03-20-2025 Q&A: Badges, CNC Software Setup, and Engraving with a Diamond Drag Bit

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In this Q&A session, we discussed new community badges and leaderboard features, transitioning from Carbide Create to VCarve Pro for Shapeoko users, engraving brass plates using a diamond drag bit, and selecting a new CNC machine. We also covered creating a 4-degree slope in Aspire, setting up text for a 3D-style appearance, and best practices for toolpath setup on cutting boards.

Key Tips Learned in this Q&A:

• Switching from Carbide Create to VCarve Pro: Ensure you select the correct post-processor for Shapeoko when exporting toolpaths.
• Engraving Brass with a Diamond Drag Bit: A 90-degree diamond drag bit is recommended for most engraving, but a 120-degree bit may work better for soft metals.
• Creating a 4-Degree Slope in Aspire: The molding toolpath is the best method for creating precise slopes instead of 3D modeling.
• CNC Machine Selection: Digital Wood Carver and Onefinity were recommended as alternatives for those looking for a smaller CNC machine under $27,000.
• Juice Groove on Cutting Boards: Using a CNC provides better accuracy, but a jig and a handheld router can be a faster alternative.

Questions Answered in this Q&A:

• 00:05:28 – How do I switch from Carbide Create to VCarve Pro on Shapeoko?
• 00:09:19 – How do I restore missing tools in VCarve Pro 11.5?
• 00:10:44 – Where is the best class to explain the zero plane?
• 00:13:34 – What is the best method for engraving brass plates with a diamond drag bit?
• 00:19:31 – What are some alternative CNC machines to Legacy Explorer?
• 00:27:00 – How do I create a 4-degree slope for a 4-inch section of a 2-inch thick piece?
• 00:33:36 – What is the best way to create a 90-degree end to a sloped cut in Aspire?
• 00:39:32 – How do I set up text on a cube to look 3D but be a 2D carve?
• 00:46:50 – Do you have a lesson on feed and speeds for different bits?
• 00:47:22 – What is the best way to duplicate the clover and texture panel in a valance?
• 00:52:47 – What does a rotary 4th axis mean?
• 00:54:41 – Is there a more efficient way to adjust marble spacing on a board game design?
• 00:56:14 – How do I cut and finish parts using the pocket toolpath so I can use both sides of the wood?

Keywords:

cnc, vcarve pro, carbide create, shapeoko, diamond drag bit, brass engraving, 3d appearance, feed and speed, zero plane, molding toolpath, rotary 4th axis, cnc machine selection, cutting boards, toolpaths, clover texture, pocket toolpath