I have 51 years experience working with wood starting with 2x4 framing and progressing through cabinets and furniture. When considering the addition of a CNC router to my backyard shop, I found this video to be the perfect information needed for my decision. Thumbs up!
As a professional cnc programmer and operator with over 25 years experience I would highly recommend that beginners use a safety guard around their machines as if a bit snaps or shatters they can cause serious damage and injuries. When it comes to setting feed rates and rpms you need to find the sweet spot. That is when the rotation speed and feed rate are in harmonic balance and the tool will actually cut very quietly even at full length of cut
@@lucasmendoza I'm not there yet, just an operator, but you'll want to study G-Code primarily. Many tech schools/2-year colleges offer certifications and technical diplomas as well that can prepare you a lot better.
specially this goes for all laser aficionados. I have a few books 1) Ken Barat - Laser Safety_ Tools and Training, Second Edition-CRC Press (2014).pdf , 2) Understanding laser accidents-CRC Press (2019).pdf 3)(IOP Series in Coherent Sources and Applications) Ken Barat - Laser Safety_ Practical Knowledge and Solutions-IOP Publishing (2019).pdf
@Lucas Mendoza I ran a million dollar cnc punch for highway products. When I got the job I was going to school for welding technologies at a vocational school. That is a good place to start, but to be honest you don't need a degree most companies will train a good employee. Just start putting your name out there with companies and show interest.
Thank you for your input there bud, I've just started CNC machining a few months ago and have very basic autocad experience, I'm really interested in learning and want to invest in getting a desktop cnc
One thing I always appreciate is a person that is where I want to be, who is willing to show others below him on the ladder. Everybody has something to teach and everybody has something to learn. Much appreciated!
Because of videos like yours, my first build went together like I had been doing this all my life! I work in industry, so “perfect” startups of complex systems rarely happen, but my CNC mill just “fell together” and worked perfectly as I followed the steps. And that’s just the hardware, which is probably the easiest part, because then comes the software, for design, and then for communicating with the machine. Again, advice from channels like yours helped me navigate through “the weeds” without making costly mistakes, so I thought I would just say thanks!
I’m just about to start the fascinating world of Glowforge and CNC. You have made my job 1000% easier, you’re a natural in front of the camera and convey your information in a clear and concise way. You’re my number one source of information before anyone else, many thanks for you’re amazing videos.
Back in 2008, I designed and built a fairly large CNC machine. Once I got it working, I discovered that I had no idea how to use it! Not too long after, I figured it out, and became addicted to making all sorts of things with it. Needless to say, it has clocked up many thousands of hours of productive, and profitable, machine runtime :) .
Thanks for the breakdown. I went for the sub1000 price range, and got a small 3018 clone, and upgraded the spindle/controller to a variable rate with a wasteboard and clamp. Coming from 3D printing I already have some experience with these little quirky machines. Im a fledgling pocket-knife creator, and I wanted something to compliment the synthetic 3D extrusion with the ability to cut out small plastic/soft metal parts. Im already looking ahead to setting up a larger router system in my garage workshop where the bigger tools are. Ill use your resources as I progress in my journey. Cheers!
I'm putting together a workshop in my garage since my father passed and I am disabled; I always felt at home in shop classes and only used a laser cutter once but a CNC machine sounds perfect for the craft shows I want to do.
I recommend people download demos of the software and design a project from start to finish before spending any money. It's the software that can trip people up. Better to learn if you can tackle the learning curve before you spend $$$$$.
All great points to consider for a noob. I'd add that if you set your expectations accordingly you can also learn a lot from a $200 3018 along with $50 worth of bits. Sure, it's slow and what you can do with it is very limited but it's a great way to negotiate the learning curve and figure out if CNC is really something you want to pursue before dropping over 10x that amount on a more capable machine.
You are a gifted teacher. I am inspired by your journey from newbie to competent expert, as outlined in your videos. I like your solid realistic approach and the way you manage expectations. CAD/CAM is a fascinating area and I look forward to learning more from you. Thanks again.
A 4th one is a down cut bit. I highly recommend buying one. I have had no need for the replaceable ones. Then again I have only done small jobs on a printed CNC. I am thinking of committing money to a larger CNC like a Shapico or something at some point. I started on CNC when I was 14 as an apprentice Tool & Die Maker. Back then CNC was a new thing. Left the trade to work on computers and never looked back till I wanted a hobby build. Now I enjoy it.
Gdmorning Andy, I want to thank you for documenting your CNC journey. I've been watching your for a while and I'm impressed with how you have grown into your craft and your curiosity, I'm just beginning my journey and you have been a BIG HELP, so thankyou and Keep Paying It Forward!!!
Excellent summation. I always suggest that anyone uncertain about using a CNC machine first buys a 3D printer. This gives experience with design and gcode files etc, but doesn't have the complexity of tooling, hold-downs, cutting paths or collision issues. No infrastructure such as tables and extraction. Once that is all learned, the step to CNC is much gentler, and the 3D printer remains a useful resource. If it is all too much, the lost investment is much smaller.
3d printing doesn't really expose you to the intricacies of gcode as the additive process is quite benign and you don't have to worry about part clamping, datum (home coordinate) acquisition and tool length offsets, nor about breaking a tool. One thing about 3d printing that is unique is the hundred or so variables that you may have to modify in the print settings, many of which are not 'hard and fast' and typically require 'prove out' by running an actual part, which may take many hours. By comparison, running a cutter in a cnc requires very little input, once you get the gist of how much to push the tools. 3d printing is so slow, that you need an army of machines to try to make a living because they don't produce $100 an hour in marketable product. I'd like to get a hobby router though. I think the thing is capable of making money, at least to pay for itself. I think I'd get a kick out of running small diameter long tools at a ridiculous overhang compared to metal cutting.
I started with 3D printing and then bought a small 3018 CNC. As soon as I saw the thing work for the first time, I got obsessed with building a bigger CNC machine. But yes, 3D printing is a good start 👍🏼
I'm a retired carpenter and I decided to give electronics a go and bought a small cnc for trial circuit boards. If I'd seen this video about 2 years ago, I would have known what I was getting into.
I started cnc plasma, then put a router in my table and then went 3d printing. Printed three things that looked and felt cheep. I really never use it anymore just collects dust.
Thank you man, I was just talking to my partner about getting a cnc, and i completely understand what your saying, If I'm going to do it i don't want some simple, cheap machine, i want something that will make things that have quality and with a machine capable of doing the best job. A little more saving for me but i will take your advice!! Thanks
Great video. I have been using a WorkBee desktop cnc setup for 3 and a half years. UA-cam is such a gift for learning this stuff. I have been loving the journey so much I even got a 3D printer recently too!
Thank you for your very informational video. I was a machinist for 8 years and worked with CAD and then had to manually write each line of G code (that sucked). But I am chomping at the bit to get an all in one cnc router, plasma type table. I've been watching videos and yours explains best on what to expect when first starting this journey. Thank you!
Great vid, man. I'm only vaguely interested in CNC, but I wanted to give you kudos for taking the time to put together a no-nonsense, honest and helpful video.
Thanks for this. Been using a 3d printer for years and looking for a CNC router, and it's overwhelming the number of models that are out there. I see Yoududes making videos that seem like thinly veiled commercials, because when you read actual reviews, they're junk.
Best set of advice I have seen to date. This coming a background of woodworking, welding, computer programming, and 3D printing. (I was looking at reviews for a particular desktop CNC router when I came across this video.)
A lot of wisdom here. Newbies pay attention. I have taken the journey Andy speaks of over the last year or so as well. You are not going to be creating beautiful projects on your first cut. So much to learn before you begin producing sellable products. I started with a very cheap partially 3D Printed CNC. For me this CNC allowed me to make some very disastrous mistakes that didn't cost me much to fix. I broke something I just printed a new part. It had entirely too much give and flex for what I wanted to do but it got my head into cad, into cam and into the software that navigates the cnc and was very forgiving when I screwed up. Several crashes later and I had a good understanding of what NOT to do. Eventually I determined this cnc wasn't going to do what I needed it to do and committed to (what Andy said) around a $2500 budget and got what I would call a serious CNC. Taking what I learned from my mostly printed CNC I was able to then delve into my feeds and speeds and operating the machine in a manner it was intended. But I didn't just start right in making projects. I have been running test cuts in pine and hardwood to determine what is too fast of a feed and what is too slow of a speed for my router. I just about have every possible cut figured out and dialed in so as I begin making projects. So give yourself the time it takes to learn things and make your mistakes. Because you are going to make several. Like Andy said be willing to fail and you rewards will be great. Thanks for this video Andy. Wish you had made it a year ago.
Skreeeech! That is me slamming the brakes because I just started looking for my first CNC machine. You are a wealth of information Andy and I'm so glad I saw this video before spending $500.00 on my first machine. My jaw hit the floor and disappointment as well when you said 3k to start. I'm on a fixed income and 3k is a lot of money for me. I guess I'll be doing more side jobs and filling my piggy bank for that time when I will eventually be able to pull the trigger. By then though the starting cost will be up a few hundred more dollars. I am a new subscriber now so I'll be looking forward to seeing more of your stuff.
I'm so glad you found the information helpful! If you just want to start out learning with really no more expectations than that, you could get a less expensive machine with the plan of upgrading in the future. But for the most part you get what you pay for here.
I would respectfully disagree. To me, $2500 is a crazy amount to spend for a beginner as a hobby, but it really all depends on what it will be used for. I'd probably just try to make the case that you can put together your own machine for $1000, or you can purchase one you just assemble for $2500. It is well known that people get distracted trying to build a machine, or get lost in the weeds, but it is possible. I looked at cnc and decided I'd rather do it myself because then I'd learn and know how to fix the problems I create. If the goal is not to learn but to use it to make sellable products, then maybe you do want to skip the "waste nine months reading about stepper motors and servos" and just buy what other people sell prebuilt. Nothing wrong with that. But just as an example, you can purchase a ready built motion controller (hardware to run the motors) for $500 or you can control those same motors/servos/probes/switches/relays with an esp32 ($10) board using a program called fluidnc (or older esp32-grbl), which uploads gcode via wifi or bluetooth, with a cool touchscreen interface, etc.
I love videos like this. I love when you have more encouragement to these machines. I think a lot of people could buy these and the machine pay itself off in a project or two. Which then becomes a rabbit hole of all the things you can do. Much like a 3d printer. People need reminded of the capabilities, and also how to approach these machines, so they can be confident in making the first step. Great video.
You are spot on sir. Everyone thinks somehow everything is easy. But there is a lot of just grit and determination that make any shop task a finished task and sadly most folks do not possess the level of determination that you do. Learning a new program, learning a new machine, learning the abilities and limitations of said machine along with the process of troubleshooting issues can and is quite frustrating and overwhelming to most lay people. I found this out with basically the same machine except for cloth, IE. digital embroidery, the learning curve was vertical but my nature is to NEVER give up... lol. Thanks for the video it was spot on as I said and well done.
I’m a beginner. I was given a 3010 pro mini CNC. It’s been in a garage for awhile and the axis’s are squeaky. UA-cam vids. Recommended dry lube to lube the area that moves on the rails. A little bit of lube. I am looking at all the beginner videos to start on the spindle and the laser engraver. I only know the laser diode is 3 watt optical output. I will look for the spindle specs soon.
I just got a zenbot 4848 with everything included to run it for $1,800. clamps, table, software, motor, bits . Im going to build a kitchen and many many subwoofer boxes!!
I bought my Probotix CNC 5 years ago now and I use it most weekends. I use V-Carve Pro and find it so user friendly. I then bought a laser to compliment it and now making some money, not a lot but I love the CNC.....
Thanks for the video , I took on a challenge that I didn’t realize was so on going ,I was given a desktop CNC that needed a full retro fit . Learning about what controller would be easier and was in my budget , it’s moving on slowly as I learn more about CNC machines . Again thanks for the info it helps a lot.
Taking the time to get your machine square and level is the going to save you so much headache later on. What I like about the price point you picked is it allows most people to grow into their machines instead of quickly growing beyond them.
Oh I so much recognise myself when I was starting out with 3D Printing in how you are talking about CNC :) Thanks! It all makes total sense and I will most surely come back to watch again when have space prepared for CNC.
Totally off topic but the piece of wood on the wall by your left shoulder is that gumwood/satin walnut. I made a gun case from it when I was in high school and I love the look of it. Thanks for the info.
When I first started using a CNC milling machine, there was no such thing as CAD/CAM and the processes I used were later incorporated into that format. I am now a retired master machinist and look back on G-code programming with fond memories. By the way, the tools you refer to as tapered bit, I ground myself with relief.
