Challenge
For hundreds of years, flatware design has been limited by the two dimensional approach of surface pattern designers. These artisans developed new place settings from a bird’s eye view with only hand drawn cross sections to guide manufacturing, leaving much open to interpretation. Patterns developed this way required a multitude of costly steel mock-ups to capture the original design intent. This lengthy and speculative development process had to be shortened and streamlined for Cambridge Silversmiths to accelerate speed to market.

Solution
A2’s expert pattern designers were backed by both years of housewares and tabletop experience and a unique development process. Using 3D CAD software, A2 allowed Cambridge to view designs quickly in three dimensions, without the need for interpretation as obligated by flat drawings. Our industry-first in-house rapid prototyping capability allowed the client to tangibly experience the designs long before they were mocked up in steel. The resulting 3D files delivered saleable designs that were easily manufactured.

Result
Through their partnership with A2, Cambridge has become the second largest flatware marketer in America in three short years, with top selling designs at many retailers including Crate & Barrel. The manufacturers have been enthusiastic about the streamlined process, which saves them time and guesswork. Exponentially improved speed to market and “hit ratio” has done done nothing but good for the bottom line at Cambridge, and A2 continues to provide the service and results to keep them on the path to success.