Help & Field Notes

Straightforward answers and practical guidance from the workshop

ORDERING & CUSTOM BUILDS

Find clear information about custom orders, paracord, laser engraving, materials, artwork, care and delivery.Quick answers are grouped by subject. Where a topic needs more detail, the BROCK EDC Field Notes provide practical guidance without overcomplicating it.

How do I place an order?Click CONTACT and send a brief outline of what you have in mind. Include the product, quantity, required date and any key personalisation details.This opens the conversation. Once the basic requirements are understood, BROCK EDC will send you a Microsoft Form to collect the full order information in one place.Depending on the job, you may be asked to provide:• Product type, size and quantity
• Wording, names, dates or messages
• Preferred font and text size
• Cord type, colours, weave and sizing
• Material and finish preferences
• Required completion date
• Delivery or collection details
• Logos, photographs, sketches or reference images
• Any specific layout or positioning instructionsFor engraving, send the highest-quality original image available. Clear, well-lit photographs and sharp logo files produce the best results. Avoid screenshots, heavily compressed images or blurred photos where possible.BROCK EDC will review the information, confirm what is achievable, ask any follow-up questions and provide a quotation before work begins.Can I send photographs or artwork?Yes. Reference images, logos, photographs and sketches can be reviewed before a quotation is confirmed.Will I approve the design first?Where custom artwork is required, a design proof will normally be agreed before production begins. Check all names, dates and wording carefully before approval.How long will my order take?Turnaround depends on the complexity of the design, material availability, quantity and current workshop workload. Required dates should be raised at the start.How do I pay?Once the quotation has been agreed and the design confirmed, payment instructions will be provided.For larger or bespoke commissions, a deposit may be required before production begins.Production normally starts once payment has been received and artwork has been approved.Accepted payment methods will be confirmed with your quotation.

GUIDE PRICESTransparent pricing to help you plan your custom build.The prices below are intended as a guide only. Every BROCK EDC commission is made to order, so the final quotation will depend on the materials, design complexity and level of customisation.If supplier costs or material availability affect the final price, this will always be discussed and agreed before production begins.PARACORDBraceletsBuild Guide Price:• Standard £15–20
• Premium £20–25
• Custom Commission QuotedPremium builds may include:• Micro Cord stitching
• Premium hardware
• Decorative beads
• Engraved tags
• Complex weave patterns
• Multi-colour designsLanyardsAvailable in three standard sizes. Prices vary depending on the chosen build specification, fittings and finishing details.Size Finished Length Guide Price:• Small 8–12 cm £6–10
• Medium 12–16 cm £10–14
• Large 16–22 cm £14–18The upper end of each range may include:• Multiple cord colours
• Standard or premium beads
• Upgraded clips or fittings
• Micro Cord detailing
• Decorative knots
• Engraved tagsOther Paracord Products• Ranger Beads £20–35
• Knife Lanyards £10–24
• Zip Pulls £4–10
• Torch Lanyards £10–24
• Custom Builds QuotedLASER ENGRAVINGProduct Guide Price:• Slate Coasters £9–16
• Wooden Coasters £9–16
• Leather Bookmarks £8–14
• Wooden Key Rings £8–14
• Leather Notebooks £22–36
• Tumblers (Customer Supplied £16–26
• Tumblers (Supplied by BROCK EDC) £35–75
• Wooden Business Card £10–15
• Metal Business Card £12–18
• NFC Business Card From £22Custom Commissions QuotedBESPOKE COMMISSIONS:Presentation pieces, memorial commissions, military heritage displays, business branding and larger multi-item orders are quoted individually following an initial discussion.PRICING NOTES
• All prices are shown in GBP (£).
• Guide prices are based on the most common BROCK EDC commissions.
• Custom artwork, premium materials and additional personalisation may affect the final quotation.
• Material availability and supplier pricing may change from time to time.
• Any changes to the quoted price will always be discussed and agreed before production begins.
• No work will commence until the quotation has been accepted.No Fuss, Just Solid Gear.