Guys like you are the reason I’m such a great programmer, being taught to layout things on paper and program on the fly at the controller, new programmers can’t believe cam software can be wrong and it’s good to know how to fix it
I'm used to larger, corded routers ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxfQ5_mgwq6PcudJvAH25t-I4D-3cTPz4z so this was a different experience for me. Basically, this is an incredibly sweet machine, fits well in the hand, etc. It has slightly less power than I'm used to, but that's understandable. Maneuvering freehand takes some practice. These days, it's especially nice to be able to avoid power cords. This is above the level of a hobbyist but below a pro level.
I've got a millright mega V XL.... and I think I have pretty much everything in terms of bits, router (no speed control unfortunately) and the cnc is built, it's on a table, the only thing I can't seem to source is materials / wood. I'm trying to get my hands on anything my machine can handle, but namely hardwoods. I've also got an XTOOL P2 with all of the fixins (no fire suppression, yet) Same boat. I've bought some stuff directly from XTOOL but I'm looking for thicker wood sheets that won't rob me blind in starting cost.
That is funny, did see a lot of videos from you but not yet this. Hope to receive the last box of my cnc today. Most of your recommendations I actually did so far. So, hopefully on the right way. Huge self welded table, learned a lot on software, went to some markets, got all the necessary tools including the shop vac. Still have to figure out how to connect the vac to the cnc as the duct is too heacy to my opinion.
I never use an up-cut bit with wood because it tears out the top surface. Took me a while to learn that, but down-cut only for me (often sold as 'left handed'). Straight for plastics. Up-cut for metal. Down-cut helps to keep the work flat on the table and gives the cleanest top surface.
If you need clean surfaces then you can sandwich your workpiece between two pieces of lost material. Shallow pre-cuts will also work. Using these techniques and high quality tools and a high precision CNC router motor makes clean cuts rather easy to achieve in my experience. The straight bits do, indeed, work better for plastics.
Well done well said..... I'm considering making the jump into CNC as a carpenter/furniture builder so your videos are very helpful....3000$ is a commitment that i have to warrant and not just a whim though ...your videos are helping me to make the right decision...thanks
@@AndyBirdBuilds I do have a question: I see sheet goods are the norm...how are these machines with board material ? Like hard woods Cherry and Maple are so prone to burn as I know its a matter of trial and error grain and individual personality of the piece of wood all come into play, but whats your experience? Sharp mills and feed rate all factor in Im sure. Next question: I see X and Y 2 dimensional how about an archtop like a guitar for example will these machines do that? just a question ....curious Well thanks for your time John
Hi Andy, I am considering buying a CNC. I am wanting to produce copies of standard moldings that are minimally flexible. A lot of carpenters are looking for a small part of their project to be slightly rounded or out of square. Using all flexible moldings take most of their jobs. Not everyone is molding a Million dollar spec home, But everyone wants a good Job. I thought this would a good niche.
Thank you for an honest video! It sounds like the software have a lot of room for improvement. Comparing to a 3D printer once you have the 3D model, with minimal adjustments, the printer will just print it our for you, while a CNC sounds a lot more hands on. Although 3D printers are still years away for an ordinary person to use.
Awesome video Andy. I am hooked. I need to go into CNC for my woodwork. Too many customers ask CNC-related features on their wood projects. So $/€ 3000 for a good machine. I am in Europe. Any suggestions? I still need to look at the rest of your video so maybe this question is too soon. Keep em coming. Cheers. 👍🎈
I agree with all the points made here. I think there are a lot of gold that jump in head first thinking that it’s a simple Press of a button to carve something. It’s not rocket science, but It takes work.
Thank you Andy, it turned out to be also a motivational video! Just what we need when our CNC becomes capricious ! Thanks for the tips and hints and keep on the good work!
I’m 14 and don’t have 3000$ so I built my own and it’s pretty cool but the one thing I hate is that there is pretty much no z movement so I can only cut like inch this stuff, but I did it all in less that 600$ and Ive milled aluminum successfully, but definitely not steel
What do you think about learning on a smaller and cheaper machine first? All the principals are the same. It's just slower and only for smaller items. But it allows playing around and look how things work before investing more money and then the need to sell things (fast) to get that investment back.
I own a small workbee, and also a big industrial cnc. I would recommend that you change the 1/4 bit for 1/8. Most small routers have way too fast rpms, and cant sustain the required feed rate for the ideal chipload. You end up going through alot of 1/4 inch bits as they burn up fast.
I tend to alternate a fair bit between 6mm (1/4 - 6.35mm) and 3mm (1/8 - 3.125mm) bits. If I am cutting MDF I prefer the smaller cutters, but they are fairly easy to break if you get too excited. But they can be more useful when needing a tight corner due to the smaller radius. When I am working with ally I prefer to use a 6mm or bigger, unless again I need something with a tight radius. Majority of the work I do will be between 3-6mm.
On endmills/bits, I'd add 'multiple spiral upcut/downcut bits' for the probable reality that, as a beginner, you are going to break one/some pretty quickly.
My advice would be - (1) before you spend a penny, look at the available free CAD/CAM software - if you can't get the hang of the software there's no point exercising your credit card.(2) If you don't really know whether CNC is for you, buy the cheapest 3018 you can find (but consider what stuff you get with it, the offline controller may be useful, clamps are really frustrating to not have etc) and buy a selection of cheap bits (if they have a different shaft size you'll need extra collets to go match). You will learn loads putting it together and you'll learn more playing with it. Just remember the results will be limited - you only get 20x10cm of movement and the spindle is pretty weak. But if you do slow movements and take off thin layers you can easily cut wood and PBCs and if you're careful even metal. Then if you don't enjoy it, sell it / give it to a school or hack space. If you do enjoy it you are in a better position to understand what you want to upgrade to, and again pass the 3018 on to someone else, or strip it down to make your own from scratch.
This video did the opposite of scare me away, and now I really want a CNC machine. I'm a designer and a woodworker, so I use Illustrator, and am familiar with a few modeling programs, so CAD seems simple enough to learn. I use a Glowforge for laser cutting, and a CNC seems like the best step up from that, and much more useful.
