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CNC Machine Ideas

webchirp

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Anyone have suggestions on a CNC machine to cut shapes? I’d rather sacrifice 3D details for speed. I’ve seen them as low as 200 on Amazon but I’m leery of getting a hunk of junk. I’d like to find a decent one for under 1000. Im taking out some funds to get my toy space back in order. Also looking at a 12x 24 she-shed to make a shop. I just can’t get productive in the garage with space issues and hubby always fussing about taking his space. This shed will be all mine! I’ll likely not open a store again because Dr. O’s office keeps me busy. Sorry my friends.
Ps recommendation for the space if you had the option?
 

April

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@Mizzely Isn't that the type of machine you were talking about getting?
 

Mizzely

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Yes, but I'm looking at nothing less than $2k. Lol.
 

Mizzely

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Biggest things you need to keep in mind;

- how tall of an item you want to be able to cut through? Your z axis needs to be able to accommodate both the bit and the wood and still have clearance

- what kind of router can it use?

- software. Does it come with software? Is there a monthly fee?

- Space. How wide of an item do you want to be able to cut? The bigger pieces the more table space you need

- dust removal system will be something you'll want to look into

I've been told to stay away from the X-Carve (inventables) one.



Honestly it's been a crazy rabbit hole and I still need to learn more to know what I need/want.
 

webchirp

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Biggest things you need to keep in mind;

- how tall of an item you want to be able to cut through? Your z axis needs to be able to accommodate both the bit and the wood and still have clearance

- what kind of router can it use?

- software. Does it come with software? Is there a monthly fee?

- Space. How wide of an item do you want to be able to cut? The bigger pieces the more table space you need

- dust removal system will be something you'll want to look into

I've been told to stay away from the X-Carve (inventables) one.
I do have a shop vac I use for wood cutting. I looked at the x-carve and thought it was a decent one but didn’t want to spend the $$. Glad I asked in case I did decide to spend 2500. Yikes!

I only want to do 5x7 or smaller.
 

Mizzely

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I do have a shop vac I use for wood cutting. I looked at the x-carve and thought it was a decent one but didn’t want to spend the $$. Glad I asked in case I did decide to spend 2500. Yikes!
It's not that it's bad exactly, just over priced and under powered.

For dust collection you just want to make sure you can set up the shop vac with something like a dust collection boot that will work with the CNC. Sawdust getting into the moving parts will increase wear and tear and reduce the lifespan of the machine.
 

webchirp

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I was actually going to ask you knowing you always research the heck out of things.
 

flyzipper

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No machine recommendation, but do you happen to have a local maker space?
The memberships at spaces in my area are quite reasonable and interacting with more experienced makers would be invaluable (for me, at least initially).
Bonus, no capital outlay until you know you really want to invest in your own CNC machine, and then you'll have a better idea what you need.
 

webchirp

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Oh I know I want a CNC machine. I have wanted one for years. I just am not certain what to purchase that would be fairly speedy for simple shapes. I did join Reddit and they mