Fresh graduate turns hobby into 3D printing business

KUCHING: Life after graduation can be a whirlwind of decisions—job hunting, societal expectations and financial pressures can often loom large.

However, for 23-year-old Melvin Wee, the uncertainty became an opportunity to carve out his own path through an unconventional hobby: creating and selling 3D-printed figurines.

Armed with a university degree but no job yet, he found inspiration scrolling through social media.

“I don’t have a job yet but I have a 3D printer.

“It was all quite magical as one night, I was watching videos and saw how big the market for 3D-printed items is in countries like China. But here in Kuching, I hadn’t seen anyone doing it. So, I thought, why not give it a try?” he told Sarawak Tribune.

Instead of settling for a part-time job, Wee decided to explore the potential of this niche market.

“I didn’t want to work part-time but I wanted to try to see if this could make money and if it could, I would continue to see how it would develop in the future.”

Making his debut at the CityONE Megamall 2025 New Year Food Festival and Chinese New Year Market Bazaar, Wee revealed that the response exceeded his expectations.

“The sales have been better than I anticipated. I wasn’t sure what to expect since I’ve never seen anyone selling 3D-printed figurines in Kuching before.”

While the figurines might look small and simple, the process of creating them is anything but.

Using a 3D printer, Wee meticulously constructs each piece layer by layer, based on digital designs created with specialised software.

“It’s a long and tedious process, especially for intricate designs. Smaller figurines with lots of detail are much harder to print than larger, simpler ones.”

The step-by-step process involves designing a model, setting up the printer and carefully constructing the object.

Post-production tasks like removing support structures and refining surfaces ensure the figurines meet quality standards.

“Some parts of the object, especially those that extend outward or ‘float’ in the air, need additional support structures to hold them in place during printing and these supports are added during the design process to ensure the object can be printed correctly and maintain its shape.”

Despite having no background in 3D printing, Wee said that he acquired the skills by self-taught through watching videos.

“I taught myself everything through videos after getting the printer. It was all trial and error.”

Depending on his first-ever booth sales, Wee’s long-term plan is modest but focused—to open a booth at a shopping mall to increase traction.

“If this event is successful, I might try setting up a booth at a mall.

“I believe in starting small and watching it grow gradually rather than risking too much too soon.”

Although he doesn’t have a specific career dream yet, Wee remains open to possibilities.

“Right now, 3D printing is my hobby. If it becomes a career, great. If not, I’ll explore other avenues.”

Meanwhile, Wee invites Kuchingnites to visit his booth at the CityONE Megamall outdoor parking area from Jan 8 to 15.

“Usually, we see 3D-printed figurines on social media or overseas. Now, it’s a reality here in Kuching.

“Even if anyone wants custom designs, they can drop by or contact me on WhatsApp at 019-8122356.”

By taking a leap of faith with his 3D printing venture, Wee is proving that fresh graduates can turn hobbies into hopeful opportunities—even in unexpected ways.