Great video man! Thank you for taking the time to make it. I would love to get a CNC for my shop one day, but I know there is SO MUCH to learn. Keep up the GREAT work! 😀👍
There's a 4th bit that's always left off of people's "needed newbie bits" lists and that's a surfacing bit. Something in the 1 1/4 - 1 1/2" will cost you under $30 for a decent Amana carbide bit. The first thing you're going to do after setting up your machine is flatten your waste/spoilboard and a 1/4" end-mill is gonna take a llloooonnnngggg time 🙂 Then buy a 2nd 1/4" upcut and a 2nd 1/8" ball nose so you've got one in hand if you break one and you're not sitting on the pause button waiting on Amazon.
Good video! I'm searching high and low to add to my CNC knowledge. Just bought a Shark and it should be arriving in the next couple of days. Your suggestions are excellent.
I am a cabinet maker and make general millwork for my home remodels and building projects. I would like to make my own corbels, rope corner trim, and corner blocks for my custom cabinets. This stuff costs way too much money so I want a cnc to make my own. I need a cnc and software that is pre programmed to do this things I need in my shop or something that isn't as involved because I am doing only 3 or 4 specific items.
Thanks for the reply I've always called them endmills not realizing theres a specific name for them in wood. There's a whole section of word working tools I'll have to learn the terminology for. I've been cutting metal for 25 years and never heard it called that.
Good video. Other than the smaller table, what is the downside to buying a smaller CNC router, such as the "MYSWEETY 4540" that I see on Amazon? Thank you.
Thanks for watching and for your question! The main downsides of purchasing a smaller router like the MYSWEETY 4540 is the power of the spindle, the overall rigidity of the machine, and possibly low quality software.
This is a great video to help people understand what it really takes to own and use a CNC. It took me months to learn the CAD/CAM and feed/speed/toolpath aspects.
My husband is an engineer and has his own CNC machines for metal and fabrication. Would the endmills I need for crafting be different than what he uses. I will doing like wood work. Leather, paper etc.
My biggest issue with getting a wood carving CNC machine is where to put it. I've got so many tools in the shop already. I keep getting or wanting more and space is becoming scarce.
Thanks for creating this video. I'm a retired machinist who's been looking for a hobby to help make ends meet. I know about speeds & feeds for all the metals I worked with. It should be easy enough to make wood chips. My question is, due to the high speed of routers, are most cutting tools carbide, or is it a mix of high speed steel & carbide tools being used? I'll be watching the play list you just mentioned. The biggest learning curve I'm facing is learning CAD.
I had this idea when I saw a fella selling charcuterie boards and serving trays at a fall market. They were simple wood planks he had finished and attached handles to. I thought “man, if he had something with an engraving or inlay, I would buy one of these things.” Enter the mind swirling world of researching can I make a living with a CNC and if so which one? Brother, I feel like I’m talking with a friend of mine every video I watch. When it’s time to pull the trigger I’ll be reaching out for your recommendations.
so built a cnc router about 15 years ago. but the lack of affordable software at the time limited me. i sold it and have used a vinyl cutter and printer for many years. I know have no problem creating vector files. but what would you recommend? i’m not new to it, but also have no idea what is good, and what is garbage in the market. the two behind you seemed about the right size. so something in that size range. thanks for your time.
Awesome. Clearest and most easy to follow CNC guide i have seen. I am about ready to buy my first CNC. Every bit of experience is well received..👍🇬🇧🙋🏼♂️
I am heading toward my first CNC purchase. Thank you for this video. Would you recommend learning the software first so that CAD/CAM skills are proficient before buying the hardware? It seems to me if I do software first and learn it, then when the CNC arrives I will be able to produce with less likelihood of frustration. Am I wrong on this? Anyone else's thoughts? Thx!
Want more? Watch this playlist ua-cam.com/play/PLp-J1-xoURvX6p-5kVjLD4YChqFt1ywrs.html
I have 51 years experience working with wood starting with 2x4 framing and progressing through cabinets and furniture. When considering the addition of a CNC router to my backyard shop, I found this video to be the perfect information needed for my decision. Thumbs up!
As a professional cnc programmer and operator with over 25 years experience I would highly recommend that beginners use a safety guard around their machines as if a bit snaps or shatters they can cause serious damage and injuries. When it comes to setting feed rates and rpms you need to find the sweet spot. That is when the rotation speed and feed rate are in harmonic balance and the tool will actually cut very quietly even at full length of cut
What specific classes did you take to become a CNC programmer?
@@lucasmendoza I'm not there yet, just an operator, but you'll want to study G-Code primarily. Many tech schools/2-year colleges offer certifications and technical diplomas as well that can prepare you a lot better.
specially this goes for all laser aficionados. I have a few books 1) Ken Barat - Laser Safety_ Tools and Training, Second Edition-CRC Press (2014).pdf , 2) Understanding laser accidents-CRC Press (2019).pdf 3)(IOP Series in Coherent Sources and Applications) Ken Barat - Laser Safety_ Practical Knowledge and Solutions-IOP Publishing (2019).pdf
@Lucas Mendoza I ran a million dollar cnc punch for highway products. When I got the job I was going to school for welding technologies at a vocational school. That is a good place to start, but to be honest you don't need a degree most companies will train a good employee. Just start putting your name out there with companies and show interest.
Thank you for your input there bud, I've just started CNC machining a few months ago and have very basic autocad experience, I'm really interested in learning and want to invest in getting a desktop cnc
One thing I always appreciate is a person that is where I want to be, who is willing to show others below him on the ladder. Everybody has something to teach and everybody has something to learn. Much appreciated!
You bet!
Because of videos like yours, my first build went together like I had been doing this all my life! I work in industry, so “perfect” startups of complex systems rarely happen, but my CNC mill just “fell together” and worked perfectly as I followed the steps. And that’s just the hardware, which is probably the easiest part, because then comes the software, for design, and then for communicating with the machine. Again, advice from channels like yours helped me navigate through “the weeds” without making costly mistakes, so I thought I would just say thanks!
Great to hear! Thanks for sharing
I did literally every step of this process the hard way years ago.
Listen to this guy.
Hey I appreciate that. I'm right there with you
I’m just about to start the fascinating world of Glowforge and CNC. You have made my job 1000% easier, you’re a natural in front of the camera and convey your information in a clear and concise way. You’re my number one source of information before anyone else, many thanks for you’re amazing videos.
Thanks so much!! It really means a lot!
A very refreshing and honest attempt to make new users aware of what to expect, always remeber '' To be forewarned is to be forearmed ''.
