PAINTING competitions
Our annual painting competitions are back for the Expo in 2026. See below for a detailed breakdown of each category and what we’ll be looking for in entries.
All our painting competitions will be on Saturday the 7th of March.
Keep scrolling for details on when and where to drop off your entries and when winners will be announced too.
JOURNEYMAN
CHALLENGE
The journeyman painting challenge is for 90% of painters and hobbyists.
Entries will be judged on technical competence, narrative imagery, kitbashing or conversion work and basing scheme.
Whether it’s your favourite battlefield general or your first 1:72 Spitfire, all entries are welcome.*
MASTER PAINTER
COMPETITION
The Master Painter Competition is a true test of skill for display painters.
Entries will be judged on technical competence, advanced painting techniques and composition.
We recommend only entering the Master Painter Competition if you are a longtime painter or have experience with display painting.
YOUNGBLOOD
CHALLENGE
The Youngblood Challenge is for painters under the age of 16
Entries will be judged on technical competence, narrative imagery, kitbashing or conversion work and basing scheme.
There will be additional certificates for judge’s favourite entries.
DIORAMA
CHALLENGE
If painting just one figure or model doesn’t entice you then you should try the Diorama Challenge!
Entries will be judged on technical competence, narrative imagery/composition, kitbashing or conversion work and individuality.
Entries must resemble a Diorama or Scenic Display to be eligible.
*Should judges deem your painting skill to be more suited, they may move your entry from the “Journeyman Challenge” to the “Master Painter” competition in the interest of fairness.
entry and winners
All painting competition entries must be in on Saturday 7th before 12pm
Winners will be announced on Saturday 7th at 4pm
Entries can be left on display in the venue until 2pm on Sunday 8th
Bedford Tabletop Expo and Hobby Hive can take no responsibility for damages or loss that occurs on the premises but are fully insured in the event of accidents