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FAQ

  • What age group of children are the models recommended for?
    Yes, children can build some of the easier Ugears mechanical models on their own, or assemble some of the more complex puzzles with an adult’s assistance. For kids ages 8+, Ugears have mini model kits and also a special STEM Lab collection that shows the workings of commonly used mechanisms. We definitely can say that a child of 14 years old can assemble our models. Sometimes they will need parents’ or grandparents' assistance. Our mission is to give people of all ages, especially families, the enjoyment of creating something beautiful together.
  • What material are the models made of?
    All the models are made of ecological art-quality plywood, each model assembles easily without the need for glue or special tools.
  • Do I need to cut the parts out of a board?
    No, the parts are laser pre-cut, you should just press them out of the board from. They are connected with small crosspieces. If you have some difficulties to remove a part, you can carefully cut the crosspiece with a knife.
  • What we recommend for assembly?
    When removing parts from the laser pre-cut boards, press from the side with the thicker cut lines. We recommend checking all gears and moving parts for burrs and sand them if necessary with the included sandpaper, as rough edges or protruding burrs may jam the mechanism. When assembling, wax all gears that need to rub against each other or move, with the provided candle wax for smoother operation. In a kit you will find the respective wooden components and toothpicks. Depending on the model kit, you may also find rubber bands, metal spring, fishing line or stickers. A pocket knife, candle and sandpaper can be useful when assembling. To install a rubber band into a tiny opening, stretch the rubber band to make it thinner. If you are not confident you are doing the right thing check with our provided illustrated colour step-by-step guide. Apply candle wax abundantly and make sure you fit the right detail where it belongs correctly, as sometimes parts with different numbers can look very similar. If it still feels that the part does not fit right do not try to push it in forcefully, remember the old candle wax once again. If you experience difficulty inserting a toothpick into the cogwheel, apply some candle wax to the toothpick. You can also grease the axles of the sprocket before installing them into the frame to minimize friction during rotation. We recommend assembling the model in the order specified in our step-by-step assembly instructions. We know how tempting doing it according to your own ideas can be and how easy it is to get carried away putting parts together, but there is a risk of getting mixed up: fitting a detail incorrectly might result in malfunction of the mechanical mechanism. Going back and disassembling parts of the model can be frustrating.
  • Do I need any tools to assemble Ugears models?
    No, everything you need for assembly is already included in the box. Ugears models can be built without the need for any additional tools or glue. Sometimes a modeling knife can be helpful to remove pieces from their boards, or to smooth or remove burrs, but punch pieces and sandpaper are also included in the kits to help with these same tasks.
  • Is it possible to paint or stain the model?
    Yes, you can paint, stain or decorate Ugears models. We recommend using one of the following: oil-based paint pens, acrylic paint markers with wide and pointy tips, acrylic paints, spray paints, wood stains. Some paints or stains will absorb into the wood and make it swell, which can affect the mechanisms We recommend to apply it in thin layers.
  • Spare and replacement parts for Ugears mechanical models
    The kits are made of plywood, and include other materials like metal springs, rubber bands, marbles and other parts, depending on the model. A few "spare" or extra parts are included, particularly for pieces of which there are multiples used in the build. If you happen to break one or more unique pieces during assembly, you can request free replacement parts by providing the following details. Your Ugears model kit name; Part Numbers and photos of the damaged/broken parts; The address you want your replacement parts to be delivered to. The spare parts are shipped directly from our manufacturer, so it will take few weeks for them to reach you.
  • What if I have more questions?
    For any additional questions please contact us by sending us a chat message or email on designsmickey@gmail.com Mickey Designs will be happy to provide tips, explanations, troubleshooting or other help with the assembly.
  • Wooden puzzles for kids - Age 5+
    Our puzzles are specially designed to provide a fun and educational gaming experience tailored to the age and interests of children. Made from high-quality wood, our wooden puzzles for children are durable and safe to handle. They are available in a variety of attractive themes. These puzzles are designed with pieces that are perfectly sized for children’s small hands, making them easy to grasp and manipulate. They stimulate the development of cognitive skills, hand-eye coordination, and problem-solving abilities in children. By assembling the puzzle pieces, children enhance their concentration, visual memory, and ability to recognize shapes and colors. Our wooden puzzles for children are not only entertaining games but also valuable learning tools. They promote the development of cognitive, motor, and social skills while providing children with hours of fun and satisfaction as they complete the puzzles and discover the final images.
  • 3D Wooden coloring kits - Age 7+
    Our kits offer a creative and playful activity for children and adults. They typically include pre-cut wooden pieces, brushes, acrylic paints, and detailed instructions to guide the painting process. Wooden paint kits are perfect for fostering creativity, hand-eye coordination, and artistic skills. They allow individuals to personalize their own artwork using different painting techniques, color blending, and patterns. Wooden paint kits are ideal for gifts, family activities, birthday parties, and art workshops. They provide a fun and rewarding experience while allowing participants to express their individuality and artistic talent.
  • What to do with missing spare parts?
    We take quality control very seriously, puzzles are produced in small batches, and each puzzle is checked for piece count before it leaves our warehouse, so start by assuming the piece is somewhere in your living room. With wooden puzzles in particular, it can feel like a piece is missing as you near the end of the puzzle. It’s actually a good sign. If you are convinced that a piece is missing, but in the end you are able to complete the puzzle, this is just the challenge! If you get to the end and a piece of the puzzle is missing, please do the following before contacting us: 1. Carefully search the area where you were assembling the puzzle (puzzle pieces have been known to end up under tables, chairs, sofas, etc.). Don’t forget to check between the couch cushions. 2. Also look for it in the nearby areas where the part may have traveled. Many wooden puzzles have small, intricately shaped pieces that can easily snag on a sweater or sleeve. 3. Ask family members, friends or pets who seem guilty. 4. Wait at least a week for the missing piece to reappear – it usually does! So… If you’re still missing a piece, here’s what to do. Provide us with the following details and be sure to send a photo of the problem. Name and Surname Email Mobile number Puzzle model name Delivery address
  • How to attach the wooden world map to the wall?
    Our maps come with special double-sided tape strong enough to hold the map pieces to the wall.
  • Is it possible to remove the wooden map from the wall and reassemble it without damaging it?
    If you want to remove it from your wall, you will need a hair dryer. Direct the airflow between a piece of map and the wall, wait a little and remove them one by one. To reinstall the map, you will need to buy more tape, the old one will not work.
  • What should I do to take care of the wooden map?
    There are no specific rules. However, there are a few recommendations: avoid placing the map in humid areas or exposed to direct sunlight and avoid applying abrasive substances to its surface.
  • I want to order several wooden maps
    Write to us at designsmickey@gmail.com and you will receive a personalized quote within few days.
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