About the job
Hi there!
I'm looking for an experienced mechanical or product designer to help transform a series of concept images into a fully developed, manufacturable 3D design for a Halloween-themed advent calendar.
The project involves creating a miniature Victorian-style haunted mansion featuring 31 individually numbered compartments, each concealed behind a removable door or window panel. The finished structure will be assembled primarily from laser-cut birch plywood components, with decorative architectural details that give it the appearance of an elaborate, aged Victorian mansion.
I have several concept images and architectural references that illustrate the desired appearance. These are intended as visual inspiration rather than exact blueprints. The designer will have flexibility to modify the architecture where necessary to accommodate realistic manufacturing and assembly constraints.
The primary objective is to preserve the visual complexity and character of the original concept while developing a design that can be reliably manufactured, assembled, and maintained.
I'm specifically looking for someone with experience designing physical products for laser-cut fabrication, rather than someone whose experience is limited to 3D visualization or rendering.
Preliminary Design Requirements
The design direction currently includes:
Overall dimensions: Approximately 22" wide × 10" deep × 18" tall. Dimensions can be adjusted based on feasibility and design recomm...
read more
Hi there!
I'm looking for an experienced mechanical or product designer to help transform a series of concept images into a fully developed, manufacturable 3D design for a Halloween-themed advent calendar.
The project involves creating a miniature Victorian-style haunted mansion featuring 31 individually numbered compartments, each concealed behind a removable door or window panel. The finished structure will be assembled primarily from laser-cut birch plywood components, with decorative architectural details that give it the appearance of an elaborate, aged Victorian mansion.
I have several concept images and architectural references that illustrate the desired appearance. These are intended as visual inspiration rather than exact blueprints. The designer will have flexibility to modify the architecture where necessary to accommodate realistic manufacturing and assembly constraints.
The primary objective is to preserve the visual complexity and character of the original concept while developing a design that can be reliably manufactured, assembled, and maintained.
I'm specifically looking for someone with experience designing physical products for laser-cut fabrication, rather than someone whose experience is limited to 3D visualization or rendering.
Preliminary Design Requirements
The design direction currently includes:
Overall dimensions: Approximately 22" wide × 10" deep × 18" tall. Dimensions can be adjusted based on feasibility and design recommendations.
Materials: Primarily laser-cut birch plywood, potentially using multiple material thicknesses for structural and decorative components.
Manufacturing limitations: Individual laser-cut components must accommodate a maximum cutting dimension of approximately 27".
Architecture: Victorian Gothic styling, featuring turrets, dormers, balconies, gables, layered roofing, railings, and ornamental woodwork.
Construction: A dimensional 2D/3D hybrid using layered and interlocking laser-cut components rather than conventional 3D-printed structures.
Compartments: 31 accessible compartments of varying dimensions, suitable for small treats, notes, or miniature figures approximately 1" tall.
Access panels: Numbered doors and windows should be removable and reattachable, preferably using concealed magnets.
Lighting: The structure will ultimately incorporate independently controlled internal lighting. The mechanical design should provide space for lighting elements, wiring, and illuminated openings that remain visible when compartment panels are reattached.
Base: A raised structural base with a concealed sliding storage drawer.
Not every decorative detail in the reference images needs to be replicated exactly. The expectation is to develop a practical interpretation using laser-cut components.
For example, curved architectural features may need to be converted into polygonal or faceted constructions, while decorative stonework, shingles, and trim can be represented through engraving or layered plywood.
Project Scope & Phases
Phase 1 – Concept Review & Design Feasibility
Review the provided reference images and preliminary requirements to evaluate how the desired design could be constructed using laser-cut components.
Key activities:
Evaluate the feasibility of the proposed architectural design and identify potential fabrication challenges.
Recommend modifications to complex features, including curved surfaces, towers, rooflines, balconies, and ornamental details.
Propose an overall construction approach, including structural layers, connections, assembly methods, and material thicknesses.
Evaluate the positioning and accessibility of the 31 compartments.
Identify requirements for magnetic panels, electrical wiring accommodation, and structural support.
