Paint | Print and Paint Airship Organized by: MyMiniFactory | 7.000 in Prizes | 2021.04.14 |
| Modified 3D Printers | Show and share the creative DIY modified printers. Organized by: Creality | $20.000 in Prizes, more | 2021.03.09 |
| E3DFlexibles2021 | Design something that makes interesting use of flexible 3D printing material. Organized by: E3D-Online | “Flowalistik” Signature Hemera, more | 2021.03.14 |
| Loopy Looper | Create modification of the Loopy Looper. Organized by: Cults3D | x4 Printers | 2021.04.15 |
| Fantastic Print & Paint | Print STL from the campaign and paint it. Organized by: MyMiniFactory | Phrozen, Resin, more | 2021.04.14 |
| Enapter | Design devices and systems for hydrogen applications. Organized by: GrabCAD | $3.000 in Prizes | 2021.05.19 |
| Innovation Award | For 3D printing applications startups. Organized by: Forward AM | $100.000 in goods and services, more | 2021.03.28 |
| Painting Contest | Patreon. Print, paint, and post. Organized by: WWTavern | Phrozen, more | 2021.03.10 |
| Upcycling | Recycle materials or unwanted products. Organized by: Snapmaker | Rotary module, more | 2021.03.07 |
| make:able | An assistive technology design challenge for students. Organized by: PrintLab | 6 for each age group | 2021.04.01 |
| #3DPetPrint | Design something "Pet inspired" for a chance to win a Creality CR-10s & more. Organized by: ptt.live, Thangs | 3D Printer, Filament, $50, more | 2021.02.28 |
| Gaming Mouse | US and Canada. Design a computer gaming mouse. Organized by: GrabCad | $3000 Cash, more | 2021.03.01 |
| Make It Glow | Make something that glows. Organized by: Instructables | $500, $250, etc. 19 Prizes | 2021.03.01 |
| Robot | US and Canada. Create a 3D model of an innovative, futuristic robot. Organized by: Sketchfab | Sony’s Spatial Reality Display, more | 2021.03.01 |
| Miniatures | Share a picture or a video of your own favorite miniature Organized by: Anycubic | Photon Mono, Resin, more | 2021.02.25 |
| TownBuilder | Use TownBuilder to design your 3D terrain. Organized by: MyMiniFactory | 1x Phenom 3x Mars Pros | 2021.02.22 |
| Jewelry | Special prize for using Tinkercad Organized by: Instructables | 20 Prizes | 2021.03.01 |
| Organization Tools | Create a model or improve an already existing one. Organized by: PrusaPrinters | i3 MK3S+ Kit, Prusament | 2021.02.21 |
| Power of Nature | Use any 3D tools to create a 3D render. Organized by: CGBoost | Subscriptions and Credits | 2021.02.24 |
| Movie Role Scene | Submit your entry shots.. Organized by: Elegoo | 3D Printers, more | 2021.02.16 |
| Painting Contest | Patrons Only. Print, Paint, and Post on Instagram. Organized by: BTB | Phrosen Mini, more | 2021.02.15 |
| Alien Moon Landing | Use Blockbench to create an alien moon landing scene. Organized by: Sketchfab | $50 Gift Card, Subscription | 2021.02.08 |
| #Thangs100K | Print a model from Thangs & share it on FB, Twitter, Insta Organized by: Thangs | $5000 in 3D Printers | 2021.02.06 |
| Anything Goes | Open to any project ... Organized by: Instructables | $500, $250... 19 Prizes | 2021.02.08 |
| Street Art | 3D Scanning Challange. Use iOS LiDAR Scanning Apps. Organized by: Sketchfab | $100 Gift Card, Subscription | 2021.02.01 |
| Fantasy Island | Create a low poly fantasy island. Organized by: Sketchfab | Framed Art $50, $25, Cards | 2021.02.01 |
| #sculptjanuary2021 | Challenge yourself over 31 days with a set of 31 topics. Organized by: CGBoost | NA | 2021.01.31 |
| 3D Modeling Contest | Create a posed, stylized fantasy character ... Organized by: AnimSchool | Cash Prizes Subscription | 2021.01.29 |
| Underground City | Use any 3D tools to create a 3D render. Organized by: CGBoost | Subscriptions and Credits | 2021.01.27 |
| Gaming Guy | Editing Challange. Use data from the original model. Organized by: Sketchfab | $100 Gift Card, Subscription | 2021.01.25 |
| HeroesToo | Schools only. Develop innovative and sustainable solutions for social distancing. More details: https://bit.ly/3nswCBI | x3 3D Printers | 2021.01.15 |
