Things to think about regarding estimates:
Estimates can only be given when there's a plan that illustrates and answers this question: "What are we making?" What target are we aiming for? For peace of mind on both ends, we do our best to provide accurate estimates, and try to allow for extra development and unforseen issues so we can bill for the work done and hopefully match the estimate with billing or even charge slightly less. When a design plan is submitted, our estimate is only as good as the plan - the more specific your design-plan, the more obligated we are to honor the estimate. "Estimates are only as accurate as the plans given" is an easy guideline to remember. Should the plan change in the middle of developing the orignal plan than the estimate is null and void, and the project will be billed according to the time spent at our billing rate (as well as any rush charges that may apply), and if necessary, model-making strategy, which can change due to geometry (size/shape) and complexity of the setup.
If you're under a tight timeline, please allow for extra cost in your project. If you're waiting for an estimate you're losing time, and your place in line. You can expect rush charges if we have to go outside of our production cycles for model-making AND casting to deliver a job ontime.
Regarding guesstimates:
We will provide a range or a "ballpark" guess. When you are offered the guesstimate option it's because the plans submitted aren't sufficient to provide a solid estimate. We don't really know the project's destination, or the route. Oftentimes, it's a bit of a tour in different concepts; Once the project is honed in to the basic geometry, we add the detail and artistic elements. Please allow for extra development on these according to your best guess and your read on your customer. If there's lots of detail, picky customers, lots of changes, you can expect to exceed the guesstimate.
If you're combining feature from different designs, or select "make me something" for your design plan then no estimate can be given.
It's our goal to deliver a successful project with beautiful design elements while manufacturing a piece that is easy to produce and enjoyable to work with!