FAQs

Getting Started

How do I know if PDX Artisan is a fit for my project?

We’re a great fit if you:

Have a custom idea, sketch, or file and need clean, accurate steel parts
Are a maker, artist, blacksmith working on small-scale projects
Teach welding or metalworking, and need repeatable, high-quality components
Want to skip hours of prep and start with parts that fit and look great

It may not be the right fit if you:

Need large-scale mass production
Require ultra-high precision machining beyond plasma cutting
Are looking for a fully finished fabrication and installation service

I have an idea, but no CAD file. Can you still help?

Yep. A lot of projects start this way.

You can bring a sketch or reference image. From there, we can translate your idea into a cut-ready design. You don’t need to know CAD—we’ll take care of that part.

What do I need to get a quote?

The more detail, the better—but you don’t need everything figured out.

Helpful info includes:

Dimensions or approximate size
Quantity
A file, sketch, reference image, etc.

If you’re unsure, just reach out—we can help you fill in the gaps.

Do you work with beginners or hobbyists?

Absolutely.

Whether it’s your first project or your hundredth, you’ll get clear guidance and parts that are easy to work with.

To get started, fill out our Project Request Form with the details you have.

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Design & Files

What file types do you accept for CNC cutting?

Vector files like DXF, SVG, or AI are ideal.

If you don’t have one, we can help create or clean up your design so it’s ready for cutting.

What if my file isn’t perfect?

That’s normal.

We’ll review your file, flag anything that might cause issues—like gaps, overlaps, or details that won’t cut cleanly—and help you fix them before production.

How much does file preparation cost?

Pricing varies based on the complexity of your design and the amount of updating your file requires. Just share your project information to get us started.

Visit our CAD File Prep Page to learn more and submit details about your project.

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CNC Cutting & Materials

What materials do you cut?

We primarily cut steel.

What thickness of metal can you cut?

We can cut up to 5/8” gauge steel in sheets up to 4’ x 8’. If needed, we can guide you toward the right thickness for strength, weight, and weldability.

How clean are the cuts? Will I need to do a lot of cleanup?

CNC Plasma cuts are precise. Compared to hand cutting, you’ll save significant time on production and cleanup, and you’ll get a much better fit between parts.

Slag is minimal, though it is rarely eliminated 100%, especially on intricate designs. If you need cleaned, “dross-free” parts that exceed the industry standard for plasma CNC cutting, please note that on your intake form.

Do you do large production runs?

If you need repeatable parts, like bulk metal blanks, that’s a great fit—but this isn’t mass manufacturing. We focus primarily on small batches.

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Blanks & Kits

What are Metal Blanks?

Metal Blanks are pre-cut components used for welding, blacksmithing, and repeatable builds.

Examples include shapes such as flower petals, bottle-opener blanks, pendants, and others, all cut and ready for assembly. Visit the Metal Blanks page to see what’s currently available.

I’m an instructor. How do blanks help in a class setting?

Metal blanks eliminate hours of prep for you and improve student outcomes.

Instead of struggling with rough cuts, students start with clean parts that fit together properly—so they can focus on technique.

Can I order blanks in bulk for my classes?

Yes. Bulk and repeat orders are common for instructors.

What are Metal Welding Kits?

Metal Welding Kits include all the pre-cut steel pieces needed to complete a project. They’re designed to fit cleanly and go together without guesswork—great for beginners, hobbyists, workshops, or structured classes.

Do kits come with instructions?

Yes—kits include a User’s Guide to help you assemble and complete the project successfully.

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