Discuss opportunities to simplify fabrication without significantly compromising appearance.
Expected deliverables:
Initial feasibility assessment and design recommendations.
Identification of significant manufacturing or assembly risks.
Preliminary structural design strategy, supported by sketches or simplified CAD where helpful.
Agreement on design modifications before detailed development begins.
Phase 2 – Detailed 3D Modeling & Manufacturing Design
Develop a complete CAD assembly that translates the approved concept into manufacturable parts.
Key activities:
Create a detailed 3D model of the complete haunted house assembly.
Design all structural and decorative components for laser cutting.
Develop interlocking joints, attachment features, alignment methods, and suitable assembly tolerances.
Integrate all 31 compartments and their removable numbered access panels.
Design decorative architectural features using layered or faceted components appropriate for plywood construction.
Include mounting provisions and internal routing space for future lighting installation.
Validate component fit, clearances, and the overall assembly sequence within the CAD model.
Produce individual component files suitable for laser cutting.
The model should account for practical fabrication considerations such as material thickness, laser kerf, joint tolerances, and component accessibility.
Expected deliverables:
Complete 3D CAD assembly.
Individual component models.
Laser-cutting files for all components.
Assembly documentation and exploded views.
Bill of materials, including recommended plywood thicknesses and hardware.
Final review and reasonable design corrections required to address identified fit or assembly issues.
Final Deliverable Requirements
At the conclusion of the project, I would like to receive:
1. Complete 3D CAD Assembly
Fully assembled, dimensionally accurate 3D model.
Editable native CAD files (Fusion 360, SolidWorks, Onshape, or comparable software).
STEP export for compatibility with other CAD software.
2. Manufacturing-Ready Laser-Cut Files
DXF or SVG files for all laser-cut parts.
Clear differentiation between cutting, engraving, operations.
3. Assembly & Manufacturing Documentation
Exploded assembly views.
Recommended assembly sequence and connection methods.
Component identification and parts list.
Material and hardware specifications.
Identification of any components requiring non-laser-cut manufacturing processes.
4. Final Visualizations
Renderings or CAD views of the completed structure from multiple angles.
Detail views illustrating significant construction features and removable compartments.
All design files must be editable and suitable for subsequent revisions. Source files and manufacturing files should be included in the final handoff.
Skills & Experience
Required:
Experience with mechanical design or product development.
Proficiency in professional 3D CAD software.
Demonstrated experience designing products for laser cutting or CNC sheet fabrication.
Knowledge of plywood construction, joinery, tolerances, and assembly methods.
Ability to translate conceptual designs into practical manufacturing solutions.
Experience developing manufacturing drawings, cut files, and assembly documentation.
Preferred:
Previous experience designing wooden model kits, architectural miniatures, puzzles, or laser-cut mechanical assemblies.
Familiarity with magnet-based fastening and removable panels.
Experience integrating lighting or basic electronics into physical products.
Ability to recommend fabrication improvements that reduce part count, material waste, or assembly difficulty.
Experience prototyping and validating physical products.
Timeline & Collaboration
My target is to complete the project within 45–60 days of kickoff, although I am open to discussing a realistic schedule based on the complexity of the design.
I anticipate several review checkpoints throughout the project, including approval of the manufacturing approach before detailed modeling and review of the final assembly before generating production files.
I can provide the concept images, design requirements, and feedback throughout development.
Physical prototyping and electronics development are not mandatory components of the initial scope, but please indicate if you offer these services and what additional costs would apply.
Proposal Requirements
When submitting a proposal, please include:
Relevant experience: Examples of previous projects involving laser-cut wooden assemblies, architectural models, or similar products. Photos of completed physical builds are particularly helpful.
Design approach: A brief explanation of how you would translate these reference images into a manufacturable product.
Software: The CAD and manufacturing software you intend to use.
Estimated timeline: Your anticipated schedule for the review and detailed design phases.
Pricing: Your hourly rate and estimated total project cost, ideally broken down by phase. Fixed-price milestone proposals are welcome.
