In the UniFormation Maker Stories Challenge, we received an inspiring story from Sei Kin Chan, a creator whose 3D printing journey began as a fun family project and evolved into a lasting creative pursuit.
His story reminds us that the true beauty of making isn’t just in the finished model—it’s in the shared laughter, the lessons learned, and the connections built along the way.
For Sei Kin, 3D printing became more than a hobby—it became a bridge between family, creativity, and community.
Let’s take a closer look at his inspiring journey!
Sei Kin Chan Story:
I first got into 3D printing when my kids showed me the Ground Effected YouTube channel. It quickly became our shared project—printing and painting anime and game figures on weekends. One of my favourite projects was when we worked together on an Elden Ring chess set for my daughter. We spent hours sanding, painting, and laughing at our clumsy brushwork, and seeing her pride when we finished that project is something I’ll never forget. Even now, as my kids have moved onto other interests, I still find myself printing and painting models almost every week.
Personally, 3D printing has helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect. When I first started, I struggled to get smooth finishes on my models. Determined to improve, I watched painting tutorials and practiced new techniques like dry brushing and layering. With each project, I could see my skills getting better, which was really rewarding and gave me a sense of accomplishment outside of my regular routine.
What made me choose UniFormation?
I chose the Uniformation GK3 Ultra because its large build plate allows me to print bigger models and more complex pieces that I enjoy painting. The built-in heater helps maintain consistent print quality, which is really useful during colder months here and means I spend less time troubleshooting failed prints. I also relied on many online testimonies from other creators, who highlighted its reliability and responsive customer support—these aspects gave me extra confidence in my purchase and have helped me feel supported as I continue to develop my skills.
Instagram has become a big part of my hobby. Sharing photos of my finished models and following other hobbyists has opened up a whole world of inspiration. I’ve picked up clever painting tips from fellow hobbyists and advice with people from all over. The online community is incredibly supportive—when a print failed or I was stuck, someone was always quick to offer suggestions or encouragement. Over time, I’ve made a few mates who check in to see how my latest projects are going, and their feedback keeps me motivated to try new things.
Engaging in 3D printing and painting has positively impacted my life. Prior to this, my hobbies were limited to activities such as watching movies, listening to music, and playing computer games.
Looking back, I’m grateful that 3D printing brought my family closer and led me to a friendly community of creative people. It’s become more than just a hobby - it’s a way to keep learning, stay connected, and enjoy the process, one print at a time.