Here you will find answers to the questions we are asked most often — about the models, ordering, returns and spare parts. If your question is missing, write to us via the contact form.
About the models
What is UGEARS?
UGEARS is a brand of mechanical wooden model kits. The parts are made of laser-cut plywood and slot together without glue. With most models, the result is a working mechanism — spring drive, rubber-band motor, pendulum or crank. Explained in detail in What are UGEARS models?
Do I need glue or tools?
No. The parts slot together and are pressed out of the board with your fingers. Sandpaper and wax are useful for edges and moving parts; some models include both. More in Glue, tools, batteries.
Do the models need batteries?
Most work purely mechanically. Models with lights or a motor need batteries or a USB power supply; neither is included. What a model needs is stated on its product page.
How long does it take to build?
From half an hour to around 50 hours, depending on the model. The manufacturer's figure is on every product page and is a guideline — your first model usually takes longer. More in How long does a kit really take?
What age are they for?
The manufacturer rates the models to paint as suitable from about age 4, some small models from about 8, and most from about 14. That is a guideline. Together with an adult, younger builders can start earlier — more in Building together.
Can I take a model apart again?
Technically, yes. But the wooden joints fit tightly and are designed to be assembled once, so a model is usually built once and then stays that way.
I have lost the assembly instructions.
The instructions are available as PDFs — see Assembly instructions.
Ordering and shipping
Where do you ship from, and how fast?
We ship from our warehouse in Essen. Within Germany your order arrives in 1–3 working days, within the EU in 3–7 working days, and worldwide in 7–14 working days.
How much is shipping?
Within Germany €3.99, free from an order value of €35. To the EU a flat rate of €11.99, worldwide a flat rate of €19.99. All details under Shipping and payment.
How can I pay?
By credit card, PayPal, Klarna, bank transfer in advance or DHL cash on delivery (plus €6.00).
Are there gift cards?
Yes. With the gift card, the recipient chooses their model from the whole shop themselves.
Returns
Can I return a model?
Yes, within 100 days of receipt. We cover the cost of returns within Germany. Independently of this, the statutory 14-day right of withdrawal applies. The details are under Withdrawal and returns.
Spare parts
A part is broken or missing. What now?
Spare parts are free. They come directly from the manufacturer, shipped from within the EU, with no customs fees. You request them via the manufacturer's spare parts form. Have the model name and part number ready — the number is on the board and in the instructions.
About us
Who is behind ugears.de?
UGEARS is the brand and manufacturer of the models. ugears.de is operated by Ligna Arts OHG, the official importer for Germany. More under About UGEARS.