Skip to Main Content

CNC Guide

A guide to using the Shopbot CNC machine in MAKE ll at Library 21c

Contact the Makerspaces

Library 21c: 
    (719) 531-6333 x1549
    Library21cMake@ppld.org

East Library: 
    (719) 531-6333  x1372
    EastMake@ppld.org

Sand Creek Library: 
    (719) 531-6333 x7018
    SandCreekMake@ppld.org

Manitou Springs Library: 
    (719) 531-6333 x7004

Working With Text

See more: Working With Text

VCarve has a variety of useful tools for creating text and curving it along a path. While not as powerful as graphic design suites like Adobe Illustrator, VCarve's text functions are easy to use for creating stylized text.

Clearance Tools

See more: Clearance Tools

For pocket toolpaths, using multiple tools can help clear out large sections of the pocket quickly while using smaller, slower, tools to clear out only the areas that cannot be reach with a larger tool.

Editing Objects

See more: Editing Objects

While not as complex or as powerful as dedicated vector design software, VCarve contains many tools for creating and modifying basic shapes, text, and other other types of objects. Additionally, vectors created in other programs can be imported and adjusted in VCarve.

Node Editing

See more: Node Editing

Nodes (the individual vertices of an object) can be modified to alter a vector. This can be anything from minor adjustments in order to make lines parallel to radially altering and distorting letters.

Vectorizing Images

See more: Vectorizing Images

VCarve can convert standard image files (such as PNGs and JPGs) into vector objects that can then be turned into toolpaths. Black and white images work the best, but color images can also be used.

Sides, Sheets, Layers, and Groups

See more: Sides, Sheets, Layers, and Groups

VCarve has multiple ways of organizing your project, including two-sided boards, multiple boards, layers, and grouping objects. Each method has different benefits as well as levels of complexity.

Adding Your Own Bits

See more: Adding Your Own Bits

If you have your own bits that are compatible with a Shopbot CNC, you can add them to VCarve manually. You will need to have detailed information on the geometry of the bit(s) to be able to add them.