04-17-2025 Q&A: Molding Toolpaths, Rotary Workarounds, Bowl Design Checks, and SketchUp Integration

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This session focused on molding toolpath tricks, 4-sided carving techniques using rotary setups, and how to ensure proper Z-height clearance for bowl designs. We also reviewed strategies for working with Aspire 3D models, designing chip-carved clocks, modeling custom board game pieces, and integrating SketchUp with VCarve and Aspire.

Key Tips Learned in this Q&A:

• Molding Toolpath Tips: Use an open vector or inner offset to reverse cut direction and shift carving height inside or outside of frames.

• Rotary Axis Carving Workaround: 4-sided projects can be done on a rotary by manually rotating stock 90° between carves—ideal for limited Z-height machines.

• 3D Bowl Clearance Check: Use the “Create Cross Section” and modeling depth overlay tools to confirm wall thickness and tool clearance.

• SketchUp + Vectric: SketchUp (especially 2017 Free) is a great way to model furniture or rounded forms and export them into VCarve or Aspire—even for free!

• Chip Carving Projects: Chip-carved clocks and coasters can be made with creative use of VCarve Desktop or Pro—Tim’s geometric hot plate design was a hit.

Questions Answered in this Q&A:

• 00:14:32 – Can I carve a 4-sided table leg using a rotary? What are the limitations?

• 00:19:35 – How do I thicken the Z on a clipart picture frame to add a rabbet for glass?

• 00:24:06 – How can I reverse the molding cut so the outer edge is taller than the inner one?

• 00:28:05 – Can you review this double-sided bowl carving and point out problems?

• 00:31:50 – What’s the best way to check bowl wall thickness before cutting?

• 00:36:20 – How do 3D vs molding toolpaths compare in speed for bowl projects?

• 00:38:03 – How do I avoid router collet crashes on deep sidewalls?

• 00:47:44 – Can I model custom horse figurines in Aspire for a board game?

• 00:54:01 – Can I run Vectric and Lightburn on a Mac using Parallels?

• 00:55:30 – What is Vista Sculpt and how can I get a discount on it?

Keywords:

vectric, aspire, vcarve, molding toolpath, rotary cnc, four-sided carving, bowl project, 3d clearance check, sketchup, sketchup 2017, lightburn, mac compatibility, aspire modeling, chip carving, hot plate design, vista sculpt, board game modeling, picture frame rabbet, molding reversal, cnc tips