Thanks to all the folks who joined us for the CNC LIVE stream. If you missed it, no problem, you can watch it here. We talked about CNC machines in general and the jargon associated with them, different approaches for making signs, working with material besides wood on the CNC, and router bit selection. Lots of great info.
Thanks to our friends at Iconic CNC and Amana Tool for providing you with this free event.
CNC WORKSHOP
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Looking forward to seeing doing different projects and using equipment.
The CNC method is really interesting, but here’s a “political” comment/question: Is it really woodworking? Someone famous once commented, “You didn’t build that.” The CNC machine made it. You just programmed it. How much different is that from going to a CNC shop and having the sign made for you except that you happen to own your own machine? Make that sign by hand and I’ll say, “Wow.” Have the machine make it and, well, that’s nice.
great job love the introduction to cnc
I read and watch your web it is so informative
Very good
We purchased an Axiom for our school, where can I find some good tutorials/lesson plans for CNC work?
You can have a look at this https://www.wwgoa.com/class/benchtop-cnc-fundamentals/ and this https://www.wwgoa.com/videos/benchtop-cnc/ I also do CNC classes at my shop http://www.vondriskawoodworks.com
George can I laminate different species of boards in order to contrast my lettering by cutting through the top species to the species on the bottom?
Yep, great idea. I’ve done this a lot with veneer. Maple veneer, for instance, on a walnut board. Looks great when you cut through.
Are consumer grade CNC CAM packages smart enough to know to use a large bit for roughing out the design then switch to a finer (or progressively finer) bit?
I use VCarve Pro software. It specifically separates the roughing pass from the finish pass, and allows for the bit change in between.
Is there an advantage to a fluid cooled spindle and a regular router spindle?
Nothing wrong with fluid cooled, as long as you remember to turn on the pump. Air cooled, of course, that isn’t an issue.
Don’t forget upcut, downcut and compression bits.
great stuff
What CNC Machine would be good for a beginner?
Lots of good ones out there. Depends on your budget. I advise taking a class if you can, which should give you the opportunity to use a machine before purchasing.
I have seen you use 2 or 3 different ear protection device’s. Which do you feel is the best. I saw a short video clip of you using a spray to protect your table saw miter gauge, and rip fence. What is the product
I like ISOTunes Pro for hearing protection https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01NCOEFQT/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=vondriskawood-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01NCOEFQT&linkId=2c1e14376b4030c9df148b25a793a3ca and Bostik Glide Coat on machines https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ODZM7SG/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=vondriskawood-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00ODZM7SG&linkId=bd212344910cf0ab1cdea45df2764c5f
I have a question though, I have not tried it before but can you CNC wood that is glue together?
Yep, nothing wrong with a glue up.
How thin of wood can you use with a CNC?
I’ve cut 1/4″ stock plenty of times. You could go thinner.
Want to learn cnc.
I like to apply a finish like poly or shellac and then cut and then paint in the cuts. Acrylic paint wipes right off. Then I apply more finish.
That’s a great approach
How long does it take to make the signs shown?
About an hour of total machine time.
What is a good entry level cnc machine under 300. I really want one but can’t afford the heavy hitters for now
Sorry, I’m not aware of any machines under $300.
Where can I go to get training or walkthroughs to learn about the design software?
You can start here https://www.wwgoa.com/videos/benchtop-cnc/ and here https://www.wwgoa.com/class/benchtop-cnc-fundamentals/
Building one.
Good evening from Las Vegas!
Just interested
Looking forward to it.
thanks
Looking forward to learning more. I have an Axiom CNC per you recommendation and I love it. Thanks!
This is amazing. Can’t wait to see what they have