| X-mas Tree Decoration | Make a Christmas ornament, share a picture on FB. More details: http://bit.ly/38lc9d6 | Filament, Resin, More | 2021.01.15 |
| Enapter Challenge | Design a water trap that can remove moisture ... More details: https://bit.ly/3fAfLKz | Up to $2000 in Prizes | 2021.01.09 |
| Christmas Printing | 3D print and paint your baubles ... More details: http://bit.ly/3r69Hik | Phrozen Mighty & Mini, More | 2021.01.01 |
| 3December 2020 | Create a model every day ... More details: https://bit.ly/33EeY6w | Framed Art $50 Gift Card | 2021.01.04 |
| 3D Printed Bedroom | Create a printable 3D model that is useful in a bedroom. More details: https://bit.ly/2Tug5jG | Adventurer 3 Filament | 2021.01.05 |
| Christmas | Download, print, and paint ... More details: http://bit.ly/34lGhTu | 10x Elegoo Mars Pro | 2020.12.28 |
| 3D Printable Gifts | Design a unique holiday gift ... More details: https://bit.ly/3ghHdwS | Ender 3 PRO, 7 Prizes | 2020.12.28 |
| Snow Creature | Create a 3d Render of Snow Creature More details: https://bit.ly/342syRj | Subscriptions and Credits | 2020.12.23 |
| Plastics | Disclaimer: Instructables.com judge on the quality of instructions. Special prize for the best use of Tinkercad. More details: https://bit.ly/34lyjtX | $500, $250... 20 Prizes | 2020.12.14 |
| Battery Powered | Light it up, make it move, power screens ... More details: https://bit.ly/2JKFy72 | $500, 250... 19 Prizes | 2020.12.14 |
| Thangs | 3D print and share Rancor by ChaosCoreTech. More details: https://bit.ly/3qgRle3 | 3x $50 Gif Cards | 2020.12.13 |
| Tippy Tree | Skin design contest. Create a customized skin for Tippi Tree. More details: https://bit.ly/35Fu25o | x3 3D Printers | 2020.12.06 |
| Holiday Decorations | Share how you decorate for the holidays ... More details: https://bit.ly/2Jd4aF2 | $250, 100... 9 Prizes | 2021.12.07 |
| Mechanical Clock | Use gears, numbers, hands and any mechanism you have in mind. More details: https://bit.ly/3l0qCiT | $250 Subscription | 2020.11.29 |
| Modern Apartment | Design a modern apartment, fully furnished. More details: https://bit.ly/3kZwfh2 | Framed Art $50 Gift Card | 2020.11.30 |
| Paint and Craft | Paint and Craft Contest on Patreon More details: https://bit.ly/3k9UsQN | 2x Phrozen 3D Printers, more | 2020.11.30 |
| Holidays | Model a holiday scene. More details: https://bit.ly/32VgoJj | Framed Art $50 Gift Card | 2020.11.30 |
| Plastic Packaging | Realization of the next generation of PET packages. More details: https://bit.ly/38LLffk | €5000 | 2020.11.25 |
| Magic Book | Create a new 3d rendered image. More details: https://bit.ly/3lqjg8j | Subscriptions and Credits | 2020.11.25 |
| Stylized Bust | Recreate your favorite character as a low poly stylized bust. More details: https://bit.ly/3lq9Nht | Framed Art $50 Gift Card | 2020.11.23 |
| Fashion & Accessories | There are earrings, necklaces, belts, ties, buttons, etc. Be creative ... More details: https://bit.ly/34CdmLo | 2x Prusa Mini Prusament | 2020.11.20 |
| DiamArt | Design new products for the luxury market. More details: https://bit.ly/3fe23N9 | €4000 | 2020.11.12 |
| Lo-Fi Study Girl | Concept Art Challenge More details: https://bit.ly/3e26ytI | $50 Gift Card Subscription | 2020.11.09 |
| Halloween | 7 Categories including, costumes, masks, and props. Disclaimer: Instructables.com judge on the quality of instructions. More details: https://bit.ly/3l1zF2k | $1000, 500... 26 Prizes | 2020.11.09 |
| Remix | Make your own version that pushes the idea to the next level. Disclaimer: Instructables.com judge on the quality of instructions. More details: https://bit.ly/2Fw0jBE | $500, 250, 100, 50 Gift cards. | 2020.11.09 |
| Sci-Fi Corridor | Download the existing model and apply a texture to it. More details: https://bit.ly/35iFylE | $100 Gift Card Subscription | 2020.11.02 |
| Halloween | Students only. Create a 3D object on BlocksCAD. More details: https://bit.ly/33DDhBT | 2x $25 Gift Cards | 2020.10.31 |
