#46: Making a CNC Jigsaw Puzzle (Part 2 of 2 - Toolpaths)
Jul 01, 2021
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🧩 Continue your CNC puzzle-making journey! In this follow-up lesson, Kyle dives into the toolpath creation process for the individual puzzle pieces prepped last week. Learn how to optimize material usage and tool efficiency through intelligent nesting. Kyle covers critical considerations like tool diameter and clearance , emphasizing the importance of leaving adequate room between parts to prevent shifting during cutting. Discover how different nesting rotation options impact grain direction and surface finish, and how to account for hold-down methods like clamps. The lesson also demonstrates how to generate profile toolpaths for both scoring lines with a V-bit and cutting out the puzzle pieces with an end mill. Learn valuable tips for selecting vectors automatically , setting cut depths precisely , and utilizing ramps for smoother tool entry. Kyle also troubleshoots common issues like tool fitting in tight corners by examining the 2D toolpath preview in solid view. Additionally, the lesson provides practical advice on choosing appropriate MDF types to minimize fraying , and explores the benefits and limitations of using smaller end mills for puzzle cuts.
Links mentioned in this lesson:
- Puzzles for the Scroll Saw: 31 Projects for the Woodworker :
https://www.amazon.com/Puzzles-Scroll-Saw-Projects-Woodworker/dp/1565232749 - Amana Tool 46403-K SC Spektra Extreme Tool Life Coated Solid Carbide Spiral Plunge for Wood :
https://www.toolstoday.com/p-58474-solid-carbide-spiral-plunge-2-flute-down-cut-compression-router-bits.aspx - Amana Tool 46242 Solid Carbide Spiral Flute Plunge Router Bit :
https://www.toolstoday.com/p-56839-solid-carbide-spiral-flute-plunge-router-bit.aspx
Keywords for this lesson(helps with search):
vectric software, puzzle pieces, toolpath creation, nesting, tool diameter, clearance, material hold-down, grain direction, mirroring, profile toolpath, v-bit, end mill, cut depth, ramps, tabs, vector selection, automatic selection, 2d view, solid view, wireframe view, mdf quality, fraying, down cut bit, up cut bit, laser cutter
#toolpaths #beginner #intermediate #vectricfeatures #productivity #projectchallenge #giftidea #fun & games
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