SLA, Vacuum Casting and Model Making provide a fast, accurate and cost-effective prototyping process, enhancing every stage of product development. Continue reading
What is model making?
Professional model making is the fusion of skills, techniques and technologies to produce high-quality 3D representations of objects. These might be for presentations, design verification, functional production testing or architectural presentations.
What is the model making process?
The model making process varies from project to project. We might work from sketches, industrial design schemes, 2D drawings, 3D CAD files, hand-made models or any combination of these.
When we receive an enquiry, we discuss the project with the customer and agree the optimum processes.
When is model making used?
Model making is ideal when automated prototyping technologies or processes are not enough – perhaps due to size or complexity – or where the model needs to incorporate parts produced by different means.
Our professional model making services cover four key areas:
Design verification models:
We make early-stage models to verify how the product will look and feel – we call it a ‘reality check’. These models are not for testing strength, flow or durability characteristics.
Presentation models:
Presentation models look, feel and behave like the finished product. They can be for presentation to clients or backers, or for use at trade shows, for sales promotion, or marketing evaluation and market research.
Architectural models:
We create scaled architectural models of buildings and larger construction developments for visualisation and presentation purposes. In addition, we can model cars, aeroplanes, ships, and other construction or structural engineering projects.
Advanced prototype models:
Models can be invaluable for functional testing and pre-manufacture production verification. They are ideal for evaluating a product’s physical and behavioural characteristics.
Model making capabilities
Our multi-skilled model makers are trained in the latest techniques and technologies, plus they benefit from years of experience and practice in projects ranging from automotive, seats and interior mouldings, to complex functional models of medical devices.
At Prototype Projects we have a broad range of technologies, processes and materials for prototyping and model making, as well as a fully equipped finishing workshop. Models often incorporate parts that we have produced using our 3D printing, CNC machining and vacuum casting facilities.
If there any technologies are required that we do not have in-house, we can outsource these and manage the entire model making project on behalf of the customer. We therefore provide a complete one-stop model making service.
When customers come to us needing a model but do not know how it can be produced, we call on our experience to act as consultants and advisors, helping customers achieve their goals within the timescales and budgets available.
On those occasions when we are asked to work from sketches or manmade models, we can utilise our CAD suite to create 3D models for use in 3D printing, CNC machining and vacuum casting.
Characteristics of models
Our model making team produces exceptionally high-quality models that are virtually indistinguishable from production units. Some models are static but others are functional. We liaise closely with customers to ensure we understand the context and deliver models that are fit for purpose.
Production speeds for model making
No two model making projects are the same, so we will discuss your requirements and propose a project plan that fulfils your needs in terms of the technical aspects, budget and timescale.
Finishing options for models
Aesthetics are often vital for model. As well as a fully equipped finishing and paint spraying facility, we can also arrange to have parts finished to look like they are made of metals – for example, by electroplating, electroless plating or vacuum metallisation. We can therefore simulate any metal, injection moulded plastic, or even glass.
A key part of the model making process is assembly. Depending on the model’s purpose, this might involve bonding or fastening parts together, or assembling them so mechanisms function as required.
Ready to get started?
If you’re ready to go visual with Model Making, request a quote using the form below.
To discuss your project with our team, or to book a tour of our facilities, please contact us on 01763 249760.
Request a Quote
Please Note: requests for our 3-Day production speed must meet our 3-Day criteria. All final data for our 3-Day production speed is required by 4.30pm.
To request a quote for any of our other technologies/services, such as Vacuum Casting, Model Making and Laser Cutting, please complete this contact form.
Model Making FAQ
What types of models can Prototype Projects make?
We produce a wide range of models including concept models, display models, architectural models, engineering models, and highly detailed presentation models. Whether you need a one-off showcase piece or a functional model to demonstrate design features, our team can bring your ideas to life.
What materials are used for model making?
Our model makers use a variety of materials depending on your requirements, including resins, plastics, foams, wood, metals and 3D printed parts. By combining traditional craftsmanship with advanced prototyping techniques, we can achieve the right balance of strength, detail, and finish.
Can you make fully detailed, painted models?
Yes. Our in-house finishing team can hand-paint, spray-finish or detail your models to match branding, colours and textures. We can also apply surface textures, decals, and logos to ensure the final model is presentation-ready. In our early days as model makers, many of the models we produced were photographed for use in catalogues, so creating visually flawless, highly detailed models has always been part of our expertise.
Do you combine model making with 3D Printing and CNC Machining?
Absolutely. Many of our models incorporate 3D printed or CNC machined components to achieve fine detail or functional accuracy. This hybrid approach gives you the best of both worlds: handcrafted quality combined with the precision of digital manufacturing.
What industries do you make models for?
We work across a wide range of industries, including medical, automotive, aerospace, consumer products, architecture, and marketing. Models are often used for product launches, exhibitions, investor presentations, and internal design reviews.
How accurate are your models to the original design?
Our models are highly accurate to the CAD data or sketches provided. Depending on your needs, we can create realistic replicas or simplified versions to highlight key features.
How long does model making take?
Every model is unique, and timescales vary depending on complexity, size and finishing requirements. We’ll discuss your project and confirm a timescale when we provide your quote.
Can models be made interactive or functional?
Yes. Where required, we can build models with working features, moving parts, or lighting. This is particularly useful for demonstrations and trade shows.
Do you provide confidential model making services?
Yes. We frequently produce models for clients developing new products and understand the importance of confidentiality. We’re happy to sign NDAs to give you complete peace of mind.
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Model Making & Workshop team
Our model making and AP/AM workshop team deliver high-quality 3D printed and vacuum cast prototype parts. We offer next day dispatch on SLS, SLA and DLP. Request a quote for your next prototype project.
Tim Rowell
Quality & Operations Manager
Gemma Zouher-Lewis
RP Team Leader
Jordan Cooney
RP Technician
Chris Johnson
RP Technician
Leon Willis
Workshop Assistant/Delivery Driver
Adam Sharkey
Technical Project Manager
Alex Barnett
Senior RP Technician
Luke Webb
Senior 3D CAD Technician
Oliver Pringle
3D CAD Technician