Independent engineering studio · Kendal, Cumbria
Practical design, rapid prototyping and small-batch 3D printing for makers, businesses and people with a problem to solve.
/ What I do
Hands-on support from the first sketch through to a finished, usable part.
Turn a sketch, broken component or rough idea into a production-ready 3D model. The design is developed around loads, fit, clearances, material behaviour and how the part will actually be manufactured and used.
Concept development · CAD modelling · Design for manufactureTest fit, form and function before committing to tooling or larger production runs. Physical prototypes expose issues that are difficult to spot on screen and make useful design changes faster and less expensive.
Proof of concept · Fit checks · Functional testingOne-offs and repeatable short runs of practical components. Parts can be optimised for strength, weight, installation and print orientation, with material selected for the working environment.
Low-volume production · Repairs · Workshop solutionsCapture the shape of an existing object and bring it into a digital workflow. Scan data can be cleaned, measured and rebuilt into useful CAD geometry for repair, modification or integration with a new design.
Part capture · Reverse engineering · Scan-to-CADClear technical drawings that turn a 3D model into an unambiguous manufacturing document. Views, dimensions, tolerances and notes are arranged so another engineer or workshop can confidently make and inspect the part.
Manufacturing drawings · Dimensions · TolerancesEvery project includes
Built for the awkward,
the unavailable, and the
not-yet-invented.
/ How it works
Send a sketch, photo, measurements, sample part or existing CAD file. Explain what the part needs to do, where it will be used and what is not working today.
The requirements are reviewed and the sensible route is agreed—whether that is direct manufacture, scanning, a fresh CAD model or an early prototype.
The part is developed around function, fit and material. Key decisions are shared for review, with a prototype used where physical testing adds value.
The approved design is produced, checked and prepared for collection or delivery. Final files and drawings can be supplied where agreed.
/ Material options
Material is selected around the part’s function, environment and finish—not simply what is easiest to print.
Accurate, crisp and available in a wide range of finishes. Best for visual models, indoor prototypes and parts that do not face high heat.
Detail · Speed · FinishA durable all-rounder with useful impact and moisture resistance. Well suited to functional components, workshop aids and protective housings.
Durability · Moisture · FunctionStrong materials for demanding environments. ABS suits functional indoor use; ASA adds improved resistance to UV and outdoor weathering.
Heat · Outdoors · ToughnessA rubber-like option that can flex, grip and absorb impact. Useful for feet, bumpers, sleeves, seals and protective interfaces.
Flex · Grip · ImpactHigh-performance choices for parts that need greater strength, wear resistance or temperature capability. Application and geometry are reviewed before selection.
Strength · Wear · TemperatureCarbon- or glass-fibre-filled materials reduce flex and improve dimensional stability, making them useful for rigid fixtures and loaded engineering parts.
Rigidity · Stability · Low flex+ Specialist and support materials are also available where the application requires them. Final material choice is confirmed during design review.
/ Local expertise
Vertex 3D Manufacture is an independent engineering, scanning and additive manufacturing service based in Kendal, Cumbria. It is built for customers who need thoughtful technical help without the overhead of a large consultancy.
You deal directly with the person designing and making your part. That keeps communication clear, shortens feedback loops and means manufacturing decisions are considered from the beginning—not added after the design is finished.
PROJECT FIT
Have something in mind?
Send over your idea, drawing, photo or problem. Include approximate size, quantity, intended use and any deadline you are working towards. I’ll come back to you with the most practical next step.
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