Questions about participating in the fridge magnet design competition

MakerWorld
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Hi everyone, I recently saw a fridge magnet design competition on MakerWorld and was very excited to participate. I plan to use my body 3D scanner to scan myself to make a miniature model, and then use 3D printing technology to make a physical fridge magnet. I think this idea is very interesting, but I don’t know the specific requirements for participating. But I have some questions about the requirements and technical details, and I hope you can help me answer them.

1: Participation requirements

  • Is it okay to just upload a mesh model?
    For example, do I only need to upload a 3D mesh model file that meets the requirements (such as STL, OBJ format) to participate?
  • Must it be actually 3D printed?
    Do I need to actually 3D print the finished fridge magnet, then take a photo and upload it or mail it to participate in the physical competition? If so, what is the specific submission method?

2: 3D printing parameters
If it must be actually 3D printed to participate, I would also like to ask some technical details:
Resolution
What resolution do I need to use when printing? Is there a minimum requirement or recommended setting?

  • Material selection
    Are there any material requirements for the entry? For example, do I need to use specific materials such as PLA or ABS?
  • Size restrictions
    Are there any regulations on the size of refrigerator magnets? If so, what is the specific size range?
  • Other considerations
    Does the entry require additional processing or decoration, such as painting, polishing, etc.?
    Do I need to provide design ideas or instructions when submitting my work?

I know there are many experienced friends here, and I hope you can give me some advice and guidance. Thank you very much! I wish you all good design and look forward to seeing all kinds of creative works!

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Is it okay to just upload a mesh model?

Yes, that is allowed. Any combination of mesh file and/or print profile uploads is permitted, although I have not seen anyone win without a print profile.

Must it be actually 3D printed?

The contest rules say no, but the general community guidelines say yes, leading to inconsistency. Some participants upload without an actual print and get away with it, while others don’t. The report functionality includes a specific topic for “no actual print image,” so it is highly recommended to provide an image of an actual print. In fact, I think I have only seen one model without an actual print image that won a prize.

Resolution
What resolution do I need to use when printing? Is there a minimum requirement or recommended setting?

No requirements, no minimum resolution.

Material selection
Are there any material requirements for the entry?

No.

Size restrictions
Are there any regulations on the size of refrigerator magnets? If so, what is the specific size range?

No.

Other considerations
Does the entry require additional processing or decoration, such as painting, polishing, etc.?
Do I need to provide design ideas or instructions when submitting my work?

If additional steps are required, mention them, but you are not obligated to paint your models. While design ideas are not mandatory, they can enhance the appeal of your model. Similarly, instructions are not compulsory, but if they are needed, providing them is highly recommended. A well-presented model includes all relevant information and is part of the judging criteria.

1 Like
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Thank you very much for providing such a detailed response!

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Hi ado, thanks for asking. To answer your questions:

  1. We highly recommend that you upload an actual printed model with your own print profile to participate in our contests, this will elevate your chances of winning or getting more exposure from our contests.
  2. We have no strict limitations on materials, sizes or coloring of participating models, as long as it’s 3D printable. We welcome our contestants to provide any ideas or anecdotes associated with these models. If your models require assemble procedures, please be sure to include proper instructions in the description.