You, sir, are an absolute legend. I've spent 20+ hours over the past three days trying to learn how to use my 3018 and this 17 minute video just answered all the questions that other videos could not. Thanks so much for the content, looking forward to seeing more!
Thank you for not muting the machine actually working. You are the first UA-camr I have found that doesn't. It's actually quieter than I thought it would be.
3 days I have been looking at your videos. 3018 arrived today. Now down to business. Really enjoy your videos, No rush all explained but in a way you can take it in. Still a lot to learn but youve given me the hope to succeed. Thank you James. At 72 still willing to learn.
Thanks James,your video helped clear up several questions that I had for using easel with my 3018 machine. I am still impressed by how clear and direct your videos are, thank you!
I neglected to describe, that I am using easel for the design and for the cutting and carving, after the onset of the problem I exported the G code to UGS and when executed the same happened the bit went all the way through. I have watched many of you videos, they have efficiently and clearly thought me every thing I know about the 3018, many thanks for your generosity.
Looking forward to your video about setting up the laser. I was completely frustrated with my 3018 until I found your videos. These really make sense to me. The way you explain and demonstrate helped me figure out my machine. Thank you so much!
Thanks James for this awesome video. I bought a machine and spend hours and hours to find somebody (video) that can explain to me which program to use so I can get my designs to use it for GBRL. Thanks for that!!! Great help and very good explained!
@@JamesDeanDesigns May I ask you something..it seems that the 4 days free isn't available... I can^'t find it. It only shows me Beta testing and Educational account...have you got any idea?
@@bartelsphotography31 I haven't used Easel for a while but from what I gather they may have now stopped the 4 free days unfortunately. I would consider looking at Carbide Create instead. It's a slightly different way of working but its all free
Your videos are excellent. James. Thanks so much for spending the time to make them. Great clear explanations and camera work and you go at a sensible pace.
Thank you for making a tutorial that goes over all the basic starting stuff. I have been frozen not sure how to get started but I feel pretty confident now. I am off to break some bits, lol!
that was perfect i have this machine for two months and never got the Dremel to work till today thanks to you so much for your simple clear instructions on this part of the machine you are the best
I was new to using my 3018 or any of the different software. Explained so clearly and enjoyed learning from all the videos. Thanks very much James. John 👍
great vid, many thanks for doing these vids. I initially fell for the snapmaker but at the cost and despatch date issues i came across the 3018 but felt intimidated by it's setup/ software/ program - you've just explained it so clearly and "easely" - awesome stuff. keep it coming
Your videos helped a lot. Couple issues I have: 1-getting a z access error when I try to connect pc to cnc. 2- how would I go about cutting thicker pieces on my 3018? I was hoping to cut close to 2” thick pieces.
Hi James I love your channel. Learned a lot. I try do what you did follow all the steps. The roughing cut end up perfect. But the detailed come up really bad. It cut the leters in diagonal and so far any idea? I would like to share a picture here. If you like. Thanks
Really great videos. I have followed the videos and found them a great help. Hope you can help as I am new to cnc and have a purchased a 3018 pro. I purchased to learn on. I have used it for some small engraving in plastic and wood and it has worked fine using easel and UGS as you explained in your videos. I used the same file and tried to engrave brass. The machine starts and randomly stops and the spindle continues to spin. I press the stop button or pause button on the UGS software and the spindle keeps spinning. I have to close the UGS software and turn off the CNC to reset. UGS say there is a unexpected exception I have reduced the depth of cut to 0.2mm and the depth per pass is 0.1mm to not load the machine in Brass Can you help me with this problem. What am I doing wrong?
Hello James Your tutorials they are amazing. I fully understand all steps you do it. But I wander if you can help me to emboss a model or something. Thank you for your work and good luck !
Still loving these videos in 2023! Thanks for making these. Ive done a few test cuts and seem to have the machine figured out enough to play with. Im having a problem with this section though doing a rough cut then a finish cut. My problem is getting the spindle back to the home point. When the rough cut finishes the bit just sits there. When I hit the HOME button on the control I get an error (Sorry, didnt write down the code). Using the position numbers I can get it back manually close to the home position, but not exactly there. Any thoughts on what Im doing wrong?
bought this same cnc. also took me hours to get the axis' worked out and microstepping settings figures out. the sainsmart logo milled at 1cm length couldnt read it. so i did a plunge at x0 then a plunge at x100 measured it and figured out eventually what i was off. Once i got it working and had good setup code in the machine i set it aside. this week the upgrades come in such as the 500w spindle, tool height, offline module, drag chain and homing switches. A friend printed the new spindle mount for me. im holding off on the laser upgrade as mine came with the .5 watt and is pretty useless. i also found the original spindle motor junk as its not balanced well and vibrates like a dryer with a brick in it but really fast. this was intended to be a learner machine but i found it had trouble cutting the shallowest cuts in poplar. oh well im learning.
That is very true regarding the stock spindles. Ive actually gone through 4 or 5 in the space of a few months. The balance on them is terrible. I've got one that is really quiet but I'm also pretty sure its a lower RPM at the same time. Good luck with your upgrades 👍
I am thinking of getting a 3018 pro laser. This is a great video and I have subscribed to your channel and will be looking at them all. Thanks again other you tube videos made it seem a lot more complicated.
Hi James, I want to use the spoilboard surfacing files from Graham Bland but I do not get a link on your video. Could I ask for that link please. As a newcomer to CNC your videos have made things very simple - Thank you very much. Stuart Foster
James, you make it looks so easy. I'm having problems setting my Z code. I set the X . Y and Z at the bottom left corner at the top of the workpiece. I start the cut and the bit rases and moves to the start and starts cutting - But the bit is still way above the workpiece. The dot showing 0,0 is on the bottom on the workpiece. Am i supose to set the Z 0 at the bottom of the workpiece also? That would be difficult because the workpiece is in the way. I want the Z 0 on the top of the workpiece. What an I doing wrong? I'm using Easel and UGS. Thanks Bob.
Hi James, thank you for posting these videos, I'm a week into carving with a CNC 3018 Chinese clone. You're calm voice & level of detail are great, brilliant for a nervous newbie like me. I see in your comments that Easel have removed some functionality in their software. Can you explain what has changed and importantly ...what is missing please? Many thanks again - JC
Hello, I recently got my cnc 3018 pro machine and have watched all your videos. I am having a problem. Every image I put on lasergebl and try to burn it into the wood it comes out backwards. How do I fix this??? I have tried searching online for answers but all the solutions are for candle. Please help!!
