Jon Wheat is a custom furniture designer. He describes his creations as “residentially inspired, commercial grade furniture.” He is currently in the process of designing three new furniture lines for a group of boutique hotels including the Magic Castle Hotel and Suites in Hollywood, Ca

What's the problem?

Jon’s current manufacturing process is long and complicated. “The process starts with an idea and then a conversation where I collaborate with the furniture maker. That turns into concept sketches and inspiration boards to help make sure we’re both on the same page.” he explains. “After that I make a 2D illustration with rough measurements which I then take back to my manufacturer to be made into a physical prototype."

“It’s a long road from my ‘cartoons’ to the final piece.  I’m just looking for a way to be closer to the finish line when I start.”   Jon Wheat — “It’s a long road from my ‘cartoons’ to the final piece. I’m just looking for a way to be closer to the finish line when I start.” Jon Wheat

Then there’s the hard part where we iterate on the design. When we need to make changes or I just don’t like the direction I have to throw it all away and start all over again. And since I’m not the only client, I have to wait in line to get a new prototype. It’s a bit frustrating.”

Jon Wheat is making the transition to digital patterning in order to help shorten the time between design and production.   Click on the image to see how ExactFlat for SOLIDWORKS can help. — Jon Wheat is making the transition to digital patterning in order to help shorten the time between design and production. Click on the image to see how ExactFlat for SOLIDWORKS can help.

Moving to 3D and Digital Patterning to save time

Jon is turning to 3D in hopes of finding a quicker way to turn his visions into a reality “Getting the initial piece made fast and then being able to make quick changes is the difference between making my clients happy and losing my shirt on these deals.” says Jon. “I’ve just started learning how to import my sketches into 3D CAD. Once I have my design in the CAD model the process of converting the 3D into a 2D pattern with Exactflat works perfectly. ”

With the help of Digital Patterning, Jon is one step further on the never ending quest to deliver custom furniture that delights his clients and drives profit for his firm. To start perfecting your own process click the link below and book time to talk to an expert

And don’t forget to check out Jon’s beautiful designs at Design in Rhythm!

About the Author

Siena Brown is a marketing intern for ExactFlat. A firm supporter of innovation, she is interested in the unique new tools which enable creators to turn their visions into products. She currently attends the University of Puget Sound, where she is pursuing degrees in English and Communications Studies.