FIELD NOTE 001

Paracord: Types, Uses & Weaves

The right cord for the right job.Paracord began as lightweight suspension line for military parachutes. Its strength, flexibility and compact size soon made it useful far beyond the parachute itself for securing equipment, repairs, lashing, retention and general field use.Today, paracord is available in several sizes. Each produces a different balance of strength, bulk, detail and finished appearance.Cord Types550 ParacordDiameter: approximately 4 mm
Rated strength: 550 lb
Inner strands: 7The standard choice for substantial bracelets, lanyards and general EDC builds.Best suited to:• Bracelets
• Ranger beads
• Knife and torch lanyards
• Gear retainers
• Key fobs
• Outdoor utilityIt creates a bold, durable weave and works well where strength and a solid feel matter.325 ParacordDiameter: approximately 3 mm
Rated strength: 325 lb
Inner strands: 3A slimmer alternative to 550 that retains useful strength without the same bulk.Best suited to:• Lightweight bracelets
• Slim lanyards
• Detailed multi-colour builds
• Watch straps
• Compact EDC accessories275 ParacordDiameter: approximately 2.5 mm
Rated strength: 275 lb
Inner strands: 4Useful for finer work where flexibility and reduced size are more important than maximum strength.Best suited to:• Low-profile bracelets
• Smaller lanyards
• Zip pulls
• Key organisers
• Detailed knots and compact weaves95 ParacordDiameter: approximately 1.7 mm
Rated strength: 95 lb
Inner strands: 1A light utility cord that works well for smaller accessories and fine detailing.Best suited to:• Small gear retainers
• Zip pulls
• Compact knots
• Decorative accents
• Lightweight emergency cordMicro CordDiameter: approximately 1.18 mm
Rated strength: 90 lb
Inner strands: noneMicro Cord is commonly stitched through larger paracord weaves to create borders, patterns and colour highlights.It adds detail without significantly increasing the size of the finished build.Nano CordDiameter: approximately 0.75 mm
Rated strength: 36 lb
Inner strands: noneNano Cord is extremely compact and suited to light-duty tasks where minimal bulk matters.Best suited to:• Dummy cords
• Fine gear retention
• Emergency repairs
• Fishing or survival kits
• Decorative wrappingChoosing a WeaveThe weave affects more than appearance.A flat weave normally sits comfortably against the wrist. Rounded or layered weaves create more texture and a heavier profile. Tighter, more complex patterns use additional cord and take longer to construct.BROCK EDC builds may include:• Flat bracelet weaves
• Rounded lanyard weaves
• Multi-colour patterns
• Micro Cord stitching
• Decorative knots
• Beads, clips and engraved tagsThe strongest cord is not always the best choice. The right build depends on how the item will be worn, carried and used.BROCK’S NOTE
"Choose the cord to suit the job, not simply the biggest number"Important: Published breaking strengths are manufacturer ratings, not safe working loads. BROCK EDC paracord products are not certified for climbing, lifting, rescue or personal protection.No Fuss, Just Solid Gear

