James Fox, Owner of Fox Woodworking, recently spoke about his experience with VORTEK Spaces and how he uses it alongside Toolbox, Microvellum's AutoCAD-based CAD/CAM software.
James Fox, owner of Fox Woodworking, recalls starting his custom cabinetry shop using only paper, pencil, and T-squares for designs. As client requests became more demanding, Fox struggled with making edits manually. “If a client asked for changes, I’d be back at the drawing board,” he shared. Transitioning to Microvellum’s AutoCAD-based software was a game-changer, allowing him to deliver faster, more accurate designs, enabling greater flexibility in his custom millwork and furniture projects.
Gaining Efficiency and Reducing Material Waste
Beyond flexibility, Microvellum has drastically improved material usage in Fox’s shop. “Before, we would almost always have two to four sheets of plywood left over per job,” Fox explained. Now, with Microvellum’s precision, Fox Woodworking rarely has excess materials. "The estimating and pricing processes are more effective now. I just cut parts to the sizes on the optimization report, do the machining, and everything fits together perfectly," said Fox. The reduced waste and increased efficiency have been invaluable for his growing business.
"That efficiency has been worth every penny. It's really hard to think that I actually did it all by hand many years ago.”
Enhancing 3D Rendering with VORTEK Spaces
Fox's next leap came when he discovered VORTEK Spaces, a 3D presentation software, at a Cabinet Makers Association conference. “It knocked me off my feet,” Fox said. “Integrating it with Microvellum was easy, and clients are always floored by the 3D walkthroughs, images, and virtual reality presentations.” With VORTEK, Fox has elevated his sales process, allowing clients to visualize custom cabinetry and millwork designs, enhancing the overall experience. “It makes my small shop look like a larger, more professional operation,” he noted.
The Power of Combining Microvellum and VORTEK Spaces
VORTEK Spaces complements the power of Microvellum, allowing Fox Woodworking to not only design and manufacture efficiently but also to showcase projects in a compelling, interactive way. “We have the best of both worlds,” Fox said. The ability to demonstrate designs through immersive presentations has proven invaluable in helping clients visualize and approve projects. “The partnership between Microvellum and VORTEK is perfect for my business,” Fox concluded.
Microvellum’s CAD/CAM platform and VORTEK Spaces have revolutionized Fox Woodworking’s approach, enhancing both production and client satisfaction. To learn more about VORTEK Spaces and how they can transform your business, visit.
About Fox Woodworking
Fox Woodworking, located in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, specializes in custom cabinetry and architectural millwork. With over 15 years of experience, they offer high-quality cabinetry, built-ins, and woodwork for residential and commercial clients, known for their attention to detail and craftsmanship
Learn more about Fox Woodworking.
About VORTEK Spaces
VORTEK Spaces is an award-winning 3D presentation software for design professionals and sales representatives based in Quebec, Canada. Once projects have been drawn in Microvellum's AutoCAD-based software, Toolbox, VORTEK Spaces can be used to present, with features including live 3D walkthroughs, images, videos, 360-degree videos, VR (virtual reality) and more.
Learn more about VORTEK Spaces