More chances to win!

These special prizes in the Amazing Model Contest are provided by some of our sponsors to encourage participation and recognize outstanding efforts.

Amazing Figure Modeler Magazine
Most AMAZING Figure
$300 CASH PRIZE
Judged & presented by AFM, the contest sponsor.
Visit their web site.

Matt’s Models Customs
Best 3D Printed Entry
PRIZES: 3D printer and a special plaque
Judged and presented by Matt Mrozek.

Round 2 Models
Best use of a Round 2 Model Kit – Adult Division
$100 CREDIT to Auto World Store

Black Heart & Badger Airbrush
Best Bust
Best 1:1 Scale Bust
SPECIAL AWARDS
Judged & presented by Black Heart & Badger.
Visit their web site.

Alternative Images
Best Horror
SPECIAL PRIZE
Sponsored by Alternative Images.
Visit their web site.

GarageKits.US
Best Superhero/Super Villain
SPECIAL PRIZE
Sponsored by GarageKits.US.
Visit their web site.

Arsenal Models
Best Prop
SPECIAL PRIZE & Gift Certificate
Sponsored by Arsenal Models.
Visit their web site.

Kaiju Modeler
Killer Kaiju
SPECIAL PRIZE
Sponsored by Kaijumodeler.com.
Visit their web site.

Hodge Hobbies
Best Anime Figure
MERCHANDISE PRIZES
Sponsored by Hodge Hobbies.
No web site available.

TAG Team Hobbies
Best Out-Of-Box Mecha
Best Out-Of-Box Spaceship
Best Sci-Fi Modeling School
SPECIAL PRIZE
Sponsored by TAG Team Hobbies.
Visit their web site.

Filmy’s Girls & Futuristic Retro
Best Babe
SPECIAL PRIZE
Sponsored by Filmy Girls & Futuristic Retro.
No web site available.

Mad Lab Models
Best Humor/Superdeformed
SPECIAL TROPHY
Sponsored by Mike Parks/Mad Lab Models.
No web site available.

C.O.M.M.I.E.S.
Best Example of Something We Like
SPECIAL AWARD
Sponsored by Colorado Modeling Militia Enjoying Sci-Fi.
Visit their web site.

Iwata Airbrush
Best of Teen Division
SPECIAL PRIZE
Sponsored by Iwata Airbrush.
Visit their web site.

Best of Junior Division
SPECIAL PRIZE
Sponsor to be announced.

The Official Contest Rules:

Our mission: Encourage the hobby and create the ultimate showcase for modeling excellence!

Exclusions: Winning models from past WonderFest model contests may not be re-entered. WonderFest staff, contest core personnel, judges and sponsors are prohibited from entering contest.

Proxies: Model must be built & painted by modeler entering contest. Entries by proxy are allowed but must be declared to Contest Officials in advance (violators will be disqualified).

Size: Entries should not exceed our size limitation of 18″d x 24″w x 24″h. Larger entries are allowed, but any piece larger than 48″d x 48″w x 36″h requires that you first contact the contest chief so we are prepared.

“Mature” Subjects: Due to the family nature of the WonderFest experience, it is show policy that models depicting nudity and those containing violent or “adult” subject matter will not be accepted for entry. Figures are subject to review for content by the Contest Chief.

Entry of models: Modelers must neatly print all information on Entry Form (please ask questions if you do not understand). Modeler is allowed to place their own model on contest table, but MUST be accompanied by contest usher, who will give you a claim check. Modeler MUST immediately exit contest area after placement of entry.

Removal of models: Once entered, models cannot be removed from contest early. Early removal automatically disqualifies entrant. After the awards presentation, proper claim check must be shown to usher who will accompany you to remove model (no exceptions.)

Disputes: All Judges’ decisions are final.

Liability: WonderFest assumes no liability or responsibility in case of accidents involving models or for property lost, stolen or damaged. Entries unclaimed after 6 p.m. on Sunday will be turned over to the hotel’s Lost & Found desk.

How a Model is Judged:

Most model contests are judged on a 1st, 2nd and 3rd system—a WonderFest contest is not!

The Open System: Every model entered is carefully scrutinized by the judges and judged on its own merit.

WonderFest judging is based on the open system. This means each and every model is judged on its own merit, based on our established criteria for gold, silver, and bronze…not on a comparative scale with other models. There can be more than one of each type of award per category.

For example, if there are three models of equal merit in a category and the judges agree that all are gold material then all three models will be awarded golds. On the other hand if the judges feel there are no gold-caliber models in a category then none will be awarded. That goes for silver and bronze as well. There can be multiple awards or no awards given in a category depending on the judges’ discretion.

WonderFest feels the open system is fairer to modelers. In a large contest having single categories with more than 60 models, this frees the judges from being forced to recognize only three winners. Models entered in figure categories will be judged primarily on the figure alone even if displayed on a scenic base; models entered in the diorama category will be judged with emphasis on the entire scene. It is the modeler’s option to choose the category at the time of entering the contest.

Helpful tips for contest entrants

Here’s what our judges look for:

Basic work is the first thing the judges will check. There should be no seams visible. Joints, etc. should be filled where necessary. Glue marks are considered a flaw, and sanding scratches should be eliminated.

Scratchbuilt or modified parts are looked upon favorably (though good out-of-the-box work is not discounted). Additions should be correct in scale and uniform. If the entire entry is scratchbuilt, overall appearance and symmetry will be examined.

Decals, if used, should have a finish that does not show any film around the edges. Also, decals applied over flat paints can get a “silvered” appearance, and this is judged poorly. If a flat finish is the result you’re after, apply decals over gloss-painted surfaces and then flat-coat the model.

Weathering should not be overdone when used. Weathering should be in scale. Too much can make for a sloppy-looking finish.

Painting should be smooth with no visible brush strokes. Fingerprints, runs, smudges, cracks, etc. will all detract. While colors can vary due to the fantasy subjects one should keep in mind which colors complement one other. Models from movies or television should try to match on-screen appearance.

Skin tones are also important. Few modelers use flesh tones straight from the bottle. Usually skin tones are mixed from two or three different colors. Be careful of hard lines when doing washes. Dry brushing should be subtle when doing highlighting.

One big consideration for a winning figure is the eyes. Human, monster, or dinosaur—get the eyes right and your kit will come alive.

Overall presentation is also very important. The base and mount for any kit should enhance its appearance rather than possibly detract from the model. A model can also have a “WOW” factor. Judges are human, too. Kits that make them look twice because of dynamics and presentation may receive better marks—and a dynamic kit may be more easily “forgiven” for minor technical errors.

Finally, remember that judging is a subjective exercise. Some things may appeal to some judges that may not to others. At WonderFest, we strive to put the right judges with the right subjects.