FIELD NOTE 002

Paracord Fit & Care

A good build should fit properly and stay serviceable.Paracord bracelets and wearables are made to order. The final size depends on the weave, cord thickness, closure and how tightly the finished piece is worn.A correct wrist measurement gives BROCK EDC the best starting point.Measuring Your WristWrap a flexible tape measure around the wrist where the bracelet will sit.Measure the wrist itself not an existing bracelet.Keep the tape:• Flat against the skin
• Comfortable, not pulled tight
• Close enough to avoid a loose readingSend the measurement exactly as taken.Do not add extra length. The required allowance will be calculated according to the chosen weave and closure.Choosing the FitSnugSits close to the wrist with limited movement.Best for:• Low-profile everyday wear
• Working around equipment
• Customers who dislike loose braceletsStandardComfortable with a small amount of movement.This is the usual choice for most builds.LooseAllows more movement around the wrist.Best for customers who prefer a relaxed fit, although larger or heavier bracelets may move more during use.What Affects the Final Size?The same wrist measurement can produce different finished lengths depending on:• Cord type
• Weave thickness
• Number of layers
• Buckle or closure
• Beads and fittings
• Micro Cord stitching
• Intended fitThis is why BROCK EDC sizes the finished product around the full build specification rather than using a single standard allowance.Cleaning ParacordMost paracord products can be cleaned by hand.Use:• Lukewarm water
• Mild soap
• A soft cloth or soft brushRinse away any soap and allow the item to dry naturally.Avoid:• Washing machines
• Tumble dryers
• Bleach
• Strong detergents
• Solvents
• Direct heat
• Water, Mud and SaltParacord handles normal wet conditions well, but it should not be stored while damp.After exposure to mud, sweat or salt water:• Rinse with clean water.
• Remove surface dirt gently.
• Allow the item to air dry fully.Salt and dirt can collect around beads, clips and closures, so these areas may need extra attention.Sunlight and HeatLong-term exposure to strong sunlight may gradually fade some colours.Keep paracord away from:• Open flames
• Hot machinery
• Vehicle dashboards in strong sun
• Radiators and direct heatersHeat can damage the nylon and affect the finished shape.Hardware and BeadsMetal fittings should be wiped clean and dried after exposure to moisture.Natural wear, surface marks and changes in finish may develop over time. This is normal for an item designed to be carried and used.BROCK’S NOTE
"Measure the wrist. Let the build account for the rest."Important: Paracord bracelets and accessories are not certified climbing, lifting, rescue or personal-protection equipment.No Fuss, Just Solid Gear.

FIELD NOTE 003

Laser Engraving: What Works

Good engraving starts before the laser fires.Laser engraving works by marking, removing or changing the surface of a material. The final result depends on three things:The quality of the artwork
The material being engraved
The way the design is prepared for that surfaceBROCK EDC uses the xTool F2 dual-laser system, allowing work across slate, wood, leather, coated materials and selected metals.Engraving, Embossing and 3D EffectsLaser EngravingLaser engraving creates a permanent mark by removing a coating, changing the surface or producing controlled contrast.The result may be:• Light on dark
• Dark on light
• Surface marked
• Coating removed
• Lightly recessed
• EmbossingEmbossing raises a design above the surface using pressure, dies or forming tools.BROCK EDC does not emboss. However, shading and contrast can sometimes create a raised or dimensional appearance.3D Engraving“3D engraving” can mean two different things:A genuine engraved depth created through repeated passes
A visual 3D effect created using highlights, shadows and tonal shadingBROCK EDC mainly produces detailed surface engraving and controlled shallow-depth work. True deep-relief engraving depends on the material, design and limitations of the item.PhotographsPhotographs can engrave well, but not every image is suitable.The strongest source images are:• Sharp and in focus
• Well lit
• High resolution
• Clearly separated from the background
• Free from heavy filters
• Supplied as the original file where possibleAvoid sending:• Screenshots
• Images downloaded from social media
• Blurred photographs
• Dark subjects against dark backgrounds
• Heavily compressed files
• Tiny images enlarged artificiallyPortraits, pets and detailed objects usually work best when the main subject is clearly visible.Logos and ArtworkFor logos, badges and line artwork, the preferred files are:• SVG
• PDF vector
• AI or EPS
• High-resolution PNG
• Clear black-and-white artworkA low-quality logo can often be redrawn, but this may affect the quotation.Text, Fonts and SizingWhen requesting text engraving, provide:• Exact wording
• Correct spelling
• Preferred font
• Approximate text size
• Position and alignment
• Capitalisation requirementsVery thin fonts and small lettering may lose clarity, especially on textured materials.Where necessary, BROCK EDC may recommend a heavier font or simplified layout. We'll work with you to get the best results.Materials Commonly EngravedTypical materials include:• Slate
• Wood
• Natural and synthetic leather
• Anodised aluminium
• Coated metal
• Stainless steel
• Brass and selected metals
• Glass
• Suitable customer-supplied itemsEach material reacts differently. A design that works well on slate may need to be simplified before engraving onto metal, leather or wood.What BROCK EDC Will Not EngraveWork may be refused where the material, artwork or item creates unnecessary risk.This may include:• PVC or unknown plastics
• Materials that may release toxic fumes
• Damaged or unstable items
Items with unknown coatings
• Copyrighted artwork without permission
• Designs that cannot be reproduced clearly
• Customer-supplied items where failure could cause unacceptable lossIf there is doubt, the item or material will be assessed before the work is confirmed.Customer-Supplied ItemsSelected customer-supplied products may be accepted, but suitability must be confirmed first.Considerations include:• Material type
• Surface coating
• Shape and size
• Heat sensitivity
• Replacement value
• Whether a test area is availableBecause customer-supplied items may be unique or difficult to replace, the risks will be discussed before engraving begins.BROCK’S NOTE
"The laser can only work with the detail it is given. Start with the best image you have."Important: Natural materials and surface coatings vary. Small differences in colour, grain, texture and finish are normal.No Fuss, Just Solid Gear.

