Pricing

Ever Wonder Why You Didn’t Expect to Hear That Price?

It’s not just you. Most people don’t realize what goes into a handcrafted build until they see it laid out. The time, the tools, the materials—it adds up fast.

I don’t want to raise prices. I need to. These changes aren’t about profit—they’re about staying afloat, honoring the process, and continuing to grow the shop. I’m doing my best to keep things accessible while still making sure I can keep showing up for the work that matters.

There is a reason there are no prices on this website. No two builds are the same. While the prices are close, just like every build, every price is different—shaped by the materials, the design, the time, and the story behind it.

Here’s a peek behind the scenes:

🧮 What Goes Into a Build

Not just wood and time—here’s a breakdown.

Example 1: Standard Cedar Cribbage Board

• Lumber: ~$50

• Machine Time:

  • CNC: 8 hours

    • Fair rate: $25–$50/hour

  • Laser: 1 hour

    • Fair rate: $25–$35/hour

  • Actual charged rate: $0/hour

• Hardware:

  • Pegs: $8

  • Cards: $10–$20 (customer’s choice)

• Finishing & Incidentals:

  • Glue, clamps, double-sided tape, sanding pads, finish

  • Bits (expensive, short-lived)

  • Electricity

• Software & Infrastructure:

  • CNC software license

  • Laser software

  • Design software

• Actual Price Charged: $130

• Profit Margin: Slim to none

Example 2: Custom Cigar Humidor

• Wood:

  • Red Oak: $62

  • Cedar base plate: $2

  • Ashtray insert (hardwood): $40

• Hardware & Accessories:

  • Hydrometer: $18

  • Humidifier: $8

  • Hinges: $15

  • Ornate corners: $10

  • Hasp: $10

  • Lighter & cigar cutter: $15

  • Magnets: $3

• Machine Time:

  • CNC: 12 hours

    • Fair rate: $25–$50/hour

  • Laser: 1 hour

    • Fair rate: $25–$35/hour

  • Actual charged rate: $0/hour

• Finishing & Incidentals:

  • Finish: $10

  • Glue, clamps, tape, bits, electricity

  • Bits (expensive, short-lived)

• Software & Infrastructure:

  • CNC, laser, and design software licenses

• Actual Price Charged: $200

• Profit Margin: [Likely minimal]

“I don’t charge machine time—because most people couldn’t afford it. A faster CNC would cut that time in half, but upgrading costs $3,000–$5,000. Same goes for the laser—another $3,000 to improve speed and precision. Eventually, it will happen. But not at my current rates.”

Why It Matters: Every piece is built to last, designed with intention, and backed by 3DW’s standards. If it leaves the shop, it’s because I stand behind it.