Every piece that leaves our studio starts the same way: with a conversation. Whether you’re reaching out for a lithophane of a family photo, a custom rose that won’t wilt, or a one-of-a-kind gift idea you’ve only sketched out in your head, the process begins with us listening to what you actually want — not just what fits neatly into a catalog.
Step 1: The Idea
Most custom orders start with a message through our Contact page or a note at checkout. Tell us what you’re picturing — a photo you want turned into a lithophane, a name or date for an engraving, or a completely custom design. The more detail you give us, the closer the first draft lands to what you had in mind.
Step 2: The Design
From there, we move into modeling and slicing. Every file is built or adjusted by hand for the specific piece you’re ordering — nothing here is a one-click mass template. For photo-based pieces like lithophanes, we adjust contrast and depth so the image reads clearly once light passes through the print. For engraved or custom-shaped pieces, we test proportions digitally before anything touches the printer.
Step 3: The Print
This is where patience matters most. Depending on size and complexity, a piece can take anywhere from a couple of hours to the better part of a day on the printer. We check in on prints as they go — custom work doesn’t get walked away from and left to chance.
Step 4: Finishing
Once a print comes off the bed, it’s not done. Supports get removed by hand, edges get cleaned up, and anything that needs it gets sanded or finished so it feels as good as it looks. This is also where laser engraving work gets added for pieces that call for it.
Step 5: Packing and Shipping
Made-to-order items typically ship within 3-5 business days of completion. We pack everything to survive the trip, not just look good sitting on a shelf.
Why It’s Worth Knowing
We’re a small, veteran-owned shop — every order really is made by one of us, by hand, one print at a time. Knowing what goes into that process is part of what you’re paying for when you choose a custom piece over something off a shelf. If you’ve got an idea you haven’t been able to find anywhere else, that’s exactly the kind of order we like best. Reach out through our Contact page and let’s figure out what we can build for you.