| NASA | An Advanced Lightweight Lunar Gantry for Operations (ALLGO) More details: https://bit.ly/2RRzQkx | $7000 In Prizes | 2020.11.02 |
| Haunted House | Use your favorite software and workflow to model a haunted house. More details: https://bit.ly/2IyjUSN | Framed Art $50 Gift Card | 2020.10.26 |
| Moving Castle | Create a new 3d rendered image. More details: https://bit.ly/3jICYv8 | Subscriptions and Credits | 2020.10.28 |
| Culture and Tradition | Use RealityCapture (photogrammetry software) to participate. More details: https://bit.ly/3jTA0ny | €200 Credit $100 Gift Card | 2020.10.19 |
| 3D Printing Industry Awards 2020 | Design a trophy that will celebrate the unique capabilities of 3D printing. More details: https://bit.ly/3gOzkyB | Craftbot 3D Printer | 2020.10.10 |
| Virtual Prototyping | Student Virtual Prototyping Design Challenge More details: https://bit.ly/3gZy3nH | 2x 3D Printer more | 2020.10.12 |
| Make it Move | We want to see projects that move. Disclaimer: Instructables.com judge on the quality of instructions. More details: https://bit.ly/3bACdkw | $500, 250, 150, 50 Gift cards. | 2020.10.12 |
| Calligraphy School | Sketchfab 3D Editor Challenge. More details: https://bit.ly/34btjGX | $100 Gift Card Subscription | 2020.10.12 |
| Tidy Desk | Improves the organization of your home office or desk. More details: https://bit.ly/3n7dNVr | Ender 3 PRO | 2020.10.09 |
| Isometric Room | Use your favorite software to create a 1 x 1 x 1 isometric room. More details: https://bit.ly/2FMGGp5 | Framed Art $50 Gift Card | 2020.10.05 |
| RTFKT | Texture existing model using your preferred tools and workflow. More details: https://bit.ly/32Bk4jG | Sneakers, Hoodie... | 2020.09.28 |
| Hook Tournament | Join a free Hook 3D Design Course on ptt.live to win a 3D printed hook tournament. PolyMax Only. | 3x 3D Printers 35x Filament | 2020.09.25 |
| Let there be light! | Light – your model must shine. More details: https://bit.ly/2CGSE1I | MK3S Kits Prusament | 2020.09.27 |
| COR Alpha Design Challenge | Submit a design for a stand-alone product or a component of a larger design. More details: https://bit.ly/33Pe4F8 | $25.000 in Prizes | 2020.09.28 |
| Mushroom House | Create a new 3d rendered image. More details: https://bit.ly/3m2pOL2 | Subscriptions and Credits | 2020.09.23 |
| I'm a unique color | Identify the color of yourself. Draw a picture with your own color! More details: https://bit.ly/2QfP6qh | Artist 24 PRO Deco PRO | 2020.09.20 |
| SelfCAD | Themes: Music Instruments, Interior Design, and Holidays. More details: https://bit.ly/39VQyaq | FDM and SLA 3D Printers | 2020.09.20 |
| Purmundus Challange | The theme of this year's international competitions in the field of 3D and 4D printing is: "Geometry and Material in Harmony". More details: https://bit.ly/3hCiIuB | EUR 30.000 in Prizes | 2020.09.21 |
| Robots | Share your robotics-related projects. Disclaimer: Instructables.com judge on the quality of instructions. More details: https://bit.ly/3fSpxHj | $500, 250, 100, 50 Gift cards. | 2020.09.14 |
| CNC | CNC-themed instructables. Disclaimer: Instructables.com judge on the quality of instructions. More details: https://bit.ly/2CG83iL | $500, 250, 150, 50 Gift cards. | 2020.09.14 |
| RTJ4D | Remix the model or scene using your favourite 3D workflow. More details: https://bit.ly/2PHGwAF | XP-Pen, Headset, more | 2020.09.07 |
| Design Inspiration | Design a “pebble” to showcase PolyJet capabilities. More details: https://bit.ly/2VDvdwq | $3000 in Prizes | 2020.09.07 |
| Cultural Product Design | Explore the spirit behind Yangshilei. More details: https://bit.ly/2DHW8l2 | $8.500 more | 2020.09.01 |
| Summer Contest | Students only. Create a 3D object on BlocksCAD. More details: https://bit.ly/30D4z8N | Chromebook Membership | 2020.08.21 |
| NASA Challenge | Restraint and Mobility Aid System for Multiple Gravity Environments. More details: https://bit.ly/3e4tMxC | $7000 in Prizes | 2020.08.17 |