Great videos James. I got a 3018 for xmas and been running through your videos to figure out how to use it. They have been very helpful. I have some questions you may be able to help with. I have the generic v bits you get with the machine but easle no longer supports them, have you found a way round this? Also the jobs i have done so far, the zero point dosnt seem to match up to the actual piece on the bed. If you take the corner in Easle as the home point and set this as zero on the actual work then it seems to be a bit off set for some reason compared to the visual disply in the design window? any ideas on what i may be doing wrong Many thanks and look forward to more videos
Great content, I'm looking to buy one of these machines supplied a laser module and the router. These are the kind of videos I'm looking for. Also, your production is very good!
@@JamesDeanDesigns Absolutely! Especially since you uploaded your own design and used two bits. Those are steps most other tutorials don't show. I've been looking at the whole topic for a few weeks and learned more in the time I watched your videos than the other times combined. You're off to a great start!
I bought the 3018 5 years ago and never had the chance to use it. Now i notice almost everybody is using the 3018 pro. Can i still catch up learning if i start now with the tutorials using 3018 pro?
Firstly thank you for your brillant videos. Every cut I make with my 3018 has rough edges, I have tried new cutting heads and checking for loose bolts on the machine, the work is secure. I'm only cutting 0.5mm into ply. Any suggestions or pointers appricatied.
Thanks. That was clear, concise, and understandable. (unfortunately, this kind of clarity is not frequently seen for the 3018). Keep up the good work. Subscribed.
Hi,I do enjoy your videos,you take the time,and make it clear to understand,I do have a problem with my machine,when I create a SVG file in carbide create and send it to candle software,it goes into hold position on the software and nothing happens,any suggestions.
Watching these is actually getting me somewhere so thank you! Just a bit confused as to how you separate one design in to two files to 1. Rough cut 2. Fine detail. I understand why it’s done but don’t know how you do it....
You dont do it as such, the software does it for you. So in this video the software works out what can be done with the rough cut, and any detail thats left it knows the smaller bit has to do it.
many thanks for such a prompt reply... best video's and instructions i've found so far and to get a reply makes it perfect! Thank you. What design software do you use/recommend?
Hey, when I try to engrave acrylic sheet. It doesn’t come out clean. Like the edges are rough and small but thread like acrylic coming out. What should I do? Thanks
Good afternoon.I just started using a generic (from Amazon) 3018 CNC. The first cost through metal work very well. The first engraving of letters also worked well. Suddenly when trying to engrave letters in a piece of metal the bit went all the way through the metal. I reviewed the setting for material thickness 0.6 mm, Depth 0.1 mm, Depth per pass 0.1 mm. I used the Z probe and check that its settings were correct. When carving starts the bit moves the correct place and goes all the wall through the material (0.6 mm) and through the particle board. I have checked and rechecked all the settings that I know, and I can not fix it, help please!, many thanks!!
Hi James!! Thanks for all you do for us beginners, I created my design just to start and exported it and when I send it to carve the CNC moves but the spindle won’t turn but the X and Y moves like it’s carving, Can you help me with that issue??
yes great video, however maybe you can tell me what I am doing wrong, i download G files open them them up in USG and the get it ready like you show but the spindle never turns on and it starts to run the program???? any help will be great
Make sure $32=0 in your GRBL settings. If that is all OK. Then as a test, type m3 S10000 into the console box a d hit enter. This should turn the spindle on. The m5 and enter to turn it off. Let me know how you get on
Great video. On a different video I used your box gcode and it worked great, spindle spining like it should. When I tried creating a text on Easle and running that gcode, for some reason my spindle doesn't spin. Any idea on what I might be doing wrong?
Hi James finally got all setup started a test in easel sent it to ugs set a start point then hit start and fab cnc going through the proses but the cnc router not cutting it’s still but cnc is moving can you advise
Hi David, just catching up on comments. When you say still not cutting do you mean the spindle is not spinning or its cutting above the material? By any chane are you on Facebook? if so I would suggest joining the Sainsmart group and posting the issue in there with perhaps some photos or videos. I will be able to help you better as I can see whats going on, plus there are lots of other knowledgeable users in that group
I can’t figure out what I’m doing so wrong 😢 I’ve followed the directions step by step and every time I put the sd card back into the off line controller It starts the design but then it stops spinning & says “alarm” at 2%
Hi,I managed to connect easel to my 3018 cnc pro, I've tried to design and cut a 34mm disk,the cnc starts to cut,but it doesn't cut the size in my design,the size is about 3mm diameter disk size,do you have any suggestions.
It's important not to go too slow though. You need proper chunk out. Slow cutting creates a lot of friction and friction results in heat that ruin router bits.
If they are V bits you can use a device to measure the angle with something like a protractor. Or put 3 together and judge the angle. If 3 together comes out at 90 degrees then they are 30 degree bits, if they come to less than 45 degrees then they will be 10 degree bits. If somewhere inbetween then they are 20 degree bits
When exporting the code from Easel, there is an option for whether the spindle is automatic or manual. You need to select automatic. Hopethat should help
Hi James, as a beginner I want to have a collection of different milling bits. From rough milling detailed milling. I have the cnc 3018 mill. Where is the best place to get them from. Cheers mate and great videos too. Very informative
Generally speaking amazon. I use the blue tipped ones from Sainsmart which you can get on amazonor directlyfrom them. They are a little more expensive but they seem to be pretty good and hold their sharp edge for longer. Just search 1/8th bits
Hi. A newbie with a really stupid question...sorry. Having watched your vids I downloaded UGS and all is fine other than I cant see how to get the spindle spinning / cutting. I am now using PicSvg to generate the svg files, then sending them into Easel, then when completed importing these to the machine and using the original Candle software for cutting as I know how to get the head to spin !! Any chance you can give me some advise please as this does mean a lot of tooing and froing between software etc. Said it was a stupid newbie question. Thanks Joe
We are all newbies at some point. So if you are using Easel, I think under device settings somewhere there is an option for the spindle and the choices are Manual or Automatic. If you set it to Automatic it will insert the correct piece of code to start and stop your spindle at the beginning and end of the job.
Hi James. As the newbie that I am you don't know how satisfying it is to get advise, however simple or silly that it may sound, and then to find that it works first go. I did what you suggested in Easle and hey presto the spindle works. Absolutley brilliant. Many thanks indeed and I will now be continuing with the next videos.
yeah I'm confused about this too because if your zero position is different for he rough and detail, then won't the print screw up? Awesome video though 👍
The zero point is the same for the entire piece. So when he loaded the other file into universal Gcode, the machine knew exactly where to go from the zero point to the point of plunge for the detailed part. Also he did not move the wood. All the Zero point is a point of reference for the dimensions of the entire image.
