06-05-2025 Q&A: Punch Game Dado Issue, Flat Pockets in Domes, and Sheet Setup Tips

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In this Q&A session, we helped troubleshoot alignment issues in a double-sided project (a punch game board), covered how to create flat-bottomed pockets on domed 3D models, and explained how to manage multi-sheet projects with different dimensions. We also discussed the Vectric 12.5 update, how to migrate tool databases, use guidelines in the 3D view, and traced clipart into usable vectors. Laser module software choices and using the Stream Deck for workflow efficiency also came up.

Key Tips Learned in this Q&A:

• Double-Sided Project Alignment: If cutouts aren't lining up on flip sides, it's likely a machine-side alignment issue. Using the dowel method for flipping can help ensure accurate alignment. Refer to Lesson 160 for proper setup.

• Flat Pockets in 3D Models: Use the "Merge Low" combine mode in Aspire or workarounds in VCarve to place flat pockets on domed clipart. Alternatively, 2D pockets without "Project onto 3D model" enabled can provide flat bottoms.

• Migrating Settings to 12.5: If you skipped migration during install, you can still migrate from older versions via Help > Migrate From Older Version.

• Tracing Clipart: Use the "Create vector boundary from component" tool to generate outlines around 3D models, and trace internal shapes manually or using bitmap tracing.

• Managing Multi-Sheet Projects: Right-click and edit sheet dimensions individually to set unique sizes. Avoid using the global dimension settings which apply to all sheets.

Questions Answered in this Q&A:

• 00:02:59 – How to fix dado misalignment in a double-sided punch game project

• 00:11:42 – Where is the text height box in VCarve 12.5 and how to recover fonts?

• 00:16:30 – How to migrate tools and settings after skipping the migration prompt

• 00:22:00 – How to add a flat-bottom pocket on top of a dome in VCarve or Aspire

• 00:33:18 – How to convert 3D clipart into usable vectors for toolpaths

• 00:35:47 – How to add guidelines in 3D view in Vectric 12.5

• 00:39:57 – How to set different dimensions for each sheet in a project

• 00:43:33 – Saving grouped toolpaths fails when sheet names include fractions

• 00:45:16 – Advantages and disadvantages of updating to Vectric 12.5

• 00:48:28 – Software recommendations for JTech 7W laser with Shapeoko and VCarve

• 00:53:28 – Where to find lesson/video for cutting a tapered bottom with a V-bit

• 00:54:50 – How to become a beta tester for Vectric

• 00:55:42 – Does purchasing the laser module affect future Vectric upgrade costs?

Keywords:

vectric 12.5, double-sided project, dado alignment, vcarve pro, aspire, flat pocket 3d, merging components, migrate settings, tool database, font list, sheet setup, tracing clipart, guidelines 3d view, laser module, jtech laser, shapeoko 5, stream deck, clipart to vector, molding toolpath