| Puzzles | We want to see puzzles of all types. Disclaimer: Instructables.com judge on the quality of instructions. More details: https://bit.ly/3iyBcvA | $250, 100, 50 Gift cards. | 2020.08.17 |
| MonoBike | Use your preferred tools and workflow to texture an existing model. More details: https://bit.ly/30okV6d | $100 Gift Card, Subscription | 2020.08.10 |
| Fairy Tale | 3D model a fairy tale scene. More details: https://bit.ly/3gpo0bD | Framed Art $50 Gift Card Subscriptions | 2020.08.03 |
| Student Design Contest | For all students who are using Tinkercad. Disclaimer: Instructables.com judges the quality of instructions in the first place. More details: https://bit.ly/2UAuprX | $100, $50 Gift Cards | 2020.08.10 |
| Cyrcle Phone | Design a non-rectangular phone from the future. More details: https://bit.ly/2NOq5S2 | 3 x Creality Ender 3 PRO | 2020.07.31 |
| Shop Challenge | Create a functional tool that will be requested on GrabCAD Shop! More details: https://bit.ly/31dhsbs | License, T-Shirt & More | 2020.07.27 |
| Upcycling Prusament | Original Prusament boxes/spools only. Anything goes: toys, games, educative items, practical, etc. More details: https://bit.ly/3i2mXQb | MK3S Kit Prusament More | 2020.07.26 |
| Souvenirs | Scan one or more souvenirs using your preferred tools and workflow. More details: https://bit.ly/3j41NBV | $100 Gift Card Subscription | 2020.07.27 |
| Trash | Use your favorite software and workflow to model some trash. More details: https://bit.ly/2ZMUkOS | Framed Art $50 Gift Card | 2020.07.20 |
| Medieval Fantasy Tavern | 3D editor challenge: Use an existing model and resubmit it in a unique way. More details: https://bit.ly/2Vkwk4i | $100 Gift Card Subscription | 2020.07.06 |
| Bring the Outdoors Indoors | Create a 3D model that brings an outdoor activity inside. More details: https://bit.ly/2WTewgo | $200 Credit Swag, more | 2020.06.26 |
| Global Maritime AM Challenge | Design an innovative rescue boat. More details: http://bit.ly/2o0lNhi | $30,000 $20,000 $10,000 | 2020.06.30 |
| Sea Life | Create a low poly scene of 3D sea life. More details: https://bit.ly/37Hct4k | Art Print $50 Gift Card | 2020.06.29 |
| 3D Scanning Clothes | Scan one or more pieces of clothing using Agisoft Metashape. More details: https://bit.ly/2U5FGjt | Software $50 Gift Card Subscription | 2020.06.31 |
| Environment Day | Use 3D printing to create something to hold, help, keep, or improve the nature of your environment. More details: https://bit.ly/3hALtbf | PolyBox Filament | 2020.06.25 |
| Toys & Games | We want to see the most awesome toys and games you can make at home! Tinkercad special prize. More details: https://bit.ly/3guivcc | $250, $150, $100, $50 Gift Cards | 2020.06.22 |
| Paladin's Book | Hand paint an existing 3D model. More details: https://bit.ly/2AsxZgT | $100 Gift Card Subscription | 2020.06.22 |
| 3D Printed Jewelry | Design and 3D print an 3D original model of one or more pieces of jewelry. More details: https://bit.ly/2K7HiDY | Anycubic 3D Printers, Filament | 2020.06.15 |
| Stormtrooper | Imagine what a Stormtrooper would do away from the stress of their regular work life! More details: https://bit.ly/2WB5w0K | Rights to Sell, more... | 2020.06.25 |
| Sculpting | Design a 3D model or create a remix that fits the contest theme. More details: https://bit.ly/2L3LYeT | Prusa SL1 Prusament | 2020.06.07 |
| Dune Buggy | Use your favorite software and workflow to model a dune buggy. More details: https://bit.ly/3d4I7dS | Art Print $50 Gift Card | 2020.06.09 |
| The Distance Learning | Post an instructable with an outline of the assignment and demonstrates three examples of student work that includes Tinkercad 3D designs. More details: https://bit.ly/2Uw83bs | $500, $250, Gift Cards | 2020.06.01 |
| Sci-Fi Circus | Use your favorite software and workflow to sculpt a character that you might find in a sci-fi circus. More details: https://bit.ly/2WyZvjA | XP-PEN $50 Gift Card more | 2020.06.01 |
| Double-Bladed Axe | Use your favorite software and workflow to texture existing model.. More details: https://bit.ly/36cUcLp | $100 Gift Card Subscription | 2020.06.01 |