Deliverables: Confirmation that you can provide editable CAD source files, complete assemblies, laser-cutting files, and assembly documentation.
Relevant questions or concerns: Any initial technical challenges you foresee based on the attached concept images.
I'm looking for someone who can balance creativity with practical engineering, helping turn an ambitious visual concept into a well-designed physical product that can actually be fabricated and assembled.
Thank you, and I look forward to reviewing your proposals!
read less
Hi there!
I'm looking for an experienced mechanical or product designer to help transform a series of concept images into a fully developed, manufacturable 3D design for a Halloween-themed advent calendar.
The project involves creating a miniature Victorian-style haunted mansion featuring 31 individually numbered compartments, each concealed behind a removable door or window panel. The finis...
read more
Hi there!
I'm looking for an experienced mechanical or product designer to help transform a series of concept images into a fully developed, manufacturable 3D design for a Halloween-themed advent calendar.
The project involves creating a miniature Victorian-style haunted mansion featuring 31 individually numbered compartments, each concealed behind a removable door or window panel. The finished structure will be assembled primarily from laser-cut birch plywood components, with decorative architectural details that give it the appearance of an elaborate, aged Victorian mansion.
I have several concept images and architectural references that illustrate the desired appearance. These are intended as visual inspiration rather than exact blueprints. The designer will have flexibility to modify the architecture where necessary to accommodate realistic manufacturing and assembly constraints.
The primary objective is to preserve the visual complexity and character of the original concept while developing a design that can be reliably manufactured, assembled, and maintained.
I'm specifically looking for someone with experience designing physical products for laser-cut fabrication, rather than someone whose experience is limited to 3D visualization or rendering.
Preliminary Design Requirements
The design direction currently includes:
Overall dimensions: Approximately 22" wide × 10" deep × 18" tall. Dimensions can be adjusted based on feasibility and design recommendations.
Materials: Primarily laser-cut birch plywood, potentially using multiple material thicknesses for structural and decorative components.
Manufacturing limitations: Individual laser-cut components must accommodate a maximum cutting dimension of approximately 27".
Architecture: Victorian Gothic styling, featuring turrets, dormers, balconies, gables, layered roofing, railings, and ornamental woodwork.
Construction: A dimensional 2D/3D hybrid using layered and interlocking laser-cut components rather than conventional 3D-printed structures.
Compartments: 31 accessible compartments of varying dimensions, suitable for small treats, notes, or miniature figures approximately 1" tall.
Access panels: Numbered doors and windows should be removable and reattachable, preferably using concealed magnets.
Lighting: The structure will ultimately incorporate independently controlled internal lighting. The mechanical design should provide space for lighting elements, wiring, and illuminated openings that remain visible when compartment panels are reattached.
Base: A raised structural base with a concealed sliding storage drawer.
Not every decorative detail in the reference images needs to be replicated exactly. The expectation is to develop a practical interpretation using laser-cut components.
For example, curved architectural features may need to be converted into polygonal or faceted constructions, while decorative stonework, shingles, and trim can be represented through engraving or layered plywood.
Project Scope & Phases
Phase 1 – Concept Review & Design Feasibility
Review the provided reference images and preliminary requirements to evaluate how the desired design could be constructed using laser-cut components.
Key activities:
Evaluate the feasibility of the proposed architectural design and identify potential fabrication challenges.
Recommend modifications to complex features, including curved surfaces, towers, rooflines, balconies, and ornamental details.
Propose an overall construction approach, including structural layers, connections, assembly methods, and material thicknesses.
Evaluate the positioning and accessibility of the 31 compartments.
Identify requirements for magnetic panels, electrical wiring accommodation, and structural support.
Discuss opportunities to simplify fabrication without significantly compromising appearance.
Expected deliverables:
Initial feasibility assessment and design recommendations.
Identification of significant manufacturing or assembly risks.
Preliminary structural design strategy, supported by sketches or simplified CAD where helpful.
Agreement on design modifications before detailed development begins.
Phase 2 – Detailed 3D Modeling & Manufacturing Design
Develop a complete CAD assembly that translates the approved concept into manufacturable parts.
