Frequently Asked Questions
Answers about materials, GPX uploads, Strava, engraving, shipping, and gifting.
Getting started
What is a Print My Routes sculpture?
A Print My Routes sculpture is a custom 3D topographic model of a real GPS route — a run, hike, ride, ski day, or race rendered as a physical object from elevation data. Each piece is 3D printed in PLA and designed for desk or shelf display.
What file formats can I upload?
The designer accepts GPX files. You can export a GPX from Strava, Garmin Connect, AllTrails, Komoot, and most GPS apps. Alternatively, connect your Strava account to import activities directly without downloading a file.
How do I export a GPX from Strava?
On the Strava website, open the activity, click the three-dot menu, and select Export GPX. Save the file, then upload it at printmyroutes.com/custom. You can also connect your Strava account directly in the designer.
What material are the sculptures made from?
Sculptures are 3D printed in PLA (polylactic acid) — a durable, lightweight, plant-derived material. They're designed for indoor display and are available in multiple colors.
What sizes are available?
Multiple sizes are available and can be selected during the design step. Size options are shown in the designer once your route is loaded.
Can I add engraving to my sculpture?
Yes. You can add custom engraving — a name, race date, finishing time, or short personal message — to the base of the sculpture during the design step.
Can I order a sculpture as a gift?
Yes. Print My Routes sculptures are a popular gift for runners, hikers, cyclists, and skiers — especially for milestone races, first marathons, completed ultras, or a season of laps at a favorite resort. You can ship directly to a gift recipient and add a personal engraving. Gift cards are also available at printmyroutes.com/gift-cards.
Can I print a ski route or ski resort?
Yes. Upload a GPX from a ski day — or search a resort like Snowbasin — and we'll print the terrain and your line as a 3D topographic sculpture, the same way we do for marathons, trails, and rides.
Do you offer catalog products for specific races?
Yes. Over 500 iconic races and trails have pre-designed catalog sculptures — including Boston Marathon, Chicago Marathon, Leadville 100, Hardrock 100, and many international events. Search by race name in the designer at printmyroutes.com/custom.
Do you offer bulk orders for race directors or running clubs?
Yes. Print My Routes offers bulk ordering for race finisher awards, club gifts, and corporate events. Visit printmyroutes.com/bulk-orders or contact the team at printmyroutes.com/contact for pricing and lead times.
How does shipping work?
Free shipping is available on orders over $100. Sculptures are made to order, so production time applies before shipment. Exact shipping estimates are shown at checkout based on your location.
Shipping & Delivery
How long does shipping take?
Standard orders ship within 7-14 business days. Custom route orders may take an additional 3-5 days for processing. We'll send you a tracking number as soon as your order ships.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes! We ship to over 127 countries worldwide. International shipping typically takes 10-21 business days depending on your location. Customs fees and import duties may apply and are the responsibility of the recipient.
How much does shipping cost?
We offer free standard shipping on all orders over $100 within the United States. For orders under $100, shipping starts at $9.95. International shipping rates vary by destination and are calculated at checkout.
Can I track my order?
Absolutely! Once your order ships, you'll receive an email with a tracking number. You can use this to track your package on our website or directly through the carrier's website.
Do you offer expedited shipping?
Yes, we offer express shipping options at checkout. Express orders are prioritized in production and ship via expedited carriers. Please note that custom route orders still require processing time before shipping.
What carriers do you use?
We primarily use USPS, UPS, and FedEx for domestic shipments. International orders are shipped via DHL or local postal services depending on the destination.
Returns & Exchanges
What is your return policy?
We offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee on all standard route sculptures. If you're not completely happy with your purchase, contact us within 30 days of delivery for a full refund or exchange.
Can I return a custom order?
Due to the personalized nature of custom route orders, we cannot accept returns unless there is a defect or error on our part. We encourage you to carefully review your route preview before placing your order.
How do I initiate a return?
To start a return, email us at returns@printmyroutes.com with your order number and reason for return. We'll provide you with a prepaid return label and instructions within 24-48 hours.
What if my sculpture arrives damaged?
We carefully package every sculpture, but if your item arrives damaged, please contact us immediately with photos of the damage. We'll send a replacement at no additional cost.
How long do refunds take to process?
Once we receive your returned item, refunds are processed within 5-7 business days. The refund will be credited to your original payment method. Please allow an additional 3-5 days for the refund to appear on your statement.
Can I exchange for a different size or color?
Yes! We're happy to exchange your sculpture for a different size, color, or material. Contact us within 30 days of delivery to arrange an exchange. You'll only pay the difference if upgrading to a larger size or premium material.
Care Instructions
How do I clean my route sculpture?
Gently dust your sculpture with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. For stubborn dust, use a soft-bristled brush. Avoid using water, cleaning chemicals, or abrasive materials as they may damage the finish.