FIELD NOTE 004

Materials, Finish & Care

The material shapes the result.Laser engraving does not produce the same finish on every surface. Slate, wood, leather, metal and glass all react differently, and natural materials will always show some variation.That is part of the character of the finished piece, not a fault.SlateSlate produces strong contrast and works well for:• Coasters
• Plaques
• Memorial pieces
• Presentation items
• Detailed black-and-white artworkNatural SlateNatural slate gives a raw, textured finish. Each piece may vary in colour, mineral pattern, edge shape and surface texture.AdvantagesStrong natural character
Good contrast
Durable surface
Every piece is slightly differentThings to consider• Fine detail may vary across rough areas
• Edges and thickness may not be identical
• Natural markings can affect the final appearanceCoated SlateCoated slate has a treatment applied to deepen colour or improve contrast.AdvantagesDarker, richer appearance
Stronger visual contrast
More consistent presentationThings to consider• The coating may show handling marks
• Care is needed when cleaning
• The finish may change over time with useWoodWood gives a warm, natural finish, but grain and density affect how it engraves.Common influences include:• Grain direction
• Knots
• Resin
• Moisture content
• Surface finish
• Natural colour variationThe same design may appear darker on one section and lighter on another.Wood should be wiped clean rather than soaked. Unless specifically stated, engraved wooden products should not be placed in a dishwasher.LeatherLeather can produce a clean, rich engraving, but the final tone depends on the leather type, colour and surface treatment.Natural leather may:• Darken with use
• Develop a patina
• Show minor marks
• Soften over timeThis ageing is normal and often improves the character of the piece.Clean gently with a soft cloth. Avoid soaking, harsh detergents and direct heat.MetalMetal engraving may remove a coating, create a dark surface mark or produce a light engraved finish.Typical materials include:• Anodised aluminium
• Coated metal
• Stainless steel
• Brass
• Selected customer-supplied itemsMetal finishes can vary depending on:• Alloy
• Coating thickness
• Surface polish
• Heat response
• Existing wearUse a soft cloth for cleaning. Avoid aggressive abrasive cleaners unless the item is specifically designed for them.Anodised MaterialsAnodising creates a hard protective oxide layer on metals such as aluminium. The laser normally removes or alters this surface layer to reveal a contrasting mark beneath.Common anodised items include:• Aluminium tags
• Business cards
• Key rings
• Equipment plates
• Torch bodies
• Selected EDC accessoriesAdvantages• Clean, sharp contrast
• Good detail retention
• Durable surface finish
• Suitable for text, logos and fine lineworkThings to consider• Different colours may engrave with different levels of contrast
• Coating thickness can vary between suppliers
• Deep engraving is usually not required
• Surface scratches or wear may remain visible around the engraved area
• Results can vary between batches, even when the colour appears identicalClean anodised surfaces with a soft cloth and mild cleaner. Avoid aggressive abrasives, as these may scratch or dull the finish.GlassGlass engraving creates a frosted effect rather than a coloured mark.The finish can be crisp and attractive, but glass requires careful handling before and after engraving.Things to consider:• Fine details may need simplifying
• Curved surfaces can limit the engraving area
• Some glass types react more evenly than others
• Small natural variations may occurClean with a soft cloth and normal glass cleaner unless otherwise advised.Natural VariationNo two natural materials are identical.Slate may vary in texture. Wood may vary in grain. Leather may vary in tone. Metal coatings may respond differently between batches.Where matching sets are required, BROCK EDC will select materials as carefully as possible, but small differences should still be expected.General CareTo help maintain the finish:• Avoid harsh chemicals
• Avoid abrasive pads
• Keep products away from excessive heat
• Dry items fully after cleaning
• Store carefully when not in use
• Follow any product-specific care advice providedBROCK’S NOTENatural materials do not produce factory-perfect copies. That is part of what makes each piece worth keeping.No Fuss, Just Solid Gear.

