Sweet Onion Creations
Sweet Onion Creations Sweet Onion Creations Sweet Onion Creations Sweet Onion Creations Sweet Onion Creations Sweet Onion Creations

Sweet Onion Creations

General FAQ's:

Here a few questions we typically are asked regarding our services.

Why build a model?
I like 3D renderings, why should I build a model?
What is the turn-around time?
Is accuracy a challenge?
How rugged are the models?
How big of a model can be built?
How expensive is this service?
What is the order process?
Can I pay with a credit card?
Online management?
Free quotes?
100% Satisfaction?


Why build a model?

Most people struggle to understand a 2D blueprint and models can be immensely helpful for clarifying design concepts. This saves time and identifies misconceptions much earlier in the process. The most powerful example is when a roof is removed and interior floor layouts can be seen.

I like 3D renderings, why should I build a model?

Computer visualizations are impressive. However, the audience is still limited by viewing something in two dimensions. There are two benefits to building a physical model:

1. Superior Understanding: Being able to walk around a model and peer down a potential sidewalk or remove the roof to examine the den layout builds an emotional connection that a computer screen or rendering can’t. There is just something intangibly powerful about seeing a scale miniature of a real-life idea.

2. Emotional: For some reason, people love to see miniature objects at scale and it helps develop an emotional connection with an idea. We have found it's tough to get this reaction off of just renderings alone.

What is the turn-around time?

Once the CAD file is prepped, it’s usually a matter of a few days depending on the quality and size of the requested model. Massing models for design meetings can be done in a matter of hours. Finished presentation models with site contours and landscaping features obviously take a bit longer.

Is accuracy a challenge?

The features in your design can be polished to 1/16th” accuracy for any shape. Typically, parts beyond this can be represented through other materials (for example, using wiring to represent cables). Curves, cylinders, or any organic shape that is modeled in your CAD program can be reproduced. See our gallery for examples of what can be built for architecture models.

How rugged are the models?

Each model is finished with an agent that allows it become incredibly hard to preserve the integrity of the features. After this, the models can be handled and even passed around a meeting. While we don’t recommend you drop them, they have been known to survive a decent crash or two.

How big of a model can be built?

The scale is up to you. We’ve seen examples of 5 feet tall skyscrapers with incredibly intricate exterior features built for developments, complete with interior lighting.

How expensive is this service?

The biggest variable in the cost is the preparation of the CAD file. We can work with your team to make the transition of going from the computer to our equipment much easier over time and thus cut down the cost. Typically, a finished presentation model is roughly 15-18% less than a traditional hand-built model and completed in about 1/6th the time.

What is the order process?

Once we have your CAD file we use a few software tools to estimate things like raw materials, build time, and file preparation needs. From here we can provide you with a quote for the quality of the model you’re looking to build.
Our goal is to make the modeling process as easy and efficient as possible and work alongside you to exceed your customer’s expectations. Everything is managed online through our project management solution.

Can I pay with a credit card?

Of course. We use Google Checkout to accept most major credit cards. An invoice is emailed directly from which you can click over and pay. A copy PDF is also sent for your records. Upload a file, approve the quote, click for payment, and the model arrives at your office.


Online management?

You bet. We set up all our clients with a user name and login and they are able to track the progress of their project 24 hours a day. Assign tasks, ask questions, leave messages, view pictures, and upload CAD files, it can all be managed through our website.
Our goal is to make the process of going from the digital to the physical EASY. Cutting-edge online tools allow you to manage the project, track progress, upload design changes, all from the convenience of your desk.

Free quotes?

Sure. Give us a call direct at 406.551.4854 (toll free at 866.318.1227) or email us at and let us know what you’re trying to accomplish. We’ll take a look and have a figure to you usually within 24 hours.

100% Satisfaction?

We’re a small business, as are many of our clients. If our clients can’t sell their vision then we don’t prosper either. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work, the ease of the process, and ensuring we’re going above and beyond to make a 3D vision come alive. We will work with you to ensure you are 100% satisfied with your model.

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Have a question we didn't answer?
Feel free to give us a call at 406.551.4854 or email us at