NEW MUSEUM 3D-DESIGN CHALLENGE

Ever wish you could simply print yourself an object? That dream can become a reality for the winner of the MakerBot Challenge, a design competition conceived by 2009 startup MakerBot Industries, famed inventors of a desk-sized 3D printer called a Thing-O-Matic. Done in partnership with the New Museum, through Oct. 31, 2011, the contest asks interested members of the creative community to submit a “derivative” design for an everyday object -- from a simple toothbrush to a complex bicycle gear -- that “improves on or challenges existing design conventions.” Submissions must be accompanied by a statement about the design, and guidelines for applicants are listed on the MakerBot website.

Once the esteemed jury, comprised of nameless New Museum- and MakerBot-ers, has reviewed all applications, the winner has the distinct honor of seeing his or her design printed on a MakerBot Thing-O-Matic and displayed in the New Museum’s Bowery-facing window, as well as receiving a New Museum Deluxe Membership (worth $400) and his very own Thing-O-Matic Kit, a $1,299 value!

That’s not all: the competition’s five runners-up will get to see their designs printed by MakerBot, too -- and sent to them in the mail. You can’t lose!

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