Hi James iv been watching your tutorials as I am a newbie, iv got the Cnc3- 3018pro, I'm all setup to go but when I register on easel and put in my machine details it asks what motion controller, rail size, lead screw and spindle, iv googled n U tube but cannot find these answers, please help x
Usually either your measurements are off, as in your designing in inches but out putting in millimeters. Or your stepper settings need to be adjusted. First simple test is just move all your axis one at a time by something like 100mm and actually measure the distance it travels with a ruler or something
Hi James, as per most that have commented, I am new to the CNC 3018 Pro and have set up as per your tutorials however, the Easel program is now not free and I would like your reccommendation on a Free full version program that I can also use offline as i will be doing some work without internet.
Easel is still free, they have just tried to make you think that it is not. As long as you do use any of the Pro features, it's still free. Alternative free software is Carbide Create or Fusion 360 (Fusion can be complex for a beginner and requires internet) if you're happy to pay then considering Carveco Maker. This may help ua-cam.com/video/EMI97Rcb0bQ/v-deo.html
Hi Just getting into this and I have setup UGS and have gone through the test file you provided the 50x50mm that all works great but i tried a simple design on easel it exports fine and loads into UGS and after I set the z height and start the job it all moves but the spindle doesn't spin. I thought I broke it but I tested your 50x50mm test job and that worked fine I'm really not sure why this happened, any help would be greatly appriciated
Hi James, Great video but I have a problem. Having downloaded UGS, I opened the bin folder click on the 64bit application only to be presented with an error sign that says cannot find platform folder? Any help would be appreciated. John.
Many thanks James. I love the friendly style of your videos. I’m just about to purchase a Yofuly 3018 Pro-Max, which has an updated spindle and your videos will be a great help. Just one point, Zee axis, rather than Zed axis? 😉
Thanks 👍 and I mean it is technically zed if you look it up but we'll agree both can be used 😆 i shouldn't really argue, Im born and raised in England but my English is terrible
@@JamesDeanDesigns Not at all James, I’m sure you English is far better than most. I live in Brighton and assume you come from somewhere near Birmingham due to your regional accent?
Hard wood is definitely better than soft wood (pine). Soft wood is fine for testing and playing but with pretty much any hardwood you will have much cleaner results
@@ianknight2053 good luck! Completely forgot to reply to you the other day. Usually when people try and correct what I words I use its because they are from the other side of the sea, I hadn't realised you were from the UK 😆 you'll be pleased to know I'm trying to say zee more in my latest video
@@JamesDeanDesigns Assembled the machine, which took a long time but I enjoyed the build. I followed your video and did a number of successful square test cuts. Easel seems to have changed slightly from your video. There don’t appear to be the free Pro days anymore, just for the first 30 days and then you have to pay. Your videos are a huge help, thank you. I would like to do some acrylic LED night lights if you fancy doing a video James?😉
You will only be able to use the non-pro features. You can still get quite a bit done with it but will not be able to do things like V carves. If you want some alternative software options I made this video ua-cam.com/video/EMI97Rcb0bQ/v-deo.html
Whilst the X and Y positions remain the same, the Z height changes whenever you put a different bit so you need to reset the Z position for best results
It treats each job separately. So it runs the first file and returns to the start, you change the bit, reset your Zero for the Z height, and then load in the next file
@@JamesDeanDesigns Thank you. As a retired CNC programmer within the aerospace industry let me tell you that your videos are first class for introducing people to CNC machining. Great job. Keep up the great work.
Hi mate I have decided to buy easel pro which I am very happy with and your tutorials have been a godsend but Im having the occasional problem of the program sticking in the same place, so two questions, do you have any idea what would be causing this, and is there a way in easel to force advance the cutting progress. Any help would be greatly accepted. Graeme
There is an option in Easel for spindle control, it might be on manual but it should be on automatic. Ive got a video on top 1 issues and the answers is covered in that. ua-cam.com/video/r-uLsMwOBfY/v-deo.html
Following your videos are sooooo much better than the manufacturer ones! Cheers. Got some teething probs running my first cut. Only doing a basic hexagon, 1mm into MDF but it's snapping the tip off my bits. Only got it on 0.5mm passes and lowered the spin to 450. Should I be running it faster on MDF as opposed to regular wood?
Great video James, Im a beginner and I want to know if you recommend another program to do the designs, and if you had made the video with another free software? Thanks I just build up the machine and I want to start using it, I believe is gonna be more easy, but I’ll keep trying. Thanks a lot
It depends on how complex you plan to go with your designs. For fairly basic stuff Easel and Carbide Create are free. For more complex stuff possibly try Carveco, it seems to be getting good feedback
Hi JD ! Great work with the 3018 ! I just got one myself, upgraded it with limit switches while assembling it. But now that I'm actually trying to make it work I couldn't find any of the options on Easel to download the G-code, seems that it is not free anymore, not even for days. Am I right ? If so, what are you using now? Btw, it does communicate perfectly with UGS and it's been calibrated already. Thanks !
@@JamesDeanDesigns Thanks for the quick reply. I'll appreciate if you can share the program you're using to create g-codes. I think Easel is very user friendly, but as usual, business first I guess. :D Do you also have a suggestion for the laser as well ? I haven't tried that one yet. :'(
@@MadDogPE Easel is really user friendly. I've actually moved over to Vectric software as I'm planning to get a bigger CNC anyway but it is more expensive. The other popular free software a lot of people use is Carbide Create. At first it doesn't seem as user friendly as Easel but its just a different way of working, in fact its a closer to the way more expensive software works
Hey James, great video. I have a quick question: my work area is 20x20x4 cm, and what I want to do is to cut a 1.5 cm deep, 14 cm diameter circle into it. Would I be able to do it with the 3018? Thanks a lot!
Hello James, My next question is about UGS… I put together my vector in Aspire and I’m at the save step. I would like to run my work in UGS, and I dont know what Post processing option should I choose in Aspire. Would you be able to help me out? Thanks!
Hey James. Thanks for the informative tutorial. Is there an option in Easel to set up depth of a pass? I have a 10mm pine wood I want to cut in certain shape, but I am afraid my 3018 will not be able to do it in a single pass. I'd like to do it in 5 passes of 2mm for example. Is there an option to do it in Easel?
Using the same process would you be able to put the downloaded gcode into an offline Controler, Jog the bit to the corner of the material and start the cut?
