CNC Router Training

CNC routing is a great way to create detailed, repeatable projects from wood, plastics, and other machinable materials. During training, you’ll learn how to design projects in VCarve Pro and safely bring your ideas to life on our ShopBot CNC router. The ShopBot has a maximum cutting area of 96″ (X) × 48″ (Y) and can accommodate material up to 8″ thick (Z).

How Training Works

This training combines self-paced online preparation with one supervised, in-person CNC session. After completing both portions and receiving staff approval, members may reserve the ShopBot for independent use.

In this video: Basic information about the CNC, types of materials and toolpaths, and a general overview of project workflow

Not sure if a CNC router is the right tool?

Projects involving engraving or cutting material 1/4″ thick or less may be better suited for one of our laser engravers. If you’re unsure which machine is the best fit for your project, email makerplayground@fishersin.gov with a brief description. We’ll help you determine the right equipment and training.

What to Expect

Most members should plan for approximately one week to complete the online preparation, submit their project for review, schedule their supervised CNC session, and run their first project. Actual timing will depend on project readiness, staff availability, and scheduling.

To complete this training, you will need:

Access to a Windows computer and VCarve Pro Trial OR a Maker Playground laptop with VCarve Pro installed
A free Vectric account
A simple first project idea (see Step 3 for suggestions)
Material for your first project
Approximately 3-4 hours for the self-paced online preparation
Availability for one supervised, in-person session at Maker Playground

Step 1: Create Your Vectric Account and Install VCarve Pro

Watch the introductory video below, then create your free Vectric account and download VCarve Pro.

In this video: Navigation of the Vectric website, account management, navigating the VCarve workspace, setting up your file in VCarve, and how to find additional resources.

REGISTER VECTRIC ACCOUNT + DOWNLOAD VCARVE PRO TRIAL

If you don’t have access to a Windows computer at home, you’re welcome to use one of our laptops at Maker Playground. After checking in, simply ask a staff member for a laptop with VCarve installed.

Step 2: Learn the Basics of VCarve

Visit the VCarve tutorial page to become familiar with the software. Start with How to Use the Interface, then choose additional tutorials based on the tools and features you will need for your first project.

The videos below cover several common beginner tasks. You do not need to watch every video, and you may need tutorials that are not included here. Bookmark the tutorial page and return to it whenever you need help with a particular tool, design feature, or type of project.

Step 3: Create Your First Project

Create a simple project in VCarve. Your first project should use straightforward 2D vectors and basic toolpaths. Avoid two-sided machining, 3D carving, complex joinery, or projects requiring multiple setups. Staff may recommend simplifying a project before scheduling the supervised session.

Good first projects include:

A simple V-carved sign
A surfacing project
Profile cutting shapes

Choosing your CNC bits:

Before creating your toolpaths, review our CNC Bit Library Guide for information about the bits available at Maker Playground and their recommended starting parameters.

Before moving to Step 4, you should have:

The correct project dimensions and material thickness entered in project setup
Your project origins configured in project setup
A completed vector design
Basic toolpaths created for each machining operation
Your estimated cutting time noted from the Toolpaths Summary*
Your project saved as a VCarve (.crv) file**

Don’t worry if you don’t understand every setting yet. Your first supervised CNC session is designed to answer questions and help you safely prepare your project for machining.

*Estimating your project time: Click the Toolpaths Summary button, identified by the clock icon, to view your estimated cutting time. Plan for your supervised session to take approximately one hour longer than this estimate to allow for machine setup, the operating walkthrough, and questions.

*Saving your project: Save your project as a VCarve (.crv) file using File > Save. Do not export the ShopBot toolpaths yet. Staff will review your file before scheduling, and you will export the toolpaths during your supervised session. If you are using the trial version of VCarve, make sure you are logged in at the upper-right corner before saving your file.

Step 4: Schedule Your First CNC Session

Once you have completed the items in Step 3, email your VCarve (.crv) file to makerplayground@fishersin.gov.

In your email, include:

Your material type and dimensions
A few dates and times when you are available for the estimated session length
Any questions or settings you would like staff to review

A staff member will review your file. If changes are needed before training, we’ll reply with recommendations. Once your project is ready, we’ll schedule your supervised CNC session. During the session, we’ll answer questions, recommend any final adjustments, and walk you through running your first project, including:

Selecting and installing the correct cutting bit
Securing your material to the machine bed
Setting the X, Y, and Z zero positions
Operating the ShopBot safely

Before your appointment, you can preview the ShopBot setup process in this step-by-step document. At your appointment, remember to bring:

Your VCarve (.crv) file saved on a flashdrive
Material for your project

Training is the starting point. Your first supervised session will prepare you to operate the CNC safely, but proficiency comes from completing additional projects and working with different materials, bits, and toolpaths. Expect to still feel like a beginner while you build experience.

Maker Playground staff are available whenever the shop is open to answer questions and help troubleshoot issues as you work through your CNC projects. Our goal is to help you become increasingly confident and independent without leaving you on your own. See you in the shop!

More member resources:

Required Training

Member Handbook

Equipment Reservation