| Finish It Already | Finally complete and share your neglected, abandoned, and half-finished projects. Document creative process and add a story. More details: https://bit.ly/2X6xlg8 | $250, $100, $50 Gift Cards | 2020.06.01 |
| 3D Printed | Get extra publicity for your model and don't forget to add the instructions. Disclaimer: Instructables.com judge on the quality of instructions. More details: https://bit.ly/2Uw83bs | $1000, $500, $250, $50 Gift Cards | 2020.05.25 |
| Extreme Redesign | Open to students worldwide. This year, Extreme Redesign features 3 categories. More details: http://bit.ly/2PbAZ5Z | $3500 & More Scholarship | 2020.05.25 |
| Boast Your Toast! | Reimagine and reinvent the toaster. More details: https://bit.ly/3eYCLlz | Subscriptions, Prusa i3 MK3S | 2020.05.24 |
| Lighthouse | Use your favorite software and workflow to model a lighthouse. More details: https://bit.ly/2Z0HLka | Art Print $50 Gift Card | 2020.05.25 |
| 3D Pioneers 2020 | Welcoming entries from universities and research institutes as well as from industry, design and engineering firms. More details: http://bit.ly/38DGCjO | €35,000 3D Printer more ... | 2020.05.15 |
| 3DBenchy | 3DBenchy turned five. Let’s celebrate! #3DBenchyBirthdayContest More details: NA | SImplify3D Filament | 2020.05.09 |
| Baked Goods | 3D Scan one or more baked goods using your preferred tools. More details: https://bit.ly/2xgW9Jx | $100 Gift Card Subscription | 2020.05.11 |
| Mask Holder | Mask holder design competition. Original or a modification. More details: https://bit.ly/3b631ar | $100 Gift Card | 2020.05.11 |
| CoVent-19 | Develop a rapidly deployable mechanical ventilator. Round 1 (Open Entry). More details: https://bit.ly/2QVUwaX | $10 000 in Prizes | 2020.05.01 |
| Earth Day | Model something related to Earth Day. More details: https://bit.ly/3cBkFnK | Art Print $50 Gift Card | 2020.05.06 |
| Face mask | Improve or build a new model. More details: https://bit.ly/3aDglDi | 10k Euro | 2020.05.03 |
| Clocks | Get extra publicity for your model and don't forget to add the instructions. Disclaimer: Instructable.com judge on the quality of instructions. More details: http://bit.ly/2IkkHTQ | 32 GB iPad Apple Pencil & more... | 2020.04.27 |
| 3D-ify This in Your Style | Interpret François Bourdin’s concept art in your 3D style. More details: https://bit.ly/2w0MXZ8 | $100 Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2020.04.27 |
| Sculpting | Get extra publicity for your model and don't forget to add the instructions. Disclaimer: Instructables.com judge on the quality of instructions. More details: https://bit.ly/2wJgM0X | $500, $250, $50 Gift Cards | 2020.04.27 |
| Electromaker Kits | Customize one of Electromaker’s popular 3D printable projects: The DIY Mood Lamp. More details: https://bit.ly/2UARsBZ | Mega X Photon Zero Wash & Cure | 2020.04.25 |
| 3D Editor Challenge | Adjust 3D Editor settings to give the existing model an entirely new look and feel. More details: https://bit.ly/34ENkWh | $100 Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2020.04.27 |
| NASA "RASSOR" Bucket Drum | Design a bucket drum for RASSOR that will provide the maximum amount of regolith extraction and retention while remaining free of obstructions during loading and unloading. More details: http://bit.ly/2WmvNjv | $7000 in Prizes | 2020.04.20 |
| Everyday Necessities | Everyday necessities for life during a pandemic. More details: https://bit.ly/2UAqNWa | 3 * MK3 Kits 25 Spools | 2020.04.17 |
| Arcade Games | Low poly. Use your favorite software and workflow. More details: https://bit.ly/2Vdjrbk | $100 Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2020.04.20 |
| Covid-19 | Prevent the spread by creating open-source product designs for public spaces. More details: https://bit.ly/2RGPTlc | Under $799 | 2020.04.19 |