Great Video I think I have been using Easel wrong and not creating G-code on each project hence them being out of line on some things and have not export them to UGS. I will try that. Is there another simple program to generate designs that will cut in either Easel or UGS, Fusion 360 is too much and some programs will not save correctly and go to Easel. Thanks
Carbide create is another free basic piece of design software. It does work differently to Easel though but you can still export your code and run it through UGS
@@JamesDeanDesigns Watched you video on new 3018 motor, replaced mine. Had to tweek cutting speeds to get it to work full speed,$30==10000. Did some signs and holddowns and now it seems to want to slow down. Lots of hangups and stalls on the old motor, wonder if my board is bad . Thanks again it's a slow go so far.
James Dean Designs Thank you for your help. Your video tutorials are a must for anyone starting out on their CNC journey. The reason why the spindle wasn’t turning- the spindle setting was on manual.
hi james im on the easel web page ive setup the dimentions of the cut etc when it comes down to enter i t comes up i have to setup my machine details ive filled out the bits i know then its got motion controller,rail size ,lead screw and spindle i have the cnc3-3018pro version i think its the upgrade from your model thanks for great tutorials ade
I think the CNC3 is just a name, from what I can see the machine is exactly the same so no need to worry about that. I'm not at a PC at the minute to confirm but to be honest I don't advise anyone to try and run their machine through Easel, I tell people to just export the Gcode and run it through UGS or Candle. Easel has been known to regularly mess up when controlling 3018s for some reason. Does things like pluges the Z axis straight into the wood
@@JamesDeanDesigns I pushed something :) looks like free 30 days. No more free days. Shame. I'm spent three days now trying to sort out whats what at least your vids will get me started. Thanks.
Hi James, great video. My husband bought the 3018pro and fitted it together. But we don´t know how to go on. I installed the driver and the GBRL to my laptop. But we don´t know what else we need. By the way: we are German and we don´t find any German book to run the 3018 pro. Maybe you can help us?
Hi, I just bought one, I don't have this black dot and my machine is still drilling in the same place, imagine that I write "TEST", it will mill all the letters one above the other. Does someone have an idea please ? And it seems to be milling in "mirror mode", everything is reversed
If my machine was overlapping the design I'd try these things first. When you spin the drive shaft on the X-axis does it move the spindle? If it does then the next step is to hook the machine up to your computer and use the software to try and move the x-axis with the online controller.
Hi James! Great videos! Do you have an easy-to-use alternative for easel? It doesn't have to be free but I don't want to start a monthly subscription...What CAM software are you currently using? Thanks a lot.
I currently use Vectric Aspire. I got a second hand version off ebay. Carbide create pro seems to get a lot of mentions as does carveco but I havent used either
You, sir, are an absolute legend. I've spent 20+ hours over the past three days trying to learn how to use my 3018 and this 17 minute video just answered all the questions that other videos could not. Thanks so much for the content, looking forward to seeing more!
Glad it helped
@@JamesDeanDesignssir i need help witch software is best for connect to my printer
Thank you for not muting the machine actually working. You are the first UA-camr I have found that doesn't. It's actually quieter than I thought it would be.
Thanks. I dont mute it but I do lower the volume in the recording so its watchable. I think my machine runs at about 75db if that helps
3 days I have been looking at your videos. 3018 arrived today. Now down to business. Really enjoy your videos, No rush all explained but in a way you can take it in. Still a lot to learn but youve given me the hope to succeed. Thank you James. At 72 still willing to learn.
Thats nice to hear. Good luck with your machine. Remember there is a new version of this video 👍
Thanks James,your video helped clear up several questions that I had for using easel with my 3018 machine. I am still impressed by how clear and direct your videos are, thank you!
Thank you very much. Glad I could help 👍
I neglected to describe, that I am using easel for the design and for the cutting and carving, after the onset of the problem I exported the G code to UGS and when executed the same happened the bit went all the way through.
I have watched many of you videos, they have efficiently and clearly thought me every thing I know about the 3018, many thanks for your generosity.
Looking forward to your video about setting up the laser. I was completely frustrated with my 3018 until I found your videos. These really make sense to me. The way you explain and demonstrate helped me figure out my machine. Thank you so much!
Thanks James for this awesome video. I bought a machine and spend hours and hours to find somebody (video) that can explain to me which program to use so I can get my designs to use it for GBRL. Thanks for that!!! Great help and very good explained!
Glad I could help
@@JamesDeanDesigns May I ask you something..it seems that the 4 days free isn't available... I can^'t find it. It only shows me Beta testing and Educational account...have you got any idea?
@@bartelsphotography31 I haven't used Easel for a while but from what I gather they may have now stopped the 4 free days unfortunately. I would consider looking at Carbide Create instead. It's a slightly different way of working but its all free
@@JamesDeanDesigns ok, thanks I'll have a look at it!
Your videos are excellent. James. Thanks so much for spending the time to make them. Great clear explanations and camera work and you go at a sensible pace.
Thank you 🙏
Thank you for making a tutorial that goes over all the basic starting stuff. I have been frozen not sure how to get started but I feel pretty confident now. I am off to break some bits, lol!
that was perfect i have this machine for two months and never got the Dremel to work till today thanks to you so much for your simple clear instructions on this part of the machine
you are the best
I was new to using my 3018 or any of the different software. Explained so clearly and enjoyed learning from all the videos. Thanks very much James.
John 👍
Thank you very much
Just assembled mine, this was helpful to know what to expect
Glad it helped
James, this is "explained to perfection" case. Excellent tutorial, all aspects of it! You made it look so easy... :) Thank you for sharing.
Thank you very much 😊
great vid, many thanks for doing these vids. I initially fell for the snapmaker but at the cost and despatch date issues i came across the 3018 but felt intimidated by it's setup/ software/ program - you've just explained it so clearly and "easely" - awesome stuff. keep it coming
You are the best. I am so happy for these tutorials.
Hello James, I am new to cnc carving and the 3018 and you got what it needs! Quality explanations at its best! Greetings
Thank you very much
Your videos helped a lot. Couple issues I have: 1-getting a z access error when I try to connect pc to cnc. 2- how would I go about cutting thicker pieces on my 3018? I was hoping to cut close to 2” thick pieces.
Absolutely fantastic clear and concise instructions, very useful as a new cnc user.
Hi James I love your channel. Learned a lot. I try do what you did follow all the steps. The roughing cut end up perfect. But the detailed come up really bad. It cut the leters in diagonal and so far any idea? I would like to share a picture here. If you like.
Thanks
Hi. If you're on Facebook or Instagram, find me in there and share the pictures, I'll try to help 👍
Really great videos. I have followed the videos and found them a great help. Hope you can help as I am new to cnc and have a purchased a 3018 pro. I purchased to learn on. I have used it for some small engraving in plastic and wood and it has worked fine using easel and UGS as you explained in your videos.
