From time to time, we receive inquires regarding the commissioning of a custom piece. We encourage clients to contact us with their custom needs. Sometimes it might involve custom casting of materials that require the milling of moulds, laser engraving or cutting of materials or designs, or some other process that might require us to work with our outside partners. We are equipped with many of the tools necessary to complete most any request. We are also equipped with CAD software and can generate drawings if needed. Ideas can be as simple as making an item based on one currently available, but in another color or material. Other times, it is an original idea that needs developmental work prior to executing creation of the item.

One area we get requests for, is for the use of materials which have irreplaceable sentimental value. Sometimes referred to as a "Heritage" item, be it a Writing Instrument, Bottle Stopper, et cetera, the client wants to preserve a piece of personal history to remember a person, place or time. These creations are usually made of materials from the family homestead, the remains from a badly damaged family heirloom, fallen heritage trees from a college campus, and the like. Many times, the new heirlooms are made in quantities and distributed to extended family members or associates as gifts of remembrance. We take great pride in fulfilling these sentimental dreams for our clients.

As a policy, we do not charge design fees for simple requests, that do not require measurable developmental time and materials, or for the creation of items that are merely a substitution of materials. In the event we need to spend time and materials on developing an item for client approval, we will request a Design and Development fee in advance. Subject to approval, we will submit a quote prior to beginning any work. Depending on the assignment, we may request a deposit up front with the balance due prior to shipping. Throughout the process, we will document progress and submit photographs for client input and approvals.

Why do we charge Design and Development Fees? Because I am a small, custom shop. When I spend significant time in Design and Development for a potential client, I am not working on other projects that produce revenue. These fees help offset the loss of revenue when the client decides not to pursue the project. It also establishes how serious the potential client is, in seeing the project through to completion. Once we establish a working relationship with a client, many times we will wave the Design and Development fees. We take your custom requests seriously.

Best regards,