That was my hope! 👍
Back in 2008, I designed and built a fairly large CNC machine.
Once I got it working, I discovered that I had no idea how to use it!
Not too long after, I figured it out, and became addicted to making all sorts of things with it.
Needless to say, it has clocked up many thousands of hours of productive, and profitable, machine runtime :) .
That's awesome!
As someone who has been thinking about purchasing a CNC machine for several years, I found this video very informative. Thank you.
Great!
Just make a cnc your self like I did
Thanks for the breakdown. I went for the sub1000 price range, and got a small 3018 clone, and upgraded the spindle/controller to a variable rate with a wasteboard and clamp. Coming from 3D printing I already have some experience with these little quirky machines. Im a fledgling pocket-knife creator, and I wanted something to compliment the synthetic 3D extrusion with the ability to cut out small plastic/soft metal parts. Im already looking ahead to setting up a larger router system in my garage workshop where the bigger tools are. Ill use your resources as I progress in my journey. Cheers!
I'm so glad I found your channel. Please keep pushing these videos, your tribe is for sure tuning in
Glad you found my channel too! Thank you! 👊
I'm putting together a workshop in my garage since my father passed and I am disabled; I always felt at home in shop classes and only used a laser cutter once but a CNC machine sounds perfect for the craft shows I want to do.
Dude al the info in This video wil letterly safe you a lot of Hessel. I have so much respect for this Guy
I appreciate that
I recommend people download demos of the software and design a project from start to finish before spending any money. It's the software that can trip people up. Better to learn if you can tackle the learning curve before you spend $$$$$.
Good tip!
All great points to consider for a noob. I'd add that if you set your expectations accordingly you can also learn a lot from a $200 3018 along with $50 worth of bits. Sure, it's slow and what you can do with it is very limited but it's a great way to negotiate the learning curve and figure out if CNC is really something you want to pursue before dropping over 10x that amount on a more capable machine.
I absolutely agree. Even for the fact that all things must be started from the bottom and not from the top, and this also concerns learning!
You are a gifted teacher. I am inspired by your journey from newbie to competent expert, as outlined in your videos. I like your solid realistic approach and the way you manage expectations. CAD/CAM is a fascinating area and I look forward to learning more from you. Thanks again.
Thank you so much for the kinds words!
A 4th one is a down cut bit. I highly recommend buying one. I have had no need for the replaceable ones. Then again I have only done small jobs on a printed CNC. I am thinking of committing money to a larger CNC like a Shapico or something at some point. I started on CNC when I was 14 as an apprentice Tool & Die Maker. Back then CNC was a new thing. Left the trade to work on computers and never looked back till I wanted a hobby build. Now I enjoy it.
Gdmorning Andy, I want to thank you for documenting your CNC journey. I've been watching your for a while and I'm impressed with how you have grown into your craft and your curiosity, I'm just beginning my journey and you have been a BIG HELP, so thankyou and Keep Paying It Forward!!!
Great to hear. Thanks for sharing, Carolyn!
Excellent summation. I always suggest that anyone uncertain about using a CNC machine first buys a 3D printer. This gives experience with design and gcode files etc, but doesn't have the complexity of tooling, hold-downs, cutting paths or collision issues. No infrastructure such as tables and extraction. Once that is all learned, the step to CNC is much gentler, and the 3D printer remains a useful resource. If it is all too much, the lost investment is much smaller.
Yeah I started with 3d, and moved into CNC on a cheap 3018. Whole nother world when dealing with toolpaths
3d printing doesn't really expose you to the intricacies of gcode as the additive process is quite benign and you don't have to worry about part clamping, datum (home coordinate) acquisition and tool length offsets, nor about breaking a tool. One thing about 3d printing that is unique is the hundred or so variables that you may have to modify in the print settings, many of which are not 'hard and fast' and typically require 'prove out' by running an actual part, which may take many hours. By comparison, running a cutter in a cnc requires very little input, once you get the gist of how much to push the tools.
3d printing is so slow, that you need an army of machines to try to make a living because they don't produce $100 an hour in marketable product.
I'd like to get a hobby router though. I think the thing is capable of making money, at least to pay for itself. I think I'd get a kick out of running small diameter long tools at a ridiculous overhang compared to metal cutting.
I started with 3D printing and then bought a small 3018 CNC.
As soon as I saw the thing work for the first time, I got obsessed with building a bigger CNC machine.
But yes, 3D printing is a good start 👍🏼
I'm a retired carpenter and I decided to give electronics a go and bought a small cnc for trial circuit boards. If I'd seen this video about 2 years ago, I would have known what I was getting into.
I started cnc plasma, then put a router in my table and then went 3d printing. Printed three things that looked and felt cheep. I really never use it anymore just collects dust.
Sometimes the truth is hard for us to hear. Your experience and honesty are greatly appreciated! Keep up the superb efforts.
Thank you Andy, that's why I built a machine with a small footprint and some automation. Enjoy!
Thank you man, I was just talking to my partner about getting a cnc, and i completely understand what your saying, If I'm going to do it i don't want some simple, cheap machine, i want something that will make things that have quality and with a machine capable of doing the best job. A little more saving for me but i will take your advice!! Thanks
No problem 👍
Great video. I have been using a WorkBee desktop cnc setup for 3 and a half years. UA-cam is such a gift for learning this stuff. I have been loving the journey so much I even got a 3D printer recently too!
Awesome to hear! Keep up the good work and having fun!
One of the best videos I've seen so far when I get into the next side hustle , clear and true .
Great!
Thank you for your very informational video. I was a machinist for 8 years and worked with CAD and then had to manually write each line of G code (that sucked). But I am chomping at the bit to get an all in one cnc router, plasma type table. I've been watching videos and yours explains best on what to expect when first starting this journey. Thank you!
Wow dude, that almost made me cry, you brought up so many factors on starting out with honesty! Wish we were neighbors, lol
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great vid, man. I'm only vaguely interested in CNC, but I wanted to give you kudos for taking the time to put together a no-nonsense, honest and helpful video.
I appreciate that! 🙏
Thanks for this. Been using a 3d printer for years and looking for a CNC router, and it's overwhelming the number of models that are out there. I see Yoududes making videos that seem like thinly veiled commercials, because when you read actual reviews, they're junk.