I used the same file and tried to engrave brass. The machine starts and randomly stops and the spindle continues to spin. I press the stop button or pause button on the UGS software and the spindle keeps spinning. I have to close the UGS software and turn off the CNC to reset. UGS say there is a unexpected exception
I have reduced the depth of cut to 0.2mm and the depth per pass is 0.1mm to not load the machine in Brass
Can you help me with this problem. What am I doing wrong?
In most cases you can just output normal gcode (flat end mill) and still put a vcarve bit in your CNC.
Hello James
Your tutorials they are amazing. I fully understand all steps you do it.
But I wander if you can help me to emboss a model or something.
Thank you for your work and good luck !
Still loving these videos in 2023! Thanks for making these. Ive done a few test cuts and seem to have the machine figured out enough to play with. Im having a problem with this section though doing a rough cut then a finish cut. My problem is getting the spindle back to the home point. When the rough cut finishes the bit just sits there. When I hit the HOME button on the control I get an error (Sorry, didnt write down the code). Using the position numbers I can get it back manually close to the home position, but not exactly there. Any thoughts on what Im doing wrong?
bought this same cnc. also took me hours to get the axis' worked out and microstepping settings figures out. the sainsmart logo milled at 1cm length couldnt read it. so i did a plunge at x0 then a plunge at x100 measured it and figured out eventually what i was off. Once i got it working and had good setup code in the machine i set it aside. this week the upgrades come in such as the 500w spindle, tool height, offline module, drag chain and homing switches. A friend printed the new spindle mount for me. im holding off on the laser upgrade as mine came with the .5 watt and is pretty useless. i also found the original spindle motor junk as its not balanced well and vibrates like a dryer with a brick in it but really fast. this was intended to be a learner machine but i found it had trouble cutting the shallowest cuts in poplar. oh well im learning.
That is very true regarding the stock spindles. Ive actually gone through 4 or 5 in the space of a few months. The balance on them is terrible. I've got one that is really quiet but I'm also pretty sure its a lower RPM at the same time. Good luck with your upgrades 👍
These videos are so essential. Thank you so much for sharing.
Glad to help
at last i am looking forward to revisiting my 3018, thank you for putting this up,
atb,
cliff
I am thinking of getting a 3018 pro laser. This is a great video and I have subscribed to your channel and will be looking at them all. Thanks again other you tube videos made it seem a lot more complicated.
That's good to hear. Thank you 👍
***UPDATE ***
new version of this video can be found here ua-cam.com/video/EZEropgZ_FY/v-deo.html
Fantastic, thank you! I am wanting to cut linoleum could you recommend a fine blade for detail cuts please. I have a cnc 3018. Thanks!
Hi, Unfortunately I have never cut that before on this machine so I would not know what to recommend.
Hi James, I want to use the spoilboard surfacing files from Graham Bland but I do not get a link on your video. Could I ask for that link please. As a newcomer to CNC your videos have made things very simple - Thank you very much. Stuart Foster
Does the spindle have a flat edge? At high speeds it will vibrate a little? Not sure if I should get the 3018 or the PRO?
thank you so much really good demo. to the point with clear advice and no woffle lol
This has been a brilliant tuition, many thanks
Glad its helped 👍
Regarding 16:06 After changing the bit can I press "return to zero" instead of manually finding point 0 again?
Technically you can, however you have to be 100% sure your bit is exactly the same depth out of the collet otherwise you will get a step
@@JamesDeanDesigns I'm sorry I meant for the x/y axis, then use the z probe for z.
Thanks for the reply btw.
@@donochetti2177 yes, definitely 👍
@@JamesDeanDesigns Thanks I'll give it a go. Absolute legend for your videos cheers
James, you make it looks so easy. I'm having problems setting my Z code. I set the X . Y and Z at the bottom left corner at the top of the workpiece. I start the cut and the bit rases and moves to the start and starts cutting - But the bit is still way above the workpiece.
The dot showing 0,0 is on the bottom on the workpiece. Am i supose to set the Z 0 at the bottom of the workpiece also? That would be difficult because the workpiece is in the way. I want the Z 0 on the top of the workpiece. What an I doing wrong?
I'm using Easel and UGS.
Thanks Bob.
Hi James... is there a way with Inkscape Gcode to place my cutting tool on the inside line for my cnc cutter
Hi James, thank you for posting these videos, I'm a week into carving with a CNC 3018 Chinese clone. You're calm voice & level of detail are great, brilliant for a nervous newbie like me.
I see in your comments that Easel have removed some functionality in their software. Can you explain what has changed and importantly ...what is missing please?
Many thanks again - JC
Hello, I recently got my cnc 3018 pro machine and have watched all your videos. I am having a problem. Every image I put on lasergebl and try to burn it into the wood it comes out backwards. How do I fix this??? I have tried searching online for answers but all the solutions are for candle. Please help!!
Hi Dean, when running my 3018 pro, it cuts in an anticlockwise direction. Is this okay, if not, how to I change the direction of travel?
Great videos James. I got a 3018 for xmas and been running through your videos to figure out how to use it. They have been very helpful.
I have some questions you may be able to help with. I have the generic v bits you get with the machine but easle no longer supports them, have you found a way round this?
Also the jobs i have done so far, the zero point dosnt seem to match up to the actual piece on the bed. If you take the corner in Easle as the home point and set this as zero on the actual work then it seems to be a bit off set for some reason compared to the visual disply in the design window? any ideas on what i may be doing wrong
Many thanks and look forward to more videos
Great content, I'm looking to buy one of these machines supplied a laser module and the router. These are the kind of videos I'm looking for. Also, your production is very good!
Thank you for the kind words. I'm still new to making videos and CNC so that's really appreciated. Hope the videos help you
@@JamesDeanDesigns Absolutely! Especially since you uploaded your own design and used two bits. Those are steps most other tutorials don't show. I've been looking at the whole topic for a few weeks and learned more in the time I watched your videos than the other times combined. You're off to a great start!
Sir i have anycubic kobra 2 neo 3d printer sir i have tried to give g code but it's not showing
I bought the 3018 5 years ago and never had the chance to use it. Now i notice almost everybody is using the 3018 pro. Can i still catch up learning if i start now with the tutorials using 3018 pro?
Super useful, inspiring & empowering! Thanks for sharing!
When getting ready to cut the g code detail, did you have zero in the z axis again? Xy axis?
Firstly thank you for your brillant videos. Every cut I make with my 3018 has rough edges, I have tried new cutting heads and checking for loose bolts on the machine, the work is secure. I'm only cutting 0.5mm into ply. Any suggestions or pointers appricatied.