FIELD NOTE 005

Your Custom Commission

Clear information. Clear approval. No surprises.Every BROCK EDC commission starts with a conversation.The aim is simple: understand what you want, confirm what is achievable and agree the details before production begins.1. Initial EnquiryClick CONTACT and send a short outline of your idea.Include:• Product type
• Quantity
• Required date
• Personalisation
• Preferred materials or colours
• Any reference imagesYou do not need every detail at this stage. The first message simply opens the discussion.2. Project BriefOnce the basic requirement is understood, BROCK EDC may send you a Project Brief using Microsoft Forms.Depending on the commission, this may ask for:• Exact wording
• Names and dates
• Font choice and text size
• Product dimensions
• Wrist measurement
• Cord colours and weave
• Quantity
• Delivery details
• Logos, photographs or artwork
• Layout or positioning instructionsFor engraving, always provide the highest-quality original image available.3. Review and AdviceThe information will be reviewed before the work is confirmed.BROCK EDC may recommend:• Simplifying fine detail
• Using a clearer font
• Adjusting the layout
• Changing the material
• Improving the source image
• Selecting a different cord or fittingIf something is unlikely to work well, this will be explained before production begins.4. QuotationYou will receive a quotation based on:• Materials
• Hardware
• Artwork preparation
• Design complexity
• Quantity
• Production time
• Delivery requirementsGuide prices help with early planning, but the confirmed quotation is the final agreed price.If supplier costs or material availability create a change, this will be flagged before the order is confirmed.5. Design ApprovalWhere a proof is required, check it carefully before approval.You are responsible for confirming:• Spelling
• Names
• Dates
• Measurements
• Font choice
• Positioning
• Artwork permission
• Final layoutOnce approved, changes may affect the price or completion date.6. PaymentPayment instructions will be supplied with the quotation.A deposit may be required for:• Bespoke artwork
• Higher-value materials
• Large orders
• Complex commissionsProduction normally begins after payment and design approval.7. ProductionOnce confirmed, the commission moves into production.BROCK EDC will:• Prepare the artwork
• Inspect the materials
• Set up the equipment
• Produce the item
• Finish and clean the product
• Complete a final quality checkNatural variation in slate, wood and leather should be expected.8. Delivery or CollectionDelivery or collection arrangements will be confirmed before completion.If the item is needed for a specific date, raise this during the initial enquiry. A deadline is only confirmed once the quotation, artwork and production schedule have been agreed.Your PartProvide accurate information, suitable images, correct measurements and timely approval and payment.BROCK EDC’s PartProvide honest advice, clear communication, careful workmanship and a finished product that matches the agreed specification.BROCK’S NOTE
"The smoother the information, the smoother the build."No Fuss, Just Solid Gear.

