AI tools can now turn a text prompt or a photo into a 3D model in minutes, and we love it. More and more clients are arriving with an AI-generated model of a sculpture, a car part, a product idea or a sign, and it's one of the best ways to start a project. You've already done the hard part: getting the idea out of your head and into 3D.
We can help turn that model into a real, physical part. Here's how to send it through and what to expect.
Your AI model is a great starting point
An AI model shows us exactly what you're picturing: the shape, the style and the feel. That saves a lot of back-and-forth and gets your project moving fast.
Most AI tools export a mesh, a surface made of thousands of small triangles. Meshes are what we work with every day from our 3D scanning and reverse engineering work, so we're right at home with them. We just need to set the model up for the way it will be made, whether that's scaling it to size, tidying the surface or sharpening the details.
How to submit your model
Send us the file along with a few details:
- The 3D file. Mesh formats such as STL, OBJ, GLB or FBX are all fine.
- Size. How big would you like the finished part?
- Material and finish. Timber, foam, 3D print, fibreglass or carbon fibre? Raw, painted or high gloss?
- Quantity. A one-off, or a production run?
- What it's for. Display piece, working part, mould or prototype?
- Reference images of what you're after, if you have them.
Not sure on some of these? No problem. Send what you have and we'll work it out together.
What we do: a design for manufacture review
Your first step with us is a design for manufacture (DFM) review. We:
- inspect the geometry and check its scale, detail and wall thickness
- work out the best way to make it: 3D printing, CNC carving or foam milling, moulds and fibreglass, or a combination
- suggest any tweaks that will make it stronger, better looking or more cost-effective to produce
- give you clear advice on how best to proceed, and what the next steps would cost
You'll come away with a clear plan and a confident route from AI model to finished part.
Cost
The DFM review is charged at our hourly design rate, so you only pay for the time your model needs. It's a small, low-risk first step before committing to manufacturing.
From model to finished part
Once the plan is set, we can refine the model, then machine, print or fabricate it in-house. 3D scanning, CAD design, CNC machining and composites all happen under one roof at our Pomona workshop, so your idea goes from screen to real life without changing hands.
Ready to bring your AI model to life? Send it through and we'll take a look.