Glad I could help
Best set of advice I have seen to date. This coming a background of woodworking, welding, computer programming, and 3D printing. (I was looking at reviews for a particular desktop CNC router when I came across this video.)
Glad you think so! Hope it helps
Thanks thats one of the best advices.
A lot of wisdom here. Newbies pay attention. I have taken the journey Andy speaks of over the last year or so as well. You are not going to be creating beautiful projects on your first cut. So much to learn before you begin producing sellable products. I started with a very cheap partially 3D Printed CNC. For me this CNC allowed me to make some very disastrous mistakes that didn't cost me much to fix. I broke something I just printed a new part. It had entirely too much give and flex for what I wanted to do but it got my head into cad, into cam and into the software that navigates the cnc and was very forgiving when I screwed up. Several crashes later and I had a good understanding of what NOT to do. Eventually I determined this cnc wasn't going to do what I needed it to do and committed to (what Andy said) around a $2500 budget and got what I would call a serious CNC. Taking what I learned from my mostly printed CNC I was able to then delve into my feeds and speeds and operating the machine in a manner it was intended. But I didn't just start right in making projects. I have been running test cuts in pine and hardwood to determine what is too fast of a feed and what is too slow of a speed for my router. I just about have every possible cut figured out and dialed in so as I begin making projects. So give yourself the time it takes to learn things and make your mistakes. Because you are going to make several. Like Andy said be willing to fail and you rewards will be great. Thanks for this video Andy. Wish you had made it a year ago.
Thanks for sharing your experiences with CNC. Sorry I was a year late!
What Cnc did you buy
Skreeeech! That is me slamming the brakes because I just started looking for my first CNC machine. You are a wealth of information Andy and I'm so glad I saw this video before spending $500.00 on my first machine. My jaw hit the floor and disappointment as well when you said 3k to start. I'm on a fixed income and 3k is a lot of money for me. I guess I'll be doing more side jobs and filling my piggy bank for that time when I will eventually be able to pull the trigger. By then though the starting cost will be up a few hundred more dollars. I am a new subscriber now so I'll be looking forward to seeing more of your stuff.
I'm so glad you found the information helpful! If you just want to start out learning with really no more expectations than that, you could get a less expensive machine with the plan of upgrading in the future. But for the most part you get what you pay for here.
I would respectfully disagree. To me, $2500 is a crazy amount to spend for a beginner as a hobby, but it really all depends on what it will be used for. I'd probably just try to make the case that you can put together your own machine for $1000, or you can purchase one you just assemble for $2500. It is well known that people get distracted trying to build a machine, or get lost in the weeds, but it is possible. I looked at cnc and decided I'd rather do it myself because then I'd learn and know how to fix the problems I create. If the goal is not to learn but to use it to make sellable products, then maybe you do want to skip the "waste nine months reading about stepper motors and servos" and just buy what other people sell prebuilt. Nothing wrong with that. But just as an example, you can purchase a ready built motion controller (hardware to run the motors) for $500 or you can control those same motors/servos/probes/switches/relays with an esp32 ($10) board using a program called fluidnc (or older esp32-grbl), which uploads gcode via wifi or bluetooth, with a cool touchscreen interface, etc.
I love videos like this. I love when you have more encouragement to these machines. I think a lot of people could buy these and the machine pay itself off in a project or two. Which then becomes a rabbit hole of all the things you can do. Much like a 3d printer. People need reminded of the capabilities, and also how to approach these machines, so they can be confident in making the first step. Great video.
Awesome. Thanks!
You are spot on sir. Everyone thinks somehow everything is easy. But there is a lot of just grit and determination that make any shop task a finished task and sadly most folks do not possess the level of determination that you do. Learning a new program, learning a new machine, learning the abilities and limitations of said machine along with the process of troubleshooting issues can and is quite frustrating and overwhelming to most lay people. I found this out with basically the same machine except for cloth, IE. digital embroidery, the learning curve was vertical but my nature is to NEVER give up... lol.
Thanks for the video it was spot on as I said and well done.
Thanks for that
This is the most honest and helpful video that I've seen, so far, on UA-cam. Anybody even thinking about a CNC should watch this one.
I’m a beginner. I was given a 3010 pro mini CNC. It’s been in a garage for awhile and the axis’s are squeaky. UA-cam vids. Recommended dry lube to lube the area that moves on the rails. A little bit of lube. I am looking at all the beginner videos to start on the spindle and the laser engraver. I only know the laser diode is 3 watt optical output. I will look for the spindle specs soon.
It’s a 3018 pro Cnc.
I just got a zenbot 4848 with everything included to run it for $1,800. clamps, table, software, motor, bits . Im going to build a kitchen and many many subwoofer boxes!!
Awesome, clear video thanks alot!
Glad it helped!
I bought my Probotix CNC 5 years ago now and I use it most weekends. I use V-Carve Pro and find it so user friendly.
I then bought a laser to compliment it and now making some money, not a lot but I love the CNC.....
Cool!
Thank you for your wonderful series! God bless you all!
Thanks for the video , I took on a challenge that I didn’t realize was so on going ,I was given a desktop CNC that needed a full retro fit . Learning about what controller would be easier and was in my budget , it’s moving on slowly as I learn more about CNC machines . Again thanks for the info it helps a lot.
Thank you for this. Very well done...no fluff...extremely well presented and informative...thank you for taking the time to produce this.
Great to hear you found it helpful!
As a CNC machinist of 10+ years, this is great information!
Thanks! 👍
Taking the time to get your machine square and level is the going to save you so much headache later on. What I like about the price point you picked is it allows most people to grow into their machines instead of quickly growing beyond them.
Great points
Oh I so much recognise myself when I was starting out with 3D Printing in how you are talking about CNC :)
Thanks! It all makes total sense and I will most surely come back to watch again when have space prepared for CNC.
Right on!
Totally off topic but the piece of wood on the wall by your left shoulder is that gumwood/satin walnut. I made a gun case from it when I was in high school and I love the look of it. Thanks for the info.
When I first started using a CNC milling machine, there was no such thing as CAD/CAM and the processes I used were later incorporated into that format. I am now a retired master machinist and look back on G-code programming with fond memories. By the way, the tools you refer to as tapered bit, I ground myself with relief.
