METAL FABRICATION FAQ's

We regularly work with architects, interior designers, contractors, creative studios, artists, furniture makers and commercial clients, as well as private clients with suitable bespoke projects.We can work directly with your design team, contractor or other specialist suppliers where a project involves multiple trades.

We specialise in bespoke, one-off and small-batch metal fabrication, particularly projects where the design, material, finish or fabrication method requires a considered solution.Our work includes architectural and interior metalwork, bespoke furniture, retail and hospitality installations, displays, specialist structures, sculptural work and other design-led fabrication.We don't manufacture a standard product range - most of what leaves our workshop is made specifically for an individual project.

We undertake everything from individual bespoke components and prototypes through to larger fabrication and installation packages.We're particularly well suited to one-off and technically demanding work where a standard fabrication solution isn't appropriate.If you're unsure whether a project is suitable for us, send over the information you have and we'll take a look.

Yes. If you already have suitable fabrication drawings, CAD files or DXFs, we can manufacture directly from them.We can also review supplied drawings from a fabrication perspective and identify details that may need resolving before manufacture.

That's fine.SCMF has in-house design and technical development capability, allowing us to take projects from sketches, renders, architectural drawings or early-stage concepts through to a resolved fabrication solution.Depending on the project, this can include 3D modelling, fabrication drawings, material selection, connection details, fixing methods and design for manufacture.

Where a project requires significant design development, CAD work, technical drawings or engineering of fabrication details, this is normally included as a separate part of our scope and quotation.For straightforward projects supplied with complete fabrication information, this may not be required.

Yes. We're happy to review early-stage projects and provide budget guidance or preliminary pricing where sufficient information is available.Providing approximate dimensions, quantities, materials, finishes, location and intended programme will help us give you a more useful indication.As the design develops, we can then provide a more detailed quotation against an agreed scope.

The more information you can provide, the more accurately we can assess the project.Useful information includes:Drawings, sketches, renders or photographsOverall dimensionsQuantityPreferred material and finishProject locationRequired completion or installation dateAny relevant fixing, structural or access requirementsDon't worry if everything hasn't been resolved yet. Send us what you have and we'll let you know what else we need.

We regularly fabricate in mild steel, stainless steel, aluminium, Corten/weathering steel, brass and copper.Material selection can have a significant impact on appearance, fabrication method, durability, weight and cost, so we're happy to advise where the specification hasn't yet been finalised.

Finishes depend on the material and project requirements but can include:powder coating, wet paint, galvanising, blackening, polishing, brushing, patination, mirror-polished stainless, specialist metal coatings and natural/raw finishes.Where specialist finishing is required, we work with established finishing partners alongside our in-house fabrication.

Yes. We can manage material procurement and coordinate specialist processes as part of the overall fabrication package.This can include laser cutting, waterjet cutting, specialist machining, powder coating, galvanising, polishing and other project-specific finishes.

Where practical, material or finish samples can sometimes be arranged as part of the design-development process.Availability depends on the particular material and finish. For highly specific proprietary finishes, samples may need to be obtained directly from the manufacturer or finishing supplier.

Yes.Although we can provide a complete design-to-installation service, we are equally happy to work as the fabrication element of a wider project.If your drawings and specifications are already complete, we can simply manufacture the metalwork to the supplied information.

Yes. Prototypes, one-offs and unusual fabrication challenges are a core part of our work.Our combination of in-house design and workshop fabrication makes us particularly well suited to projects where details need to be developed and refined during the manufacturing process.

Yes. We provide installation where required and can include this within the project quotation.For projects where installation isn't required, metalwork can be collected from our Brighton workshop or delivery can be arranged.

Yes. Our workshop is based in Brighton & Hove, and we regularly undertake projects in London and across the South East, as well as projects further afield where appropriate.Delivery and installation requirements are assessed individually depending on the size, location and complexity of the project.

Yes, by appointment.For projects where material selection, samples, prototypes or fabrication details are easier to discuss in person, clients and design teams are welcome to visit our Brighton workshop.Please contact us first to arrange a suitable time.

Lead times vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, material availability, specialist finishing and our current workshop schedule.As a general guide, bespoke fabrication projects commonly require around 4–6 weeks, although straightforward work may be completed sooner and larger or more complex packages may require longer.If you have a fixed installation or completion date, please let us know as early as possible.

Sometimes.If we have suitable workshop capacity, we can accommodate shorter programmes, but this depends on material availability, external processes and the complexity of the fabrication.For time-critical projects, contact us with the required date and project information and we'll confirm what's realistically achievable.

Once the scope, price and programme have been agreed, we normally require a deposit before reserving workshop time and ordering materials.Workshop capacity can't generally be held provisionally without a confirmed order and deposit.

Quality starts before fabrication.We review drawings, materials, tolerances, joints, finishes and assembly requirements during technical development, then manufacture and inspect the work in our Brighton workshop.Where appropriate, projects are trial assembled and checked before finishing, delivery or installation, helping identify issues before the metalwork reaches site.

Yes. Many of our projects involve coordination with joiners, glass suppliers, stone fabricators, electricians, contractors, designers and specialist finishers.We're comfortable fabricating metalwork as one element of a larger package and coordinating interfaces, fixing details and installation requirements with the wider project team.

Yes, where the project is a good fit for our workshop.This typically means bespoke or design-led metalwork rather than general domestic repairs or small welding jobs.Examples might include bespoke furniture, gates, balustrades, architectural features, screens, planters and specialist interior metalwork.

Our workshop is primarily set up for bespoke fabrication and project-based work, rather than general repair welding.You're welcome to send us details, but for very small repairs or basic welding jobs a dedicated local repair service may be more appropriate.

We can use existing pieces, photographs or references to understand the required aesthetic or function, but we won't knowingly reproduce another designer's protected work without the appropriate permission.Where required, we can develop a new fabrication solution around your own design brief.

Send us your drawings, renders, sketches, photographs or written brief through our enquiry form or by email.We'll review the project and let you know whether it's a good fit for SCMF, whether any additional information is required, and the appropriate next step for budgeting, design development or quotation.

We take pride in our meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each project undergoes rigorous quality checks at every stage, from design to final fabrication. Our experienced team uses the best materials and techniques to ensure that every piece meets our high standards.

Absolutely! With over 40 years of experience, we have the expertise and resources to manage projects of all sizes, from intricate sculptures to large architectural installations. We collaborate closely with our clients to ensure their vision is brought to life, no matter the scale.

Yes, we do! Our team can handle the installation of your custom metalwork, ensuring it is securely and beautifully integrated into its intended space. We provide a full-service experience from design to installation.

Our approach is all about collaboration and precision. We work closely with you from the initial concept through to the final product, ensuring that every detail aligns with your vision. Our design team uses advanced 3D modeling to create accurate representations before fabrication begins.

We take pride in our meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each project undergoes rigorous quality checks at every stage, from design to final fabrication. Our experienced team uses the best materials and techniques to ensure that every piece meets our high standards.

We believe in a collaborative design process. Our team works closely with you to understand your vision and requirements. We provide detailed 3D models and drawings for your approval, making adjustments as needed to ensure the final product is exactly what you envisioned.