3D Print Model Challenge: Functional Prints

Awards & Prizes

The total reward is $1,800 in cash prizes, split between the top entries:

• 1st place - $600
• 2nd place - $400
• 3rd place - $300
• 4th place - $200
• 5th place - $100
• Community Favorite - $200

Winners announced: March 9, 2026

• The Functional Prints 3D Print Model Challenge runs from January 9 to March 1, 2026. Winners will be announced on March 9, 2026.
• Participation is free and open worldwide. Participants must have a CGTrader account, accept the CGTrader Terms & Conditions, and complete KYC verification to receive prize payouts.
• Each valid submission must be an original, 3D print-ready model created by the participant and uploaded to CGTrader during the challenge period.
• Submissions must be Hobby & DIY–focused functional 3D prints, designed to build, fix, organize, modify, or upgrade real-world tools, workspaces, vehicles, electronics, or hobby projects.
• Each entry must include at least one real photo of the physical printed model in use (a “make”). The printed make image is one of the most important judging elements.
• The hobby-challenge tag must be added when uploading the model to officially join the challenge.
• Only new models uploaded during the contest period are eligible. Previously uploaded models are not allowed, even if modified.
• Submissions must be clearly printable and suitable for real-world use. Decorative-only, conceptual, or non-functional models may be removed.
• Branded, copyrighted, or trademarked content is not allowed. Models must not reference protected characters, logos, or intellectual property.
• Adult or explicit content is not allowed.
• Participants may submit multiple entries, provided each submission meets all challenge requirements.
• Entries that do not comply with these rules (e.g. not functional, not Hobby & DIY related, not printable, previously published, branded, or missing a printed make) may be removed or disqualified without notice.
• Teams and legal entities may participate.
• Prize winners are responsible for any taxes or duties required by local laws. Where required, CGTrader will withhold taxes from prize payments.
• By participating, you agree that CGTrader may use submission images for marketing and promotional purposes, including social media, newsletters, web features, and the CGTrader blog.
• CGTrader reserves the right to disqualify entries that violate the challenge rules or contain inappropriate content.

Printability. The model must be fully 3D printable and function as intended.

Creativity & Theme Fit. Originality, problem-solving approach, and how effectively the model addresses a real Hobby & DIY use case through functional design and printability.

Quality of the Printed Make. The photo of the actual printed object is the most important element of the entry.

Presentation. Renderings are optional, but if included, they should be clear and visually appealing. Good descriptions and relevant tags also help during the judging process.

In addition to the judged prizes, a Community Favorite Award ($200) will go to the qualifying model that receives the most hearts from the CGTrader community on the model page.

Our panel of judges is comprised of experienced 3D professionals from CGTrader.

1. Do I need to upload files or only images of my 3D design?

You must upload a 3D print-ready file (your printable model) and at least one photo of your physical printed make to participate.

2. Are renderings required?

No. The most important part of your entry is the photo of the printed make. Renderings are optional, but if you include them, make sure they are clear and well-presented.

3. Do I lose copyright to my 3D print file after uploading?

No. You always retain copyright to your 3D print model. CGTrader licenses simply define how buyers may use your file - you maintain full ownership.

4. How can I participate in the challenge?

To participate, create a CGTrader account, accept the Terms & Conditions, create an original Hobby & DIY functional 3D print model, upload it to the CGTrader Marketplace with at least one photo of the printed make, and tag the model with hobby-challenge when uploading.

5. What if I tag one of my old 3D print models with “christmas-challenge”?

It will not count. Only new 3D print models uploaded between January 9 and March 1, 2026 will be considered valid entries.

6. Do free 3D print models qualify for the challenge?

Yes. Free 3D print files are welcome and judged equally.

7. Can I enter with 3D print models that participated in contests elsewhere?

Yes, as long as the model has never been uploaded to CGTrader before. Only new uploads qualify.

8. Does the price I set for my 3D print file affect judging?

No. Judging is based on creativity, printability, and presentation, not the price.

9. Can I delete an older 3D print model and re-upload it during the challenge?

No. Deleted and re-uploaded models are tracked. Only brand-new models uploaded during the challenge dates are eligible.

10. Can I submit more than one 3D print entry?

Yes. You can upload as many print-ready models as you like, as long as each one meets all rules.

11. What is the Community Favorite award and how is it chosen?

The Community Favorite prize ($200) goes to the 3D print model that receives the most hearts from the CGTrader community on the model page.

12. Are branded or copyrighted characters allowed?

No. Your 3D print model may be inspired by Christmas aesthetics, but branded items, copyrighted characters, logos, or trademarked designs will not compete.

13. Do I need verification to receive prizes?

Yes. Winners must complete standard KYC verification before prize payouts. This ensures secure and compliant reward distribution.