Welcome to the
Essential Craftsman Buildoff 2026!

What is the Essential Craftsman Build-Off?

It’s a community competition where makers of all skill levels submit something they’ve built—wood, metal, leather, concrete, electronics… anything. The goal is to celebrate craftsmanship, tell stories, and have fun.

When can I submit my project?

Submissions are open January 1 – June 30, 2025. Winners will be notified via email by July 15th.

Does my project have to be new?

No. You can submit something you’re currently working on or something you’ve already made that took less than 6 months.

How many categories can I enter?

You can enter only one category, so choose carefully.

Categories:

• Best Wood

• Best Metal

• Best Misc

• Most Ridiculous

• Best Video Presentation

(Scott will also pick his personal Top 3 favorites across all entries.)

Do I need to make a video?

A photo is allowed—but a short video helps people understand your project better and makes voting more fun. If you want a shot at Best Video Presentation, make a video.

Who picks the winners?

Anyone and everyone can vote. After you submit your entry, you’ll get a unique link to share so people can vote for you. Public votes determine category winners, and Scott picks his personal Top 3.

What are the prizes?

 See above!

Is the contest only for professionals?

No. We welcome everyone—total first-timers, DIYers, and pros. On the submission form you’ll share your experience level.

Can I enter if I’m under 18?

Yes, but a parent or legal guardian must submit on your behalf.

Is there a fee to enter?

Nope! It’s completely free.

Where do I enter?

Go to: EssentialCraftsman.com/buildoff
Fill out the form, upload your project, and you’re in.

Can I update my submission later?

No—so make sure you’re proud of what you upload.

How do I get votes?

Once you submit, you’ll receive a unique, shareable link. Post it anywhere and ask people to vote. Use the hashtag:
➡️ #ECBuildOff25

Official Rules

1. Eligibility

• Open worldwide.

• If you’re under 18, a parent/guardian must enter for you.

2. Submission Requirements

• Only one entry per person.

• Submit before June 30, 2025 (11:59 PM PST).

• Entry must include at least one photo. A video is optional but encouraged.

3. Allowed Projects

• Any handmade item—big or small.

• Must be made by you (or your team).

• Previously built projects are allowed.

4. Voting

• Public voting opens after the submission window closes.

• Votes may be limited to one per email/IP/device (to prevent spam).

• Public votes select category winners.

5. Judging

• Category winners = decided by public vote.

• Scott’s Top 3 Picks = selected solely by Scott Wadsworth.

6. Conduct

We’re here to have fun. No:

• Harassment or trash talk

• Unsafe or dangerous content attempts

• Misrepresentation (no AI-generated builds, no stolen work)

Submissions may be removed if they violate these guidelines.

7. Use of Submitted Media

By entering, you grant Essential Craftsman the right to share your submission (photo, video, and description) on our platforms with credit.

8. Prizes

Prizes may not be exchanged for cash. Shipping timelines may vary. Winners will be contacted directly via the email provided.

9. Deadline

All entries must be submitted by:
📅 June 30, 2025
No exceptions.

Final Note

This isn’t about being the best—it’s about sharing what you built, learning, having fun, and inspiring others. Whether it’s polished or rough, simple or wild—we want to see it!