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Thank you

Your enquiry has been received.
Thanks for getting in touch with BROCK EDC.I've received your enquiry and will review it as soon as possible.If your project needs more detail, I'll send you a BROCK EDC Project Build Form where you can provide measurements, upload artwork, reference photographs and any other information needed to quote and produce your order.Most enquiries receive a reply within 24–48 hours, although this may take a little longer during busy periods.In the meantime, feel free to continue exploring the site or follow BROCK EDC on Instagram or LinkedIn, for workshop updates, new projects and product releases.I look forward to discussing your build.
No Fuss, Just Solid Gear.

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Returns & Warranty

ReturnsAs most BROCK EDC products are personalised or made to order, they cannot normally be returned simply because you have changed your mind.Please check all design proofs carefully before giving approval.If There Is a ProblemIf your order arrives damaged or does not match the agreed specification, please contact BROCK EDC within 7 days of receiving it.Where appropriate, I will:Repair the item
Replace the item
Offer a suitable refundThe solution will depend on the nature of the issue.WarrantyEvery item is inspected before it leaves the workshop.This warranty covers faults resulting from workmanship or manufacturing.It does not cover:Normal wear and tear
Accidental damage
Misuse
Incorrect storage
Exposure to excessive heat or chemicals
Damage caused by modifications after delivery
Natural MaterialsEach item is unique. Variations in slate, wood, leather and other natural materials are expected and are not considered defects.Questions?If you have any concerns about your order, please get in touch. I will always do my best to resolve genuine issues fairly and promptly.

Last Updated: August 2026BROCK EDC is a small independent workshop. Every order is personally designed, crafted and quality checked by one maker.

Privacy Policy

Your PrivacyBROCK EDC respects your privacy and only collects the information needed to respond to enquiries, process orders and provide customer support.Information I May Collect
Your name
Email address
Telephone number
Delivery address
Project details
Images or artwork you choose to provide
How Your Information Is UsedYour information is only used to:Respond to your enquiry
Prepare quotations
Complete your order
Arrange delivery
Provide customer supportYour information will never be sold or shared with third parties for marketing purposes.Artwork & PhotographsAny images, logos or artwork you provide are used only for your commission unless you give permission for them to be used as examples of my work.Data StorageInformation is stored securely and only kept for as long as reasonably necessary to complete your order and meet legal or accounting requirements.ContactIf you have any questions about your personal information, please get in touch using the Contact page.

Last Updated: August 2026BROCK EDC is a small independent workshop. Every order is personally designed, crafted and quality checked by one maker.

Terms & Conditions

OrderingEvery BROCK EDC product is individually made to order unless otherwise stated.QuotationsAll quotations remain valid for 30 days unless otherwise agreed.Design ApprovalWhere a proof is provided, it is the customer's responsibility to check spelling, dates, measurements and artwork before approving production.PaymentPayment details will be supplied once your quotation has been agreed.Larger or bespoke commissions may require a deposit before production begins.MaterialsNatural materials such as slate, wood and leather vary in colour, grain and texture. These variations are a natural characteristic of the material and are not considered faults.Customer-Supplied ItemsItems supplied by customers will be handled with care. However, engraving always carries some risk and BROCK EDC cannot accept liability if a customer-supplied item is damaged due to unknown material properties or manufacturing defects.Intellectual PropertyCustomers must have permission to use any logos, photographs or artwork they provide. BROCK EDC will not knowingly reproduce copyrighted material without permission.

Last Updated: August 2026BROCK EDC is a small independent workshop. Every order is personally designed, crafted and quality checked by one maker.