04-01-2025 Q&A: Spiral Ridge Challenges, Zero Plane Confusion, and Photo Carve Tips

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In this Q&A session, we tackled complex design challenges in Vectric software, including creating a spiral ridge inside a conical shape, understanding the zero plane, and troubleshooting Photo Carve settings for maple wood. We also discussed bit selection, landscape design software, and best practices for avoiding hidden nails in material.

Key Tips Learned in this Q&A:

• Spiral Ridge in a Cone: Creating a spiral ridge inside a conical shape in Vectric Pro is complex and may require alternative software like SketchUp or Fusion 360 for modeling before importing it into VCarve or Aspire.

• Zero Plane Clarification: The zero plane is essential for ensuring proper machining depth. When working on a two-sided piece, positioning the zero plane correctly helps define how deep cuts can go.

• Photo Carve Settings for Maple: Maple is a tricky wood for photo carving. Using lower depth cuts and testing various contrast settings can help refine the final image quality.

• BN vs. TBN Bits: Ball Nose (BN) bits are ideal for smoother curves, while Tapered Ball Nose (TBN) bits excel in detailed 3D work due to their fine tips and gradual taper.

• Project Bit Selection: A guide or reference PDF for bit selection can be helpful. Kyle has a resource listing which bits work best for different projects.

Questions Answered in this Q&A:

• 00:04:00 - How do I strategically place dowel alignment holes for a 31"x22" double-sided project on a 25"x48" CNC bed to allow for a left-to-right flip?
• 00:10:50 - Why did my Avalon Beach sign's border cut unevenly, and how do I attach files to Q&A posts?
• 00:16:29 - How do I create Gothic tracery patterns with chip carving-like triangular and rectangular elements in VCarve Pro?
• 00:20:39 - What are good sources for rotary projects?
• 00:36:53 - Given you don't have a rotary, how can I cut this STL file by importing and rotating the wood block for each side?
• 00:42:58 - Why are my profile cuts in VCarve Pro exceeding the specified dimensions of my aluminum plate design?
• 00:46:11 - Can VCarve Pro create a 3"x3"x3" mixing chamber with an internal cone, 2.5" top, 0.25" bottom, and an undercut spiral ridge?
• 00:50:07 - Is there a quick and easy way to explain zero plane? 
• 00:55:34 -  What are good settings for Maplewood?

Keywords:

spiral ridge, conical shape, vectric zero plane, photo carve maple, BN vs TBN bits, bit selection guide, landscape design software, two-sided machining