Fixed! The PSU was set to 12v rather than 24 so the spindle was rotating too slowly.
i like your video's and i can not wait for the carbide video. thank you again.
Thanks. That was clear, concise, and understandable. (unfortunately, this kind of clarity is not frequently seen for the 3018). Keep up the good work.
Subscribed.
Thats really appreciated. Thank you 😊
Thank you so much James! Your videos are so helpful!
Hi,I do enjoy your videos,you take the time,and make it clear to understand,I do have a problem with my machine,when I create a SVG file in carbide create and send it to candle software,it goes into hold position on the software and nothing happens,any suggestions.
Its just a small bit if code its inserting in case you want to change the bit. If you click to carry on it should be fine
Watching these is actually getting me somewhere so thank you! Just a bit confused as to how you separate one design in to two files to 1. Rough cut 2. Fine detail. I understand why it’s done but don’t know how you do it....
You dont do it as such, the software does it for you. So in this video the software works out what can be done with the rough cut, and any detail thats left it knows the smaller bit has to do it.
many thanks for such a prompt reply... best video's and instructions i've found so far and to get a reply makes it perfect! Thank you. What design software do you use/recommend?
Hey, when I try to engrave acrylic sheet. It doesn’t come out clean. Like the edges are rough and small but thread like acrylic coming out. What should I do? Thanks
What bit are you using? Also do you know whether you are using cast or extruded acrylic?
@@JamesDeanDesigns .1 mm 30 degrees v-bit and it’s cast acrylic.
Good afternoon.I just started using a generic (from Amazon) 3018 CNC. The first cost through metal work very well. The first engraving of letters also worked well. Suddenly when trying to engrave letters in a piece of metal the bit went all the way through the metal. I reviewed the setting for material thickness 0.6 mm, Depth 0.1 mm, Depth per pass 0.1 mm. I used the Z probe and check that its settings were correct. When carving starts the bit moves the correct place and goes all the wall through the material (0.6 mm) and through the particle board. I have checked and rechecked all the settings that I know, and I can not fix it, help please!, many thanks!!
Where exactly does the cutter bit set on o,o,, outer cutting edge of bit or center of bit on o,o
Hi James!! Thanks for all you do for us beginners, I created my design just to start and exported it and when I send it to carve the CNC moves but the spindle won’t turn but the X and Y moves like it’s carving, Can you help me with that issue??
Hi, More than likely it will be issue 1 in this video ua-cam.com/video/r-uLsMwOBfY/v-deo.html
yes great video, however maybe you can tell me what I am doing wrong, i download G files open them them up in USG and the get it ready like you show but the spindle never turns on and it starts to run the program???? any help will be great
Make sure $32=0 in your GRBL settings. If that is all OK. Then as a test, type m3 S10000 into the console box a d hit enter. This should turn the spindle on. The m5 and enter to turn it off. Let me know how you get on
@@JamesDeanDesigns worked great thank you
Great video. On a different video I used your box gcode and it worked great, spindle spining like it should. When I tried creating a text on Easle and running that gcode, for some reason my spindle doesn't spin. Any idea on what I might be doing wrong?
You have to go into Machine and setup I think. Under hardware there is an option saying spindle, make sure its on automatic and not manual
@@JamesDeanDesigns can't thank you enough, that did the trick. I'm now a subscriber!
@@elielikoo glad it helped 👍
Hi James finally got all setup started a test in easel sent it to ugs set a start point then hit start and fab cnc going through the proses but the cnc router not cutting it’s still but cnc is moving can you advise
Hi David, just catching up on comments. When you say still not cutting do you mean the spindle is not spinning or its cutting above the material? By any chane are you on Facebook? if so I would suggest joining the Sainsmart group and posting the issue in there with perhaps some photos or videos. I will be able to help you better as I can see whats going on, plus there are lots of other knowledgeable users in that group
I can’t figure out what I’m doing so wrong 😢 I’ve followed the directions step by step and every time I put the sd card back into the off line controller It starts the design but then it stops spinning & says “alarm” at 2%
You ideally need to know what alarm code. Do you have limit switches?
Hi,I managed to connect easel to my 3018 cnc pro, I've tried to design and cut a 34mm disk,the cnc starts to cut,but it doesn't cut the size in my design,the size is about 3mm diameter disk size,do you have any suggestions.
Check your $101 and 102 settings. They are usually either 800 or 1600, if its 800 you night need to make it 1600
i cant select 30 degree bit , its no there as option to select :(
It's important not to go too slow though. You need proper chunk out. Slow cutting creates a lot of friction and friction results in heat that ruin router bits.
That is very true.
how can you tell what your bits are if there not marked thanks for your great videos
If they are V bits you can use a device to measure the angle with something like a protractor. Or put 3 together and judge the angle. If 3 together comes out at 90 degrees then they are 30 degree bits, if they come to less than 45 degrees then they will be 10 degree bits. If somewhere inbetween then they are 20 degree bits
@@JamesDeanDesigns thanks finally got first cut going candle sucks ugs working good
I saw both your videos but when I send the gcode to the machine, the spindle is moving but the bit is not spinning, please help
When exporting the code from Easel, there is an option for whether the spindle is automatic or manual. You need to select automatic. Hopethat should help
@@JamesDeanDesigns thanks
excellent videos - thanks James
Glad they helped
Hi James, as a beginner I want to have a collection of different milling bits. From rough milling detailed milling. I have the cnc 3018 mill. Where is the best place to get them from. Cheers mate and great videos too. Very informative
Generally speaking amazon. I use the blue tipped ones from Sainsmart which you can get on amazonor directlyfrom them. They are a little more expensive but they seem to be pretty good and hold their sharp edge for longer. Just search 1/8th bits
Hi. A newbie with a really stupid question...sorry. Having watched your vids I downloaded UGS and all is fine other than I cant see how to get the spindle spinning / cutting. I am now using PicSvg to generate the svg files, then sending them into Easel, then when completed importing these to the machine and using the original Candle software for cutting as I know how to get the head to spin !! Any chance you can give me some advise please as this does mean a lot of tooing and froing between software etc. Said it was a stupid newbie question.
Thanks Joe
We are all newbies at some point. So if you are using Easel, I think under device settings somewhere there is an option for the spindle and the choices are Manual or Automatic. If you set it to Automatic it will insert the correct piece of code to start and stop your spindle at the beginning and end of the job.
Hi James. As the newbie that I am you don't know how satisfying it is to get advise, however simple or silly that it may sound, and then to find that it works first go. I did what you suggested in Easle and hey presto the spindle works. Absolutley brilliant. Many thanks indeed and I will now be continuing with the next videos.
