Ready, Set, Print! Why You Should Enter the 3D Printed Derby at 3DPrintopia 2026

Aug 3
2 min read

If you love 3D printing, engineering, or friendly competition, there's one event at 3DPrintopia 2026 that deserves a spot on your calendar—the 3D Printed Derby. Imagine designing your own race car, printing it on your 3D printer, fine-tuning every detail, and then watching it race down the track against creations from makers across the country. That's exactly what makes the 3D Printed Derby one of the most exciting attractions at 3DPrintopia.

What Is the 3D Printed Derby?

Inspired by the classic Pinewood Derby, this competition challenges participants to design and build a race car using 3D printing technology. Instead of simply assembling a kit, competitors get to use their creativity, engineering skills, and CAD design knowledge to create something truly unique.

According to the published rules, the main chassis of the car must be 3D printed, while racers work within size and weight limits to create the fastest design possible. The emphasis is on designing and printing your own car, making this an incredible showcase of creativity and problem-solving.

A Perfect STEM Challenge

Whether you're a student, parent, hobbyist, engineer, or lifelong maker, the derby offers a fun way to put STEM skills into practice.

Participants can learn about:

CAD design
Engineering principles
Weight distribution
Aerodynamics
Material selection
3D printer settings
Iterative design and testing

Every adjustment becomes a learning opportunity, and every race teaches something new.

Great for Homeschool Families

If you're a homeschooling family looking for an engaging STEM project, the 3D Printed Derby could become an exciting goal to work toward together. Designing a derby car naturally combines science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. Students can sketch ideas, learn CAD software, experiment with different print settings, test prototypes, collect data, and improve their designs before race day.

While we couldn't find any published rule specifically addressing homeschool participation or out-of-state entrants, the event welcomes visitors from across the United States and internationally. If you're interested in competing, it's a great idea to contact the event organizers directly to confirm eligibility and any registration requirements.

It's About More Than Winning

One of the best parts of maker events like 3DPrintopia is the community.

Even if your car doesn't finish first, you'll meet fellow makers, exchange ideas, discover new printing techniques, and see incredible designs from people who share your passion for 3D printing. Many attendees say that the friendships and inspiration are just as rewarding as the competition itself.

Start Designing Now

With 3DPrintopia 2026 taking place September 26–27 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, now is the perfect time to begin designing your derby racer.

Print a prototype, test it, make improvements, and see how much performance you can squeeze out of your design before race day.

Who knows? Your next print might be the fastest one on the track.

To learn more about the event, derby rules, registration details, and everything else happening during 3DPrintopia, visit the official website at https://3dprintopia.com/derby/.

Happy designing—and may the fastest print win!