CNC Routing Training Videos

CNC routing is a great way to create highly detailed or repeatable work from wood and other materials. During CNC routing training, you will learn basic operational safety for CNC routing, what materials can be used, how to create or convert graphics for CNC routing, and how to bring your work to life with our state-of-the-art Shopbot 4’x8′ CNC router.

Maker Playground’s ShopBot PRS can be reserved by members once they are familiar with the software and machine setup. The Shopbot’s maximum job size is 96” wide (X), 48” high (Y), x 8” thick (Z).

Members who want to use the CNC machine must watch the video below to learn the basics of the ShopBot and the VCarve Pro design software:

• STEP 1: Create your Vectric account and download VCarve. Get started here. If you don’t have a Windows computer at home, you can use one of our laptops at Maker Playground. After checking in, ask a staff member for a laptop with VCarve, then proceed to the next step.

• STEP 2: Create your first VCarve file. Watch the training video here.
  • If you’d like to view written explanation of these steps, find instructions for setting up your VCarve file here.
  • See this guide for more information about CNC bits. It provides quick parameter settings for the CNC bits we have in the shop and additional information about bit parameters.

• STEP 3: Email your completed VCarve file and some dates and times you may be available for staff instruction on running your first project to makerplayground@fishersin.gov. Staff will schedule a time with you to review your file, answer any questions you have, and demonstrate setting up the ShopBot for your first cut. Preview the steps to set up the machine here.