@@joetornabene3581 Glad that solved it
How do you make sure the Z point stays in the same x,y when you change the bit?
yeah I'm confused about this too because if your zero position is different for he rough and detail, then won't the print screw up? Awesome video though 👍
The zero point is the same for the entire piece. So when he loaded the other file into universal Gcode, the machine knew exactly where to go from the zero point to the point of plunge for the detailed part. Also he did not move the wood. All the Zero point is a point of reference for the dimensions of the entire image.
Hi James iv been watching your tutorials as I am a newbie, iv got the Cnc3- 3018pro, I'm all setup to go but when I register on easel and put in my machine details it asks what motion controller, rail size, lead screw and spindle, iv googled n U tube but cannot find these answers, please help x
I am using easel, but anything I want to carve always comes out a lot smaller, my machine is a 3018 pro. cna you help me
Usually either your measurements are off, as in your designing in inches but out putting in millimeters. Or your stepper settings need to be adjusted. First simple test is just move all your axis one at a time by something like 100mm and actually measure the distance it travels with a ruler or something
Hi James, as per most that have commented, I am new to the CNC 3018 Pro and have set up as per your tutorials however, the Easel program is now not free and I would like your reccommendation on a Free full version program that I can also use offline as i will be doing some work without internet.
Easel is still free, they have just tried to make you think that it is not. As long as you do use any of the Pro features, it's still free. Alternative free software is Carbide Create or Fusion 360 (Fusion can be complex for a beginner and requires internet) if you're happy to pay then considering Carveco Maker. This may help ua-cam.com/video/EMI97Rcb0bQ/v-deo.html
Hi Just getting into this and I have setup UGS and have gone through the test file you provided the 50x50mm that all works great but i tried a simple design on easel it exports fine and loads into UGS and after I set the z height and start the job it all moves but the spindle doesn't spin. I thought I broke it but I tested your 50x50mm test job and that worked fine I'm really not sure why this happened, any help would be greatly appriciated
disregard it was set to manual lolz
Hi, Don't worry, its a really common thing when exporting from Easel. Check out issue 1 in this video ua-cam.com/video/r-uLsMwOBfY/v-deo.html&pp=sAQA
Hi James, Great video but I have a problem. Having downloaded UGS, I opened the bin folder click on the 64bit application only to be presented with an error sign that says cannot find platform folder? Any help would be appreciated. John.
For some reason the 64bit version doesnt always open even if you have a 64bit machine. If you open the 32bit version it should be fine.
@@JamesDeanDesigns Thank you.
Many thanks James. I love the friendly style of your videos. I’m just about to purchase a Yofuly 3018 Pro-Max, which has an updated spindle and your videos will be a great help. Just one point, Zee axis, rather than Zed axis? 😉
Thanks 👍 and I mean it is technically zed if you look it up but we'll agree both can be used 😆 i shouldn't really argue, Im born and raised in England but my English is terrible
@@JamesDeanDesigns Not at all James, I’m sure you English is far better than most. I live in Brighton and assume you come from somewhere near Birmingham due to your regional accent?
In wood like pine, do you think this machine could handle 1mm cuts with an 1/8th 4 flute HSS
With a standard spindle you still might struggle, but its also about the speed. So for example you can cut deeper but have to reduce the feed rate
What do you think is the best wood to use for clean routing please James? I’ve noticed people using pine have very ragged edged cuts.
Hard wood is definitely better than soft wood (pine). Soft wood is fine for testing and playing but with pretty much any hardwood you will have much cleaner results
@@JamesDeanDesigns Thank you. Building my machine tomorrow!
@@ianknight2053 good luck! Completely forgot to reply to you the other day. Usually when people try and correct what I words I use its because they are from the other side of the sea, I hadn't realised you were from the UK 😆 you'll be pleased to know I'm trying to say zee more in my latest video
@@JamesDeanDesigns Thank you James. I’ll be watching so don’t push it!😉
@@JamesDeanDesigns Assembled the machine, which took a long time but I enjoyed the build. I followed your video and did a number of successful square test cuts.
Easel seems to have changed slightly from your video. There don’t appear to be the free Pro days anymore, just for the first 30 days and then you have to pay. Your videos are a huge help, thank you. I would like to do some acrylic LED night lights if you fancy doing a video James?😉
Hello! After the trial period of Easel, i will be able to use it and save gcodes to send them in other control softwere?
You will only be able to use the non-pro features. You can still get quite a bit done with it but will not be able to do things like V carves.
If you want some alternative software options I made this video
ua-cam.com/video/EMI97Rcb0bQ/v-deo.html
why do you need to reset the z point? The program is cutting the same project. Shouldn't it have the same starting point?
Whilst the X and Y positions remain the same, the Z height changes whenever you put a different bit so you need to reset the Z position for best results
James - Does the machine pause itself in between tool changes or do you have to pause the machine manually?
It treats each job separately. So it runs the first file and returns to the start, you change the bit, reset your Zero for the Z height, and then load in the next file
@@JamesDeanDesigns Thank you. As a retired CNC programmer within the aerospace industry let me tell you that your videos are first class for introducing people to CNC machining. Great job. Keep up the great work.
Brilliant. Can you save the g code or do you have to use Easel each time? cheers.
Yes, they have changed things since I made this video. You have to setup a machine profile and then you have the option to download the Gcode
@@JamesDeanDesigns That's great and thankyou for the video, very well done.
Hi mate I have decided to buy easel pro which I am very happy with and your tutorials have been a godsend but Im having the occasional problem of the program sticking in the same place, so two questions, do you have any idea what would be causing this, and is there a way in easel to force advance the cutting progress. Any help would be greatly accepted. Graeme
When I set mine off to carve the spindle motor doesn’t start. What am I doing wrong
There is an option in Easel for spindle control, it might be on manual but it should be on automatic. Ive got a video on top 1 issues and the answers is covered in that. ua-cam.com/video/r-uLsMwOBfY/v-deo.html
@@JamesDeanDesigns thanks all sorted now. I’m new to all this but getting there slowly
James you used metric but does easel permit inches as well. Thanks
Yes. There is a little toggle button that switches between mm and inches
Following your videos are sooooo much better than the manufacturer ones! Cheers. Got some teething probs running my first cut. Only doing a basic hexagon, 1mm into MDF but it's snapping the tip off my bits. Only got it on 0.5mm passes and lowered the spin to 450. Should I be running it faster on MDF as opposed to regular wood?
