Ugears Birthday – Celebrating 11 years together
On 15 July 2025, we celebrated our birthday—and what a milestone it was! Eleven incredible years of creativity, engineering, and community. We couldn’t let the day pass without saying a massive thank you to you, our most dedicated fans. Your unwavering support has shaped our journey from a passionate startup to a global brand.
Humble beginnings
It all started in 2014 in Kyiv with a spark of inspiration. Our first wooden models—the Etui, Theater, and Tractor—redefined what a self-propelled, glue-free wooden kit could be. Made from sustainably sourced plywood and featuring our patented joint system, these designs captured hearts quickly.
Kickstarter triumphs
In 2015, we launched our very first Kickstarter campaign, smashing our goals by over 20×—nearly $406,000 raised! It was a clear sign: you believed in us just as much as we believed in our creations. Since then, we've successfully run five Kickstarter campaigns, each one boosted by your enthusiasm and trust.
Global reach & recognition
Since 2016, Ugears has proudly participated in the prestigious Nuremberg Toy Fair, connecting us with fans and retailers from across the globe. Today, our beautifully engineered models are assembled in over 90 countries across five continents—a testament to the universal appeal of hands-on creativity.
Beyond toys: Art & Innovation
In 2018, The Walt Disney Company partnered with Ugears to explore new frontiers in collectible mechanical models. Now, in early 2025, that collaboration reaches an exciting milestone with the launch of the Star Wars™ x Ugears Collection — an officially licensed series by Disney and Lucasfilm™. Designed to meet the highest standards and innovation, this collection brings iconic Star Wars vehicles and droids to life as intricate wooden models.
This collaboration goes beyond toys — celebrating the artistry, engineering, and storytelling of the Star Wars universe.
Special birthday connection
Since our birthday coincides with 31 July, the birthday of Harry Potter, we’ve been reflecting on the magic of imagination and creativity. Much like Harry’s journey, Ugears began with humble origins.
We want to hear from you
Our models are like bridges that connect people across cultures, ages, and continents. They spark creativity, inspire bonding, and ignite stories.
Share your memories with us!
- Did you assemble your first Ugears with a grandparent or friend?
- Have our models helped spark your interest in engineering or design?
- Are there special moments, maybe even a birthday, where Ugears played a starring role?
Thank you for being part of our journey. Here’s to many more years of hands-on wonder and global creativity together.
Sincerely,
The Ugears Team
P.S. Don’t miss the magic—31 July is right around the corner. Let’s celebrate that shared spark of creativity and imagination.