Supporting you all the way
Project review & proposal
Submit your project info and get honest feedback from our award-winning design team. If we can help and add value, we create a detailed, tailored project proposal for you outlining costs and options
Design & prototype
Embark on an exciting product development journey with us. Taking your ideas from innovative conceptual designs through to engineered 3D CAD models and working elecro-mechanical prototypes!
Manufacture, launch & market
Turn your product idea into commercial reality! We support you with the patent process, setting up your manufacturing partnerships and even creating websites, video content and brand identity.
Hear it from our customers
Idea Reality can offer a range of rapid prototyping services, either through our in-house 3d printing facilities or our trusted network of suppliers.
FDM 3D Printing
Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) is a 3D printing process that builds parts layer by layer by extruding molten plastic through a nozzle. As the material cools, it solidifies into the final shape. FDM is ideal for creating functional parts and prototypes quickly and iteratively. This method supports both rigid plastics and softer, rubber-like materials. While the surface finish is adequate for functional models, FDM is generally not the best choice for producing high-fidelity models. At our Hampshire studio, we have access to several FDM printers to cater to a range of project needs.
SLA 3D Printing
Stereolithography (SLA) uses light, typically from an LCD screen or laser, to cure and solidify liquid resin in precise areas, creating detailed models. Although SLA printers often have smaller build volumes and slower production times than FDM machines, they produce smoother surface finishes and more durable parts, resembling the quality of injection-moulded components. SLA prints may still show faint layer lines but are easier to spray paint, enabling glossy, polished prototypes. We can produce SLA parts in-house at our studio.
SLS 3D Printing
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) uses a laser to heat and fuse powdered plastic in specific locations, creating strong, detailed parts. Unlike FDM and SLA, SLS does not produce visible layer lines. The dense powder acts as a natural support structure, enabling the creation of complex geometries without the need for extra support material. Parts from SLS printers typically have a slightly powdery finish but can be bead-blasted for a smoother result or dyed to achieve vibrant colours. With a large build volume, SLS is particularly cost-efficient when multiple parts are produced together. We provide this service through our extensive network of trusted 3D printing partners.
CNC Machining
Through our trusted network of suppliers, we offer CNC machining services for a variety of materials, including plastics, metals, and wood. Our experience design team will ensure that your parts are optimised effectively to reduce machining operations, time and costs. CNC machining is an excellent option for achieving highly precise geometries that may not be feasible using additive rapid prototyping processes.
Why work with us?
Free idea review
We will review your idea for free and let you know from the start if we are the best product design team to help!
Tailored Process
Every stage of the product design process is tailored to your unique project needs, giving you efficiency and the best value.
Personal Service
Get direct contact and support from our design team and always have full control of the project pace and direction.
Confidentiality Assured
You retain 100% of your idea and any new IP we develop for you. All communication and project details are kept confidential under a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA).
Broad Expertise
We work across a variety of sectors and types of products, giving us a broad experience in multiple manufacturing processes and a vast network of suppliers.
Funding Support
We can support you by creating all the necessary marketing materials to take your idea to customers, investors or even create crowdfunding campaigns.
