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FAQ

May I have a quote?

Please email us at hello@swordfishworks.com with your file, material, thickness and quantity for a cost. Quotes are valid for 30 days.

Can you provide a quote over the phone?

Each job is different, so it is challenging to provide an instant quote over the phone. The software calculates how long it will take to cut your file, so we really need this information to provide a quote.

How long will it take to receive a quote?

We try to provide a cost in 24 hours from receipt of your files.

What file type do you need?

We can work from a CAD or Illustrator file. We can quote from a PDF if it contains vectors but advise against using it as a cut file due to compatibility issues. Preferred file types are DWG and AI.

I don’t have access to a CAD program. Can you help?

We can create a vector file of your image, sketch or paper pattern. Prices start at £25 + VAT. We always send you a draft to approve and the final digital file is yours to keep.

Can I have a sample?

While we do not offer sampling free of charge, our pricing starts at just £40 + VAT for laser cutting and £100 + VAT for CNC machining. If you are planning a large production order, we would be happy to credit part of the sampling cost against the bulk order. If you would like to test a new material, we are happy to cut a small circle free of charge.

What is your current turnaround time?

It really depends on our workflow at the time of your order as well as the size of your job. We advise three working days for laser cutting and five working days for CNC machining. Our lead time will be detailed in your quote.

Do you offer a rush service?

While we don’t offer a rush service for an additional charge, we will try to accommodate your order. Please let us know if you request is urgent, and we will have a look at our schedule.

What are your payment terms?

We require payment prior to, or on collection. For production orders, our terms are 60% on order with balance due on completion. Payment can be made over the phone or in person by card and via bank transfer. Our payment terms will be detailed in your quote.

What about delivery?

If you are local to our studio, you are welcome to collect. We can arrange same-day courier in the London area and over-night for further afield. Please supply an address for a quote.

What is the largest area you can cut?

Our largest laser bed has a cutting area of 1985 x 1185mm and our CNC machine caters for sheets up to 2440 x 1520mm.

What materials do you hold in stock?

We stock clear, black, white and a varying selection of coloured Perspex acrylic at the studio. We also hold stock of HIPS, PETG, Polypropylene, silver acrylic mirror, corrugated card, mountboard, laser ply, birch ply, WBP, MDF, Foamex and paper-backed veneer. Most materials can usually be ordered for next day delivery, while non-standard items such as Valchromat or coloured acrylic mirror may take a little longer.

Can I supply my own material?

Yes of course; provided it is suitable for our machines. However, we cannot be held responsible nor will we replace the material should the cutting fail.

What materials don’t you cut?

We can’t cut glass or metal on our machines. We can laser engrave the surface of glass resulting in a frosted texture. We can also apply a masking fluid to metal that, once laser engraved, results in a black weather-resistant finish. We also don’t laser cut any material containing PVC as this is a known carcinogen and is very corrosive to our machines.

What else do you do?

If your project requires some finishing touches we can help. Vinyl cutting, stencils, paint filling, spray painting, line bending, signage fixings and keyring accessories to name a few.

Can I visit your studio?

Yes, you are more than welcome to arrange an appointment to visit us and discuss you project.

Where are you?

We are in Perseverance Works in Shoreditch. Our postcode will bring you to a locked gate so best to use the Perseverance Works address of 25 Hackney Road, E2 7NX (link to Google Maps). We are situated in the grey metal-clad building called The Hangar.

Swordfish Works Ltd
Studio 8 The Hanger
Perseverance works
38 Kingsland Road
London E2 8DD
(Access 25 Hackney Rd E2 7NX)

Tel / 020 3763 3100
Email / hello@swordfishworks.com