Guys like you are the reason I’m such a great programmer, being taught to layout things on paper and program on the fly at the controller, new programmers can’t believe cam software can be wrong and it’s good to know how to fix it
I'm used to larger, corded routers ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxfQ5_mgwq6PcudJvAH25t-I4D-3cTPz4z so this was a different experience for me. Basically, this is an incredibly sweet machine, fits well in the hand, etc. It has slightly less power than I'm used to, but that's understandable. Maneuvering freehand takes some practice. These days, it's especially nice to be able to avoid power cords. This is above the level of a hobbyist but below a pro level.
I think starting with a 3d printer is best. It's also useful for making adaptors and tools for other machines. They operate on similar principles too.
100% agree that that is the best gateway drug to home manufacturing. Laser is the next step. CNC is the crown jewel.
Great video, well done. took me a week to setup and build my machine. two days for mechanical build and three days to do electrics and software config
I've got a millright mega V XL.... and I think I have pretty much everything in terms of bits, router (no speed control unfortunately) and the cnc is built, it's on a table, the only thing I can't seem to source is materials / wood.
I'm trying to get my hands on anything my machine can handle, but namely hardwoods.
I've also got an XTOOL P2 with all of the fixins (no fire suppression, yet) Same boat. I've bought some stuff directly from XTOOL but I'm looking for thicker wood sheets that won't rob me blind in starting cost.
That is funny, did see a lot of videos from you but not yet this. Hope to receive the last box of my cnc today. Most of your recommendations I actually did so far. So, hopefully on the right way. Huge self welded table, learned a lot on software, went to some markets, got all the necessary tools including the shop vac. Still have to figure out how to connect the vac to the cnc as the duct is too heacy to my opinion.
I never use an up-cut bit with wood because it tears out the top surface. Took me a while to learn that, but down-cut only for me (often sold as 'left handed'). Straight for plastics. Up-cut for metal.
Down-cut helps to keep the work flat on the table and gives the cleanest top surface.
If you're cutting all the way through your material, an upcut will leave the cleanest bottom surface. The downcut will leave the worst.
If you need clean surfaces then you can sandwich your workpiece between two pieces of lost material. Shallow pre-cuts will also work. Using these techniques and high quality tools and a high precision CNC router motor makes clean cuts rather easy to achieve in my experience. The straight bits do, indeed, work better for plastics.
I'm envious of your cabinet enclosure. Another accessory you might have mentioned is ear protection. Mine machine is LOUD.
Adding an enclosure was a game changer for me
Great VIDEO, recommended bits 1/4 up cut, 60 degree v-bit, bowl and tray bit
Well done well said..... I'm considering making the jump into CNC as a carpenter/furniture builder so your videos are very helpful....3000$ is a commitment that i have to warrant and not just a whim though ...your videos are helping me to make the right decision...thanks
Great to hear! Let me know if you have any specific questions
@@AndyBirdBuilds I do have a question: I see sheet goods are the norm...how are these machines with board material ? Like hard woods Cherry and Maple are so prone to burn as I know its a matter of trial and error grain and individual personality of the piece of wood all come into play, but whats your experience? Sharp mills and feed rate all factor in Im sure.
Next question: I see X and Y 2 dimensional how about an archtop like a guitar for example will these machines do that? just a question ....curious
Well thanks for your time
John
I fucked up the same basic project for months but it helped me comprehend the whole process better ultimately.
We've all been there. Good for you for sticking with it. Most quit
Thank you for your honest opinion and expertise. I found this most helpful.
Glad it was helpful!
Dig it Brother... No nonsense... just good prose! Thank you Sir.
Clear, concise and well presented. Thank you for that.
Glad it was helpful!
Hi Andy, I am considering buying a CNC. I am wanting to produce copies of standard moldings that are minimally flexible. A lot of carpenters are looking for a small part of their project to be slightly rounded or out of square. Using all flexible moldings take most of their jobs. Not everyone is molding a Million dollar spec home, But everyone wants a good Job. I thought this would a good niche.
Go for it!
Thank you for an honest video! It sounds like the software have a lot of room for improvement. Comparing to a 3D printer once you have the 3D model, with minimal adjustments, the printer will just print it our for you, while a CNC sounds a lot more hands on. Although 3D printers are still years away for an ordinary person to use.
Awesome video Andy. I am hooked.
I need to go into CNC for my woodwork. Too many customers ask CNC-related features on their wood projects.
So $/€ 3000 for a good machine. I am in Europe. Any suggestions?
I still need to look at the rest of your video so maybe this question is too soon.
Keep em coming.
Cheers. 👍🎈
I agree with all the points made here. I think there are a lot of gold that jump in head first thinking that it’s a simple Press of a button to carve something.
It’s not rocket science, but It takes work.
I agree. Like anything it takes some effort.
Thank you Andy, it turned out to be also a motivational video! Just what we need when our CNC becomes capricious ! Thanks for the tips and hints and keep on the good work!
Glad it was helpful!
I’m 14 and don’t have 3000$ so I built my own and it’s pretty cool but the one thing I hate is that there is pretty much no z movement so I can only cut like inch this stuff, but I did it all in less that 600$ and Ive milled aluminum successfully, but definitely not steel
That's awesome!
What a fantastic and honest video, thank you so much for making it, there is a lot of wisdom in those words.
What do you think about learning on a smaller and cheaper machine first? All the principals are the same. It's just slower and only for smaller items. But it allows playing around and look how things work before investing more money and then the need to sell things (fast) to get that investment back.
I think that its possible to go this route. But its critical to have the correct expectations of these smaller machines
Looking for a 4x8 table to do 3/4" mdf speaker box designs. Love some Units to take a look at.
I'd look at Avid CNC
I own a small workbee, and also a big industrial cnc. I would recommend that you change the 1/4 bit for 1/8. Most small routers have way too fast rpms, and cant sustain the required feed rate for the ideal chipload. You end up going through alot of 1/4 inch bits as they burn up fast.
I tend to alternate a fair bit between 6mm (1/4 - 6.35mm) and 3mm (1/8 - 3.125mm) bits. If I am cutting MDF I prefer the smaller cutters, but they are fairly easy to break if you get too excited. But they can be more useful when needing a tight corner due to the smaller radius. When I am working with ally I prefer to use a 6mm or bigger, unless again I need something with a tight radius. Majority of the work I do will be between 3-6mm.
On endmills/bits, I'd add 'multiple spiral upcut/downcut bits' for the probable reality that, as a beginner, you are going to break one/some pretty quickly.
