FAQ

Important

When does this program end?

Currently, the end-date of Blueprint is March 31st, 2026. You'll have time afterwards to spend your tickets.

What kind of projects can I make?

You can make anything related to hardware where you put majority of the work in making the hardware side of the project. This includes things like keyboards, 3D printers and custom pcbs. Projects like home servers where you are mainly working on the software aspect are not allowed for Blueprint. If you are ever unsure of what your project may be considered as, ask in #blueprint on the Hack Club slack

How can I earn tickets?

Project grants are awarded on quality rather than hours spent. However, if you track your time building your project after getting your grant (or all the time if you don't need a grant), you will be awarded with tickets which can be redeemed at the toolbag. If your project doesn't have a lot of in-person build time, you will have fewer tickets awarded. One way to get more tickets for example is to get PCB + Components and hand-solder rather than just getting PCBA.

Tickets are rewarded based on the effort you spent BUILDING your project, not the time spent DESIGNING it!

How long may reviews take?

Reviews may vary in time! They can take a week or more. We try to review as soon as possible :)

How many projects can I make?

As many as you like! We just ask that you only do one of each starter project.

I don't have a soldering iron. How can I get one?

You can get one as a part of Hackpad!

Complete this form if the amount on your HCB card is not enough for you to complete your Blueprint project. If you need more funding from us, or are looking to add your own funds

https://forms.hackclub.com/blueprint-topup

Int'l fulfillment logistics

Will I get a soldering iron mailed to me, or will I get a grant for it?

Most people will have a soldering iron mailed directly to them (mainly India, the United States, and Canada). Some people will receive a grant instead. This depends on whether a soldering iron can be sourced in your country.

How long does it take to receive a soldering iron?

Fulfillment usually happens within a week of your request, but currently will take longer (due to Prototype). Delivery typically takes 1–3 weeks once shipped.

Can I track my soldering iron shipment?

No, tracking is not available.
If it’s been more than two weeks since your project was accepted and you still haven’t received your soldering iron, you may ping @Jay , @Tanuki, or @nimit to check on it. Please do not DM before two weeks have passed.

How do I top-up my grant?

If you need a topup for your approved project, use this topup form: https://forms.hackclub.com/blueprint-topup

What tier is my project? What about X idea, or Y?

We can’t give you an estimate until you design out your project. You can have a really complex idea, but if it is not polished, it will be a lower tier.

Does my project need to have a PCB?

Not at all. Unless you’re going advanced, most projects don't need pcbs, and we encourage that you hand wire components!

Does Blueprint allow group projects?

Yes! However, only one person can submit the project and access the journal.

Can I buy parts myself and get reimbursed later?

This depends on a case-by-case basis. Please ask in #blueprint-support before you make any purchases as some things you buy may not get approved or your whole project may not be eligible for blueprint.

Can I get reimbursed for 3D Printed parts!

Yep! We will partially reimburse you to the nearest 250g of filament.

Can I submit an existing project or one that I previously started?

If it's already finished, unfortunately not, sorry! Start a new project.
If you've just started/are in the middle of designing, you need to have journaled the entire process beforehand.

If you're almost done designing, unfortunately not.

Can I double dip with Summer of Making or any other Hack Club program?

No! Double-dipping is not allowed. If you have coding time for your project, you can journal it, get tickets, and get prizes from the tool bag.

How much money can I spend on my project

You can spend up to the budget based on your quality tier which is outlined in custom projects. If you need over this amount, you can use your own money. Also see this about Hack Club and cost.

How will I get my 3D printed parts?

Through printing legion! It's an international network of Hack Clubbers 3D printing for each other! Check out their website

How likely is it that my project will be approved?

It's hard to say without seeing your project, but generally speaking, as long as you follow the guidelines on the submitting page for your project then you're more than likely to be approved!

Are hackatime-banned individuals allowed to participate?

Sorry, No!

Can we use tools like Ergogen?

You're free to use it to experiment with layouts and make design decisions, but the actual placement of the footprints and schematic has to be done manually by you.

Can I journal research?

Yes!

Can I use auto-routing software?

No. You must do your routing manually.

How can I contribute?

PRs are accepted and appreciated! If you can make art, DM @CAN on Slack! We appreciate all help :)