This curriculum provides a comprehensive introduction to using Vcarve for tool pathing and an Xcarve for CNC. The hands-on practice will allow beginners to apply their knowledge and gain confidence in operating the equipment.
Duration: 3 hours
*The registration cutoff time for the class is 9 am on the day of the event.
Skills Learned:
- Basic understanding of CNC machining and toolpaths
- Familiarity with the Xcarve machine and its components
- Basic proficiency in VCarve software for creating toolpaths
- Ability to set up and run the Xcarve machine to cut a 2D object from a piece of material
Maker Skills/Resources Needed:
- Basic understanding of woodworking and/or metalworking tools and techniques
- Familiarity with digital design tools (e.g. Adobe Illustrator, Inkscape)
- Comfortable working with computers and software
Made Resource Cost for Class:
1 @ 12”x12”x3/4” plywood per maker
Tool/Workspace Etiquette:
- The CNC area is to be cleaned of dust and debris after use, bits put away and machine homed.
- Digging more than 1/16” into the spoil board is to be reported to a faculty member, frequent occurrence of this is prohibited and will be reviewed by a faculty member with an overview of the toolpaths before use is granted again.
- Broken bits from stock are to be reported to a faculty member and replaced by the member if the faculty member deems necessary after review.
- No machine settings are to be modified by any member.
- Machine must be monitored at all times during use.
- Empty out the vacuum after using the tool.
Class Breakdown:
- Introduction
- Designing a 2D Object
- Importing into VCarve
- Creating Toolpaths
- Setting Up the Xcarve
- Running the Xcarve
- Conclusion
Review of class goals and objectives
Q&A session