| LED Strip | Get extra publicity for your model and don't forget to add the instructions. Disclaimer: Instructables.com judge on the quality of instructions. More details: https://bit.ly/3aBIXNR | $250, $50 Gift Cards | 2020.04.13 |
| DUCU | UK Only. Design Competition for Kids. Three age ranges: under 5s, 6 - 10 Yrs, 11 - 16 Yrs. More details: https://bit.ly/3bLxr2J | 3 x Lego Sets (£120) | 2020.04.10 |
| Easter Egg | Create your own customized Easter Egg, with any design program. More details: https://bit.ly/34ky0xZ | CraftBot Plus Pro 3D Printer | 2020.04.13 |
| CC0 Remix Challenge | Use your favorite software and workflow to create a scene using at least three CC0 models. More details: http://bit.ly/2Q39Bqw | $100 Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2020.04.07 |
| Sanitiser - Fountain Of Hygiene | Creative industries and individuals are invited to submit their designs for a future vision of sanitiser. These designs will be displayed at the Design Museum. More details: http://bit.ly/38YOZXa | Charity for The Red Cross | 2020.04.05 |
| Texturing: Easter Bunny | Texture Easter bunny using your preferred tools and workflow, More details: https://bit.ly/3agAUpu | $100 Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2020.04.06 |
| Heart | Get an extra publicity to your model ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ and don't forget to add the instructions. Disclaimer: Instructable.com judge on the quality of instructions. More details: http://bit.ly/39qVa6V | iPad Air, 64 GB T-Shirt & more... | 2020.04.06 |
| varioShore | Disclaimer: the project/make has to be completed using varioShore TPU only. Share your prints on social media, use the hashtag. More details: http://bit.ly/39JH40D | 16, 8, 4 Filament Spools | 2020.03.31 |
| Duncan Louca's Transhuman | PRINT - PAINT - POST Competition. Duncan Louca's Transhuman model. (Disclaimer: Nude Art) | 5 x Resin 3 x Resin 3 x Resin | 2020.03.31 |
| Make-A-Thon | Medical Device 3D printing design competition utilizing CAD and Solidworks to solve medical problems. More details: http://bit.ly/2SiDODK | NA | 2020.03.28 |
| Favorite Toy | Scan your favorite toy and use RealityCapture to process the model. More details: http://bit.ly/2VHJEAA | €200 RC Credit $100 Gift Card | 2020.03.31 |
| Tiny Cabin | Use your favorite software and workflow to model a tiny cabin. More details: http://bit.ly/2xQKVeZ | $100 Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2020.03.30 |
| Low-cost Ventilators | Montreal hospitals launch global challenge to design low-cost ventilators More details: https://bit.ly/2wEzcjh | CAD $200k | 2020.03.30 |
| ELEGOO 3D Print Contest | NA, EU, Japan Only! Elegoo Mars Printers Only! 3D print, publish and hashtag to win. More details: http://bit.ly/339cmfn | 5xResin x1 2xResin x2 1xResin x7 | 2020.03.23 |
| Luminaire Design | MENA region. The 3D Printed Luminaire Design Competition. More details: http://bit.ly/2woi2WK | Showcase in Dubai. Trip to Show. | 2020.03.22 |
| Frontiers | Model a character, architecture, or vehicle that you might encounter on a frontier. More details: http://bit.ly/2SkPLY9 | $100 Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2020.03.02 |
| Practical & Functional | Contest theme: Practical and functional models for your household, garage or garden. More details: http://bit.ly/2RS4WYA | MK3S Kit $150 Voucher $100 Voucher | 2020.03.01 |
| Fix It | 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/2N47G3O | Makita Cordless Tools | 2020.03.02 |
| Raspberry Pi | 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/2T23pS8 | 3D Printer, Gift Cards | 2020.03.02 |
| e-NABLE | USA schools only. Create a 1-3 min video. More details: http://bit.ly/36g5mxj | Ultimaker 2+ 8 Spools Filament | 2020.02.29 |
| Dream Car | Australia Only. Three age groups: under 8, ages 8-11 and ages 12-15. Students asked to recreate their 2D Dream Car sketch as a 3D model using Makers Empire’s 3D design app. More details: http://bit.ly/2SLS8Fb | $275 Gift Cards $2500 Vouchers | 2020.03.01 |
