// Knowledge base

Frequently Asked
Questions

Everything you need to know about working with Madcraft — from file formats to lead times to finishing options.

Getting Started

Madcraft is a custom metal fabrication shop based in Denver, CO. We specialize in CNC laser cutting, CNC press brake bending, MIG and TIG welding, and general fabrication. We work with everything from one-off prototypes to production runs, serving industries like manufacturing, construction, agriculture, aerospace support, and commercial signage. If it's made from metal and needs to be cut, bent, or welded — we can build it.
Both. We work with small businesses, manufacturers, contractors, engineers, and individual makers alike. Whether you need a single custom bracket or a recurring production order, we'll take care of you. Larger or recurring orders do get priority scheduling, but we're happy to talk through any project regardless of size.
The fastest way is our online quote tool — upload a DXF file, enter your material and quantity, and get an instant price estimate with a full breakdown. No login required. For more complex jobs involving welding, assemblies, or custom finishes, reach out directly and we'll put together a detailed estimate.
We're located at 4444 York St, Denver, CO 80216. Local pickup is available Monday through Friday, 7AM–5PM. We do ship finished parts — contact us when requesting a quote and we'll include freight in the estimate.

Files & Quoting

DXF is preferred for laser cutting — it gives us exact geometry and is compatible with our CNC software. We also accept DWG and STEP files. If you only have a PDF or image, we can often work with it, but expect a small redraw fee and slightly longer turnaround. For bending, include bend lines and a flat pattern in your DXF if possible.
A few common factors: pierce count (every hole or cutout requires a pierce, which adds laser time), material cost (full sheets are purchased per job), low quantity (setup cost is spread across fewer parts), and tight tolerances or complex geometry. If you want to talk through how to optimize your design for cost, just reach out — we're happy to help.
Yes. For simple parts, a rough sketch, dimensions, and material type is enough to get a ballpark. Send it to sales@madcraftfab.com or use the contact form and we'll follow up. For production orders we'll need a proper drawing before final pricing.

Laser Cutting

Our 6kW fiber laser cuts mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and brass. Material thickness capabilities vary: mild steel up to 1" depending on finish requirements, stainless up to ¾", aluminum up to ½". We can discuss thicker stock on a case-by-case basis. We do not cut wood, acrylic, or non-metals.
Our 6kW fiber laser has a 5×10 foot cutting bed with dual loading tables for fast turnaround. Parts up to that size can be nested and cut in a single run. We also have an integrated tube laser for cutting round and square tube stock — no need for a separate process.
Typical tolerance is ±0.005" on cut geometry. Edge quality is excellent on thin-to-mid gauge material. On thicker stock, you may see slightly more kerf variation — we'll flag it if your application requires tighter spec. If you have GD&T callouts on your drawing, send them along and we'll confirm feasibility before cutting.

Bending & Welding

We run a Trumpf TruBend 2100 — 110-ton, 10-foot bed. We can handle simple single-bend flanges up to complex multi-bend enclosures and brackets. Standard mild steel and stainless work is our bread and butter. Include a flat pattern with bend lines in your DXF for fastest turnaround and most accurate pricing.
Yes. We have dedicated MIG and TIG welding bays and handle structural welds, cosmetic welds, and full weld assemblies. Our in-house finisher, Cristian Holguin, handles all post-weld work including grinding, deburring, and industrial finishes. For assemblies, send us a full print with weld callouts and we'll quote the complete job.

Materials & Finishing

We supply material for the majority of jobs — it's included in your quote. If you have a specific alloy, certification requirement (MTR), or surplus stock you want us to cut, we can work with customer-supplied material. Just let us know upfront so we can plan accordingly.
Our in-house finisher handles grinding, deburring, brushed finishes, and industrial patinas. For powder coating or anodizing, we work with trusted local partners and can coordinate that as part of your order. Just specify the finish you need on your quote request.
Yes. We offer PEM self-clinching hardware insertion for nuts, standoffs, and studs. Specify hardware part numbers on your drawing or reach out and we can recommend standard options. PEM work is priced per insertion and included in your quote.

Lead Times & Orders

Standard lead time is 5–10 business days from approved drawing to ship-ready parts, depending on complexity and shop load. Simple flat laser parts can sometimes turn around faster. Assemblies, finishing, or large production runs may take longer — we'll give you a firm timeline with your estimate. Rush orders can often be accommodated; ask when you request your quote.
No hard minimum, but there is a setup cost on every job that makes very small orders (1–2 parts) less economical. We'll always be upfront about that. If you're prototyping and cost is a concern, it's worth grouping multiple parts into a single order to distribute setup across more pieces.
New customers typically pay upfront or 50% deposit before production begins. Established accounts may qualify for net terms. Invoices can be paid securely online via credit card through your customer portal, or we can arrange ACH payment — just let us know your preference.
Yes. When you submit a quote and it moves into production, you'll have access to your customer portal where you can see job status, view invoices, and pay online. Portal access is created when you submit your first quote — no separate signup required.

Still have questions?

Reach out directly — we'll get back to you fast.