The Challenge Dovetailors has been working closely with one of our long-standing commercial partners, an exciting events business operating at a national level, to scale up production for a large new build. The project represented a significant shift in scale. While maintaining our usual production output and detail-led approach, the workshop was required to […]
The Challenge
Dovetailors has been working closely with one of our long-standing commercial partners, an exciting events business operating at a national level, to scale up production for a large new build.
The project represented a significant shift in scale. While maintaining our usual production output and detail-led approach, the workshop was required to operate at a higher level of coordination, precision, and volume. The challenge was clear: increase capacity and efficiency without compromising the quality and craft our partner relies on.
Our Approach
The success of this scaling up hinged on strong preparation, advanced tooling, and the adaptability of our team.
We introduced new CAD workflows using Rhino 3D and RhinoCAM, allowing the design and production teams to visualise the full assembly before the first physical build began. This virtual-first approach enabled clearer planning, faster problem-solving, and smoother transitions from design to manufacture.
At the same time, we reviewed and optimised our CNC processes to ensure the most effective use of machinery as volumes increased. This included moving the job fully onto the Bacci CNC after initial testing on the Morbidelli — a shift that delivered immediate gains in speed and precision.
Design at Scale
Bronte, a key member of our furniture-making team, led much of the design-side development and coordination. She explains how the new CAD tools transformed the process:
“This new build has been a real step up in scale, especially while keeping our usual production running. What made the difference for me was the preparation in Rhino 3D and RhinoCAM. Seeing the full assembly virtually meant that when we got to the first physical build I already understood where every part belonged. That made the whole job clearer and faster. Each week we get quicker and more confident, which helps us keep pace with what our partner needs.”
This level of digital preparation allowed the workshop to move into production with clarity and confidence, reducing uncertainty and accelerating learning curves as output increased.
Engineering Precision and Adaptability
On the technical side, McKenzie played a central role in refining the production process and machine strategy:
“A lot of this comes down to how adaptable the team is. We moved the entire job onto the Bacci after testing it on the Morbidelli, and that change freed a huge amount of time. It increased precision and cut out a lot of small errors. We have people here who really understand these advanced machines, so we can use them in a way that gets the most out of the technology.”
By aligning the right machine with the right task and trusting the expertise of the team, we were able to increase output while improving consistency and reducing rework.
The Result
The project has demonstrated Dovetailors’ ability to support partners as they scale, delivering:
- Increased production capacity without loss of detail
- Improved precision and efficiency through advanced CNC workflows
- Faster, more confident builds enabled by strong digital preparation
- A calm, solutions-led response to growing demands
Most importantly, it reinforced what we do best: combining strong design foundations, advanced engineering capability, and skilled craftspeople who problem-solve collaboratively as projects grow in complexity.
Looking Ahead
Work like this highlights the value of long-term partnerships built on trust, shared ambition, and technical excellence. By blending craft with engineering and embracing the right technology at the right time, we can help our partners scale sustainably, delivering steady, reliable output without ever losing quality.