Key activities:
Create a detailed 3D model of the complete haunted house assembly.
Design all structural and decorative components for laser cutting.
Develop interlocking joints, attachment features, alignment methods, and suitable assembly tolerances.
Integrate all 31 compartments and their removable numbered access panels.
Design decorative architectural features using layered or faceted components appropriate for plywood construction.
Include mounting provisions and internal routing space for future lighting installation.
Validate component fit, clearances, and the overall assembly sequence within the CAD model.
Produce individual component files suitable for laser cutting.
The model should account for practical fabrication considerations such as material thickness, laser kerf, joint tolerances, and component accessibility.
Expected deliverables:
Complete 3D CAD assembly.
Individual component models.
Laser-cutting files for all components.
Assembly documentation and exploded views.
Bill of materials, including recommended plywood thicknesses and hardware.
Final review and reasonable design corrections required to address identified fit or assembly issues.
Final Deliverable Requirements
At the conclusion of the project, I would like to receive:
1. Complete 3D CAD Assembly
Fully assembled, dimensionally accurate 3D model.
Editable native CAD files (Fusion 360, SolidWorks, Onshape, or comparable software).
STEP export for compatibility with other CAD software.
2. Manufacturing-Ready Laser-Cut Files
DXF or SVG files for all laser-cut parts.
Clear differentiation between cutting, engraving, operations.
3. Assembly & Manufacturing Documentation
Exploded assembly views.
Recommended assembly sequence and connection methods.
Component identification and parts list.
Material and hardware specifications.
Identification of any components requiring non-laser-cut manufacturing processes.
4. Final Visualizations
Renderings or CAD views of the completed structure from multiple angles.
Detail views illustrating significant construction features and removable compartments.
All design files must be editable and suitable for subsequent revisions. Source files and manufacturing files should be included in the final handoff.
Skills & Experience
Required:
Experience with mechanical design or product development.
Proficiency in professional 3D CAD software.
Demonstrated experience designing products for laser cutting or CNC sheet fabrication.
Knowledge of plywood construction, joinery, tolerances, and assembly methods.
Ability to translate conceptual designs into practical manufacturing solutions.
Experience developing manufacturing drawings, cut files, and assembly documentation.
Preferred:
Previous experience designing wooden model kits, architectural miniatures, puzzles, or laser-cut mechanical assemblies.
Familiarity with magnet-based fastening and removable panels.
Experience integrating lighting or basic electronics into physical products.
Ability to recommend fabrication improvements that reduce part count, material waste, or assembly difficulty.
Experience prototyping and validating physical products.
Timeline & Collaboration
My target is to complete the project within 45–60 days of kickoff, although I am open to discussing a realistic schedule based on the complexity of the design.
I anticipate several review checkpoints throughout the project, including approval of the manufacturing approach before detailed modeling and review of the final assembly before generating production files.
I can provide the concept images, design requirements, and feedback throughout development.
Physical prototyping and electronics development are not mandatory components of the initial scope, but please indicate if you offer these services and what additional costs would apply.
Proposal Requirements
When submitting a proposal, please include:
Relevant experience: Examples of previous projects involving laser-cut wooden assemblies, architectural models, or similar products. Photos of completed physical builds are particularly helpful.
Design approach: A brief explanation of how you would translate these reference images into a manufacturable product.
Software: The CAD and manufacturing software you intend to use.
Estimated timeline: Your anticipated schedule for the review and detailed design phases.
Pricing: Your hourly rate and estimated total project cost, ideally broken down by phase. Fixed-price milestone proposals are welcome.
Deliverables: Confirmation that you can provide editable CAD source files, complete assemblies, laser-cutting files, and assembly documentation.
Relevant questions or concerns: Any initial technical challenges you foresee based on the attached concept images.
I'm looking for someone who can balance creativity with practical engineering, helping turn an ambitious visual concept into a well-designed physical product that can actually be fabricated and assembled.
Thank you, and I look forward to reviewing your proposals!
read less