Turn your idea into a physical part you can inspect, assemble and test. SmartCNC Solutions provides prototype design and manufacturing for individuals, hobbyists and businesses, using CNC machining and FDM 3D printing. We are based in Tamworth, Staffordshire, with delivery across the UK.
Start with a CAD model, a dimensioned sketch or a description of your idea. We can help develop the part design and review a suitable way to make your prototype. Single prototypes are welcome.
What do you need your prototype to prove?
A useful prototype answers a specific question. Before choosing a process, tell us what you want to check:
- Shape and size: whether the overall form and dimensions suit your project.
- Fit and assembly: how the part locates, mounts or connects to other components.
- Function: whether the design works as intended in the conditions you describe.
- Design changes: which features need adjusting before making further parts.
Projects we can review include custom brackets, adapters, mounting plates, enclosures, housings and components for bespoke products or equipment modifications.
CNC machined or 3D printed prototypes
CNC machined prototypes
Machining can be suitable when you need a prototype in metal or a machinable engineering plastic, with features such as accurately located holes, threads and mating surfaces. We review the geometry, material and required tolerances before confirming suitability.
Learn about our one-off CNC machining service.
FDM 3D printed prototypes
A printed plastic model can be useful for checking shape, clearance, assembly and selected functional features. Suitability depends on the material, geometry, print orientation and intended use. A printed fit-check model should not be assumed to behave like the final metal or moulded component.
For some projects, it makes sense to check the shape with a printed model before committing to a machined version. We can discuss this when reviewing your requirements.
From idea to a prototype
- Define the purpose. Send your requirements and explain what the prototype needs to demonstrate.
- Review or develop the design. We identify missing dimensions and agree any CAD work needed.
- Agree the build. Material, manufacturing method, price and lead time are confirmed for the project.
- Make and deliver. We manufacture the agreed prototype and arrange UK delivery.
- Review your findings. After you assess the prototype, further design changes and additional versions can be scoped and quoted.
If you need help preparing the model, explore our CAD design service for sketches and ideas.
What to send for a quotation
- Your CAD model, drawings, sketches or photographs, if available.
- A description of the intended use and what you need to test.
- Approximate dimensions, quantity and important mating features.
- Material preferences and relevant loads, temperatures or environmental conditions.
- Any critical tolerances, delivery postcode and target date.
You can make an initial enquiry without a drawing. Tell us what you know, and we will explain the information needed to assess the project.
Common questions
Can you make just one prototype?
Yes. One-off prototypes are welcome, including projects from private customers and hobbyists.
Can you help if I only have an idea?
Yes. Describe the part and what it needs to do. We can review whether the project is suitable and agree the scope of any design work before manufacture.
How much does a prototype cost?
Price depends on design work, material, size, complexity, process and quantity. The number of revisions also affects the total project cost. We quote for an agreed scope so you know what the proposed work includes.
How long will it take?
We usually respond to enquiries within one business day. Design and manufacturing lead times are confirmed separately after reviewing your requirements.
Can I order a small batch afterwards?
Yes, where the design and manufacturing requirements suit our capabilities. Once you have reviewed the prototype and agreed any changes, we can quote for a small production run.
Tell us about the prototype you need
Send your idea, sketch or CAD file and explain what you want to check. We will review the project and discuss the next steps.