Not a bad idea 👍
My advice would be - (1) before you spend a penny, look at the available free CAD/CAM software - if you can't get the hang of the software there's no point exercising your credit card.(2) If you don't really know whether CNC is for you, buy the cheapest 3018 you can find (but consider what stuff you get with it, the offline controller may be useful, clamps are really frustrating to not have etc) and buy a selection of cheap bits (if they have a different shaft size you'll need extra collets to go match). You will learn loads putting it together and you'll learn more playing with it. Just remember the results will be limited - you only get 20x10cm of movement and the spindle is pretty weak. But if you do slow movements and take off thin layers you can easily cut wood and PBCs and if you're careful even metal. Then if you don't enjoy it, sell it / give it to a school or hack space. If you do enjoy it you are in a better position to understand what you want to upgrade to, and again pass the 3018 on to someone else, or strip it down to make your own from scratch.
This video did the opposite of scare me away, and now I really want a CNC machine. I'm a designer and a woodworker, so I use Illustrator, and am familiar with a few modeling programs, so CAD seems simple enough to learn. I use a Glowforge for laser cutting, and a CNC seems like the best step up from that, and much more useful.
Easily transferrable skills, you got this!
Great video man! Thank you for taking the time to make it. I would love to get a CNC for my shop one day, but I know there is SO MUCH to learn. Keep up the GREAT work! 😀👍
There's a 4th bit that's always left off of people's "needed newbie bits" lists and that's a surfacing bit. Something in the 1 1/4 - 1 1/2" will cost you under $30 for a decent Amana carbide bit. The first thing you're going to do after setting up your machine is flatten your waste/spoilboard and a 1/4" end-mill is gonna take a llloooonnnngggg time 🙂 Then buy a 2nd 1/4" upcut and a 2nd 1/8" ball nose so you've got one in hand if you break one and you're not sitting on the pause button waiting on Amazon.
This is a great point! Thanks for sharing
excellent and realistic view on getting ready to start your CNC work. Thanks!
You bet!
Mate thanks for this video... Opened my eyes to somethings I didn't even consider... ie. Dust
Awesome. Glad to help
An excellent aproach bro!
Glad you think so!
Good video! I'm searching high and low to add to my CNC knowledge. Just bought a Shark and it should be arriving in the next couple of days. Your suggestions are excellent.
Good luck! and enjoy!
I am a cabinet maker and make general millwork for my home remodels and building projects. I would like to make my own corbels, rope corner trim, and corner blocks for my custom cabinets. This stuff costs way too much money so I want a cnc to make my own. I need a cnc and software that is pre programmed to do this things I need in my shop or something that isn't as involved because I am doing only 3 or 4 specific items.
I had no problems, but then again, I am what you would call “a professional “.
It would be interesting if you went through the electronics that you use in this build
Not sure what an Upcut bit is or a bull and tray bit, 🤔 could you elaborate more please?
ua-cam.com/users/shortsF2InSD0eYFc?feature=share
Thanks for the reply I've always called them endmills not realizing theres a specific name for them in wood. There's a whole section of word working tools I'll have to learn the terminology for. I've been cutting metal for 25 years and never heard it called that.
Good video. Other than the smaller table, what is the downside to buying a smaller CNC router, such as the "MYSWEETY 4540" that I see on Amazon? Thank you.
Thanks for watching and for your question! The main downsides of purchasing a smaller router like the MYSWEETY 4540 is the power of the spindle, the overall rigidity of the machine, and possibly low quality software.
Good explanation for those getting interested.
Thanks Garrett. Hope it helps someone
Thanks Andy... Starting a MPCNC build and there were some great tips here..
Fantastic!
This was so realistic and helpful. Thank you!
You got it!
This is a great video to help people understand what it really takes to own and use a CNC. It took me months to learn the CAD/CAM and feed/speed/toolpath aspects.
It is a learning process. It took me about that long too. I'm still learning today
true. thank you
i headed thruw this presses in 2021 :D tokk me aboput 6months to get the workflow :)
You made it through the hardest part. Now you can have some fun!
My husband is an engineer and has his own CNC machines for metal and fabrication. Would the endmills I need for crafting be different than what he uses. I will doing like wood work. Leather, paper etc.
My biggest issue with getting a wood carving CNC machine is where to put it. I've got so many tools in the shop already. I keep getting or wanting more and space is becoming scarce.
Thanks for creating this video. I'm a retired machinist who's been looking for a hobby to help make ends meet. I know about speeds & feeds for all the metals I worked with. It should be easy enough to make wood chips. My question is, due to the high speed of routers, are most cutting tools carbide, or is it a mix of high speed steel & carbide tools being used? I'll be watching the play list you just mentioned. The biggest learning curve I'm facing is learning CAD.
Thanks for the video very informative. Where could I see a demonstration of this machine in Melbourne Australia thanks.
Very helpful! Thank you for your transparency and guidance.
Great!
I had this idea when I saw a fella selling charcuterie boards and serving trays at a fall market. They were simple wood planks he had finished and attached handles to. I thought “man, if he had something with an engraving or inlay, I would buy one of these things.”
Enter the mind swirling world of researching can I make a living with a CNC and if so which one?
Brother, I feel like I’m talking with a friend of mine every video I watch. When it’s time to pull the trigger I’ll be reaching out for your recommendations.
so built a cnc router about 15 years ago. but the lack of affordable software at the time limited me. i sold it and have used a vinyl cutter and printer for many years. I know have no problem creating vector files. but what would you recommend? i’m not new to it, but also have no idea what is good, and what is garbage in the market. the two behind you seemed about the right size. so something in that size range. thanks for your time.
Hi Andy, please let me know which Cad/cam I should learn before then invest money into the cnc machine?
Brani
Check out Carbide Create!
Awesome. Clearest and most easy to follow CNC guide i have seen. I am about ready to buy my first CNC. Every bit of experience is well received..👍🇬🇧🙋🏼♂️
Great to hear!
I am heading toward my first CNC purchase. Thank you for this video.
Would you recommend learning the software first so that CAD/CAM skills are proficient before buying the hardware? It seems to me if I do software first and learn it, then when the CNC arrives I will be able to produce with less likelihood of frustration. Am I wrong on this?
Anyone else's thoughts?
Thx!
Cool! I agree with your thoughts, mostly. Feeds and speeds are something that is learned best by doing though.
Really encouraging!👍