Intro to Wood CNC with Matt (2 Session Course)

CNC routers are a powerful tool in any modern maker’s arsenal. They can be used to cut, carve and shape many materials including wood, plastics, foam, cardboard, non-ferrous metals and many more. They are quite often able to produce parts more accurately and efficiently than traditional manual processes freeing up makers to design, assemble and create more. This course is specific to the Techno Titan CNC at MakerspaceCT, but many of the principles covered apply to CNC routing on any machine.

This course is taught in two parts:

• VCarve Pro software: design and toolpathing
• Running a job on the CNC:  bit selection & feeds and speeds

Schedule for Session 1:

• All students will be using provided PCs with VCarve Pro loaded on it as the instructor demonstrates in real time how to design in VCarve Pro
• We will discuss machine settings, where to set datum/zero points, and an overview of VCarve Pro's tools
• We will then learn how to make basic shapes
• Next will be learning the toolpath functions & their uses 

   Session 2: Running a job on the CNC

• We will go back to the CNC machine & each student will be shown how to save their toolpaths to a file that each will run on the CNC to make their own shapes out of plywood (welcome to bring your own FLAT wood)
• Each student will get comfortable on how to secure their work to workbed & zeroing each tool & material. Load file into pendant & run their program to make a sign. 

Instructor may adapt the class to the needs of the individuals based on experience levels.

All students are encouraged to stay the entire time as there will be many questions asked along the way. CNCs are big, powerful & intimidating and the best way to get comfortable using them is by understanding your files & first hand experience.  

BEFORE TAKING THE CLASS:

1. Create your user account for the VCarve Makerspace Edition. Visit our website to get started: https://makerspacect.com/vcarve/. Please read and follow instructions closely.
2. Complete the first two learning paths of Vectric's online Beginner VCarve Pro tutorials:

• Getting Started with Vectric Software
• Creating Vectors

Feel free to explore the learning paths beyond these two modules if you wish.

Mac Users Please note: VCarve is PC-compatible only. If you only have a Mac at home, you will not be able to install the software. Mac users should make plans ahead of time to come to the MakerspaceCT computer lab in advance of the course to complete the suggested learning paths above. If you aren't a member, please contact us to make arrangements to visit the computer lab.

Please Note: Additional training or membership-level access may be required to use the Titan. Membership is not required to take the class, but if you are not currently a member, you must purchase a membership to use the machine outside of class. Day passes are not available. You also must attend a separate training, the Wood Shop Safety Certification, to work in the shop.

All people are welcome in this class and an active effort will be made to be inclusive to all people. This class will not tolerate sexism, ableism, racism, homophobia, or transphobia. MakerspaceCT is for everyone.

(2 Sessions; Max. Class Size: 4)