| Fantasy Forest | Create a collection of at least 10 Sketchfab models using the theme of “Fantasy Forest”. More details: http://bit.ly/37CBLPZ | $100 Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2020.02.10 |
| Meet MAT 2 | MAT is back. He changed, a bit. He grew. He needs new texturing, new looks. 3D Painting Contest. More details: http://bit.ly/2RHpR0u | Value of $50k of prizes in total | 2020.02.04 |
| Dogs | Use your favorite software and workflow to model a dog. More details: http://bit.ly/2sR2pFO | $100 Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2020.02.03 |
| Low Poly Game Level | Use your favorite software and workflow to create a low poly game level. More details: http://bit.ly/35syhhe | 3 x $100 Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2020.02.03 |
| Design Challenge 2020 | In two categories, both professionals and students are encouraged to redesign an existing conventional part of a machine or product for 3D printing. More details: http://bit.ly/2JycHQ2 | 3D Printer Software Licenses more | 2020.02.01 |
| Made With ColorFabb | Share your ColorFabb prints on social media, tag us with our official accounts and use the hashtag More details: http://bit.ly/2uIJJsf | Spools of Filament | 2020.01.31 |
| Make it Glow | Disclaimer: Even though Instructable.com is 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/2qkiqmr | 3D Printer Dremel | 2020.01.27 |
| Assistive Tech | 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/33xnMct | 3D Printer Dremel 3D20 | 2020.01.06 |
| 3December 2019 | Use any tool and workflow you like to create your models. More details: http://bit.ly/384psfU | 3 x $100 Gift Card Sketchfab PRO | 2020.01.01 |
Due to the heavy loading pages, we had to divide a few tables. The older events have been separated out and can be accessed via Resource Library. Please subscribe to get access.
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.
(Image: 3DWithUs)
– 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.
Read More: 30 Day Challenges
If you are active on social media, you may come across weekly, monthly and even yearly challenges, promoted by people you follow. Here you can find 3D Design or 3D Printing related 30 day challenges that are about to start, are ongoing, or happened in the past. We will dig into the subject and find out how 30 day challenges empower designers.
3D Printer Giveaways – Entry for Free 3D Printing Related Products
Did you know that 3D printer giveaways are an often occurrence? Manufacturers, together with community members, frequently organize such promotional events. For them, it is a great opportunity to advertise their products, promote their 3D printing-related channels, and grow the follower base. With minimal effort, participants can obtain their first or additional 3D printer, try new filaments or other 3D printing-related products.
10 thoughts on “3D Printing Competitions – List of Contests”
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.
Hi Alkaios! Thank you for letting us know. We have added the 3D Hubs Student Grant 2019 to the table.
Hey 3DWithUs! There’s also a 3D printing contest designed for multi-color 3D printing. Winner gets a DOBOT MOOZ-3 color-mixing printer(value $599 USD). Deadline to submit 3D printing works is September 26th! It will be helpful if you can list the competition here. Thank you!
Hi Dobot! Thank you for letting us know. We have added the Color-mixing 3D Printing Contest to the table.
Hey 3DWithUs! There’s also a 3D printing design challenge for fast furniture for hurricane recovery. Winner gets $250 USD. Deadline to submit STL files is Aug 8th!
Hi Cat, thank you for letting us know. We have added the Fast Furniture Challenge to the table.
Solvay just launched the Additive Manufacturing Cup. This might be interesting to have registered here.
Thank you Amaury. We have added the Additive Manufacturing Cup competition to the table.
My Precious Plastics – the organizer of the competition is mything.
Thank you Nicolas. We have added My Precious Plastics competition to the table.