Intro to Wood CNC with Peter (2 Session Course)

This small group, hands on CNC course is ideal for beginners who want to learn how to take a digital file and turn it into a finished physical part on our CNC router. Over two sessions, students will learn the fundamentals of toolpath creation in V Carve, generate G code, and safely set up and run parts on the CNC machine.

Session 1
Students will learn how to design and prepare their first CNC project in V Carve, create toolpaths, post G code, and understand how the CNC interprets commands. The final portion of this session will be spent at the CNC machine, setting up stock, loading files, and running the first test parts.

Session 2
Students will individually fixture and run their own parts, getting real time machine experience with approximately 30 minutes of supervised cutting per student. If time allows, the group will begin a second project such as a small crate, service platter, or decorative flat pack build.

Outcome
Students will leave with a completed CNC machined piece, basic confidence in V Carve workflow, and practical experience operating the CNC router under supervision.

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.