Can I display my sculpture outdoors?
Our sculptures are designed for indoor display only. Exposure to direct sunlight, rain, extreme temperatures, or humidity can cause warping, fading, or damage to the material.
How should I store my sculpture?
Store your sculpture in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If storing long-term, wrap it in acid-free tissue paper and place it in a box to protect from dust and accidental damage.
Will the colors fade over time?
Our PLA material is UV-resistant, but prolonged exposure to direct sunlight may cause gradual fading. For best results, display your sculpture away from windows or use UV-filtering glass if framing.
What if my sculpture gets scratched?
Minor scratches on PLA sculptures can sometimes be buffed out with a soft cloth. For deeper scratches or damage, contact us for repair options or replacement recommendations.
Are the materials eco-friendly?
We print with PLA+, a plant-based thermoplastic that's more sustainable than traditional petroleum-based plastics. PLA+ is durable, lightweight, and produces excellent detail for topographic sculptures. We're committed to sustainable practices in our production process.
Custom Orders
What file formats do you accept?
We accept .GPX files from most GPS devices and apps including Garmin, Strava, Apple Watch, Coros, Suunto, and more. You can also paste a direct link to your public Strava activity.
How long does a custom order take?
Custom route orders typically take 10-18 business days from order to delivery. This includes 3-5 days for route processing and model creation, plus standard production and shipping time.
Can I add text or engraving to my sculpture?
Yes! You can add personalized engraving to the base of your sculpture for an additional $15. Popular options include your name, finish time, race date, or a short personal message (up to 50 characters).
What if my GPX file has errors?
Our team reviews every custom route for quality. If we notice issues with your GPS data (gaps, spikes, or errors), we'll reach out to discuss options before proceeding with production.
Can I preview my route before ordering?
Yes! After uploading your GPX file, you'll see a preview of your route rendered as a 3D model. You can rotate and zoom to inspect the details before adding to cart.
Is there a minimum or maximum route length?
We can print routes from 1 mile to 500+ miles. Very short routes may have less visual detail, while extremely long routes may require simplification to fit the sculpture dimensions. Our team will advise if adjustments are needed.
Products & Materials
What sizes are available?
We offer three sizes: Small (4" / 10cm), Medium (6" / 15cm), and Large (8" / 20cm). The size refers to the longest dimension of the sculpture. Exact dimensions vary based on the route shape.
What materials are used for your 3D printed maps and terrain models?
We print exclusively with PLA+ — a durable, plant-based material with a smooth matte finish. It's lightweight, UV-stable, and available in 12+ colors. Perfect for 3D topographic maps, mountain art, and hiking trail map sculptures.
What colors are available?
Standard colors include White, Black, and Matte Gold. We offer 12+ color options in total, and custom colors are available for an additional fee.
What base styles do you offer?
Choose from three base styles: Minimal Flat Base (sleek, modern look), Wooden Display Base (premium walnut or oak), or Floating Wall Mount (for wall display without a base).
How detailed are the elevation changes?
Our sculptures capture elevation changes with remarkable accuracy. Hills, climbs, and descents are all visible in the 3D model. The vertical scale is slightly exaggerated to make elevation changes more visible and dramatic.
Are the sculptures fragile?
Our PLA sculptures are durable for normal handling and display. However, thin sections of the route may be delicate. We recommend handling with care and keeping away from edges where they could be knocked over.
Gifts & Special Orders
Do you offer gift wrapping?
Yes! We offer premium gift wrapping for $8.95. Your sculpture will arrive in an elegant gift box with tissue paper and a ribbon. You can also include a personalized gift message at no extra charge.
Can I send a gift directly to someone else?
Absolutely! During checkout, you can enter a different shipping address. Select the gift wrapping option and add a personal message. We'll never include pricing information in gift shipments.
Do you sell gift cards? What are the best gifts for runners, hikers, and skiers?
Yes! Digital gift cards are available from $50 to $500 — the perfect gift for runners, hikers, cyclists, and skiers. Gift cards are delivered via email, never expire, and can be used for any product including custom 3D topographic maps, mountain art, marathon route maps, and ski sculptures.
Do you offer bulk or corporate orders?
Yes! We work with race organizers, running clubs, and corporations for bulk orders. Contact us at bulk@printmyroutes.com for custom pricing and lead times on orders of 10+ sculptures.
Can I order a sculpture for a race that hasn't happened yet?
Yes! If the race course is publicly available, we can create a 3D topographic map of the marathon route. This makes a great pre-race marathon gift, hiking gift, or adventure gift. Contact us with the race details.
Do you offer rush orders for gifts?
We offer expedited production for time-sensitive gifts. Rush orders are prioritized and can ship within 5-7 business days (standard routes only). Additional fees apply. Contact us for availability.