Great video James, Im a beginner and I want to know if you recommend another program to do the designs, and if you had made the video with another free software? Thanks I just build up the machine and I want to start using it, I believe is gonna be more easy, but I’ll keep trying. Thanks a lot
It depends on how complex you plan to go with your designs. For fairly basic stuff Easel and Carbide Create are free. For more complex stuff possibly try Carveco, it seems to be getting good feedback
Hi JD ! Great work with the 3018 ! I just got one myself, upgraded it with limit switches while assembling it. But now that I'm actually trying to make it work I couldn't find any of the options on Easel to download the G-code, seems that it is not free anymore, not even for days. Am I right ? If so, what are you using now? Btw, it does communicate perfectly with UGS and it's been calibrated already. Thanks !
I moved away from Easel in the end as I found it had a few bugs, but I'll check later when I go out to the workshop 👍
@@JamesDeanDesigns Thanks for the quick reply. I'll appreciate if you can share the program you're using to create g-codes. I think Easel is very user friendly, but as usual, business first I guess. :D Do you also have a suggestion for the laser as well ? I haven't tried that one yet. :'(
@@MadDogPE Easel is really user friendly. I've actually moved over to Vectric software as I'm planning to get a bigger CNC anyway but it is more expensive. The other popular free software a lot of people use is Carbide Create. At first it doesn't seem as user friendly as Easel but its just a different way of working, in fact its a closer to the way more expensive software works
@@JamesDeanDesigns Great ! Thank you, I'll give it a try !!! Cheers !!!
Hey James, great video. I have a quick question: my work area is 20x20x4 cm, and what I want to do is to cut a 1.5 cm deep, 14 cm diameter circle into it. Would I be able to do it with the 3018?
Thanks a lot!
Yes, the cutting area of the 3018 is 30 x 18 x 4 so you could easily that
Hello James, My next question is about UGS… I put together my vector in Aspire and I’m at the save step. I would like to run my work in UGS, and I dont know what Post processing option should I choose in Aspire. Would you be able to help me out? Thanks!
Hey James. Thanks for the informative tutorial. Is there an option in Easel to set up depth of a pass? I have a 10mm pine wood I want to cut in certain shape, but I am afraid my 3018 will not be able to do it in a single pass. I'd like to do it in 5 passes of 2mm for example. Is there an option to do it in Easel?
Yes, in the top right there is the option to edit the speeds for the bits. One of the options will be the pass depths, you just set it in there
@@JamesDeanDesigns Thank You for sharing your know-how!
What if we don't have the Pro? Will it work the same way or are there some extra steps to take?
Should be the same 👍
Glad to hear it. Thanx@@JamesDeanDesigns
Using the same process would you be able to put the downloaded gcode into an offline Controler, Jog the bit to the corner of the material and start the cut?
In theory yes. I dont have an offline controller though so I havent been able to do any videos on it
Great Video I think I have been using Easel wrong and not creating G-code on each project hence them being out of line on some things and have not export them to UGS. I will try that. Is there another simple program to generate designs that will cut in either Easel or UGS, Fusion 360 is too much and some programs will not save correctly and go to Easel. Thanks
Carbide create is another free basic piece of design software. It does work differently to Easel though but you can still export your code and run it through UGS
@@JamesDeanDesigns Watched you video on new 3018 motor, replaced mine. Had to tweek cutting speeds to get it to work full speed,$30==10000. Did some signs and holddowns and now it seems to want to slow down. Lots of hangups and stalls on the old motor, wonder if my board is bad . Thanks again it's a slow go so far.
Hi what size / style, type of bits come with the 3018
Different ones depending on where you buy the machine from usually 20 or 30 degree v bits and 1/8th end mills
Thanks for this - very clear. I’m inspired to blow the dust off my 3018 & have another go!
Thats good to hear 👍
Great channel
But even though the spindle turns with the offline controller it doesn’t when connected to the laptop . It has in the past . HELP please
Do you fully disconnect your offline controller when you use a laptop?
James Dean Designs Yes I’ve noticed
Yes I’ve noticed there is no M3 code in the g-code file. How can I edit one in. You may already appreciate I am an absolute beginner thanks
@@russellmorris5324 to edit any gcode file you can open them up in something like notepad
James Dean Designs
Thank you for your help. Your video tutorials are a must for anyone starting out on their CNC journey. The reason why the spindle wasn’t turning- the spindle setting was on manual.
hi james im on the easel web page ive setup the dimentions of the cut etc when it comes down to enter i t comes up i have to setup my machine details ive filled out the bits i know then its got motion controller,rail size ,lead screw and spindle
i have the cnc3-3018pro version i think its the upgrade from your model
thanks for great tutorials
ade
I think the CNC3 is just a name, from what I can see the machine is exactly the same so no need to worry about that. I'm not at a PC at the minute to confirm but to be honest I don't advise anyone to try and run their machine through Easel, I tell people to just export the Gcode and run it through UGS or Candle. Easel has been known to regularly mess up when controlling 3018s for some reason. Does things like pluges the Z axis straight into the wood
Great vid thanks. i don't get "use a freevday" following your instructions or any other ways i've tried. Probably doing something wrong.
No, unfortunately they stopped the free days in Easel last year. I need to make a new video for it 😕
@@JamesDeanDesigns I pushed something :) looks like free 30 days. No more free days. Shame. I'm spent three days now trying to sort out whats what at least your vids will get me started. Thanks.
Hi James, great video. My husband bought the 3018pro and fitted it together. But we don´t know how to go on. I installed the driver and the GBRL to my laptop. But we don´t know what else we need. By the way: we are German and we don´t find any German book to run the 3018 pro. Maybe you can help us?
Hi, I just bought one, I don't have this black dot and my machine is still drilling in the same place, imagine that I write "TEST", it will mill all the letters one above the other. Does someone have an idea please ? And it seems to be milling in "mirror mode", everything is reversed
If my machine was overlapping the design I'd try these things first. When you spin the drive shaft on the X-axis does it move the spindle? If it does then the next step is to hook the machine up to your computer and use the software to try and move the x-axis with the online controller.
@@kersh8568 Yes the spindle moves. I don't know how but now it works perfectly. Thank you for answering me, it's very kind 👍👍
Can i ask you which drill you use when you cut a logo with cnc? Please answer
Its a 3.175mm flat end mill for the rough and a 20 degree v bit for the v carve
@@JamesDeanDesigns thanks :-)
Hi James! Great videos! Do you have an easy-to-use alternative for easel? It doesn't have to be free but I don't want to start a monthly subscription...What CAM software are you currently using? Thanks a lot.
I currently use Vectric Aspire. I got a second hand version off ebay. Carbide create pro seems to get a lot of mentions as does carveco but I havent used either