Our Approach
Here at TaylorMade model makers, we respect all ways of making. From traditional handcrafted techniques to the latest 3d printing and laser cutting technologies. It all comes down to your project and the purpose of your model. Below are some of the processes and techniques we use to produce your models.
Traditional Techniques
Traditional hand making skills are essential for producing quality models. Our workshop is also equipped with industry standard woodshop machinery, hand tools and power tools. We take pride in our attention to detail, which drives us to create amazing models for you.
We work with a variety of materials - Acrylic, MDF, foam, veneer and timber such as maple, cherry, oak, pear, beech, walnut and plywood.
Laser Cutting
We use the latest Industry standard laser cutting machines to help build your models. This allows for greater accuracy and quicker construction. Various techniques are used such as engraving and rastering to achieve components at model scale.
Our 800mm x 450mm laser bed allows us to cut & engrave large pieces as well as small components. We offer a laser cutting service for a range of projects. More information can be found here.
3D Printing
3d printing is a valuable tool and allows us to expand our approach to model making. Whether a fully printed building or detailed model components, 3d printing can supplement our making process.
Our Flashforge FDM 3d printer has a bed size of 230 x 150 x 155mm which means we can print model components at scale in a range of PLA plastic colours. We offer a 3d printing service for a range of projects. More information can be found here.
Metal Etching
Metal etched components allow for fine detail on our architectural models. Metals such as brass, stainless steel, copper and nickel silver can be etched to make railings, balconies and facades.
Thicknesses range from 0.1mm to 6mm depending on the metal. Our models of The Attic kiosk and Canary Wharf tower use stainless steel metal etchings.
Spray finishing
Our workshop is equipped with a professional spray booth for cellulose and 2k spraying.
We can spray matt or gloss colours to a specific RAL or Pantone reference code. We can also colour match materiality such as stone or brickwork with various spraying techniques such as speckle, mottle, masking and blending.
Electronics
A simple lighting plate underneath a model can be a great way to illuminate a scheme. Alternatively, adding LEDs to the central core of a building will look great.
Apartmentfinder systems can also be incorporated into marketing models and be controlled via a touchscreen. Some projects we have lit using lighting plates and LEDs include models for EDF Energy and Invenia Labs Ltd.
Digital
We use a variety of digital software such as AutoCad which allows us to deconstruct, edit and draw elevations, plans and sectional drawings accurately. Programs such as AutoCad are useful for processes such as metal etching and our laser cutting and drawing services.
SketchUp helps us visualise a scheme in 3 dimensional form and also allows us to produce models and components for our 3d printing services.
We also use other programs such as 3d Studio Max, Rhinoceros, Photoshop and Illustrator.
Mold & Casting
Our workshop is equipped with a casting room & specialist equipment for molding & casting.
We can produce various molds: silicone, alginate, fibreglass jacket, 1 & multi-part molds and rotational molds; for casting in a range of materials: Jesmonite, resin, plaster & concrete finishes. For more information on basic mold & casting click here.