Low-Volume Manufacturing
Make More – Without Going Full Factory!
Short-run production that fits your scale, timeline and budget.
Whether you’re a maker needing 20 parts, a creator preparing a Kickstarter, or a small business wanting to test a product before mass production, we help you manufacture smart, not big.
- Get the parts you need
- Skip the tooling costs
- Fast, local, and flexible.
Design & Prototyping
From idea to 3D print – we help you to figure it out.
Not everyone has a 3D file ready to go, and that’s okay, because that’s where we come in. Whether you’ve got a sketch, a broken part, or just a problem to solve, we can design a printable model that works, and iterate it until it’s perfect.
Ideal For:
- Turning a concept into a printable part
- Improving or adapting existing models
- Developing ideas for testing and/or sale
- Creating replacement parts for real-world use
What’s Included?
- 1:1 consultation
- CAD design from scratch or modification of existing files
- Functional or visual prototypes
- Multiple version for fit/testing if needed
Batch 3D Printing
Reliable small-scale production using FDM and resin printers.
We produce consistent, accurate batches of parts and/or products, without the delays and costs that come with traditional manufacturing.
Perfect For:
- Prototyping multiple iterations
- Low-volume product fulfilment
- Spare or replacement parts
- Custom tabletop sets or miniatures
- Promotional items and samples
What You Get:
- Print batches from 1 to 200+
- Consistent print quality across the batch
- Choice of FDM or resin
- Expert advice on best fit
Silicone Moulding
Turn a 3D printed moulding into a flexible mould, then cast your parts.
If you need repeatable, flexible, or castable items, we can produce high-quality silicone moulds from your master part or even from an original concept that you want to create. This lets you create multiple copies using casting resin, chocolate or similar materials.
Ideal For:
Short-run 3D printing, such as..
- Candles, chocolate, soap, stained glass, jewellery makers
- Repeatable small-scale products
- Soft or rubberised parts
- Objects with fine surface detail
- Project needing durability or finish beyond 3D print.
How It Works:
Replace injection moulding for low quantities.
- We 3D print your “master” part of use an existing one
- We create a silicone mould around it (single or two-part)
- We cast replicas using your chosen material
- You get multiple consistent, durable parts – fast.
Customisation Options:
Small batch production.
- You can supply the master, or we can design and/or print it
- Materials: Resin, flexible urethane, or silicone (based on need)
- Great for repeating details or quick duplication.
Common Questions
We define low-volume as 5-200 parts, either printed or cast. There’s no minimum order, and we’ll always advise the best approach based on cost, speed and function.
This depends on a variety of factors, including quantity, complexity, material used, setup and post-processing needs.
Our workload can also have a big impact on this, particularly during busier times of the year (for example, Christmas!)
Not necessarily. We offer CAD design if you need help developing a model, and we can also work from sketches and photos.
Yes absolutely. We often work with small businesses and independent creators to help launch or fulfil their first run of products or test the market before mass production. We have previously worked with soap makers, chocolate and soap makers, for example.
How We Print
(The Tools Behind Your Ideas)
At Tidewater 3D, we use a mixture of FDM and Resin 3D Printers to bring your ideas to life, whether you need durable mechanical parts or finely detailed miniatures.
FDM Printing
(Fused Deposition Modelling)
Great For: Larger prints, functional prototypes, enclosures, and replacement components.
- Prints in strong, affordable plastics like PLA, PETG, and ABS
- Ideal for cost-effective, fast turnaround jobs.
- Available in a wide range of colours and finishes.
Resin Printing
(SLA)
Great For: High-detail miniatures, organic shapes, and smooth-surfaced prototypes
- Ultra-fine detail and smooth finish
- Ideal for tabletop gaming, cosplay props, or intricate design elements
- Cured for a hard finish
Material We Use
We offer a curated range of FDM filaments and resin, because the right material makes all the difference.
- PLA: Affordable, rigid, great for general prints
- PETG: Flexible, stronger, suitable for mechanical parts
- ABS: Heat-resistant, best for rugged use
- Resin: Crisp detail for miniatures, durable for functional prototypes
Not sure which one your project will need? That’s fine, we’re here to guide and advise you on the best material choice.
How Much Does 3D Printing Cost?
We believe in fair, transparent pricing – no hidden costs or confusing jargon. Every project is different, but here’s what affects the price:
What Affects The Cost
- Size and complexity of your design
- Material Type: PLA, resin, flexible filament, etc.
- Print Time: Longer prints = more time on the machine
- Finishing: Sanding, painting, or post-processing available
- Quantity
Postage & Delivery
- Standard UK delivery: £3.50 – £5.00 depending on size, and larger projects will cost considerably more
- Free local collection from Grimsby
- Local delivery available within NE Lincs – just ask
Need it Fast?
- Due to the nature of 3D printing, we cannot always guarantee fast turnaround; however, if you do have a deadline, we’ll do our best to help.
Want Ongoing Support?
- If you need repeat prints, regular prototypes, or a design partner for a product idea, ask about our retainer packages.
Case Studies
Democratising Manufacturing
At Tidewater 3D Printing, we are driven by the belief that simple manufacturing should be accessible to everyone, not just…
Who We Work With
- Tabletop Gamers
- Inventors & Makers
- Small Businesses
- Cosplayers & Prop Makers
- Schools & Educators
- Engineers
Why Choose Tidewater?
- High-Quality Products, Always
- FDM and Resin Options Available
- Fast Turnaround
- Local and Approachable – Based in Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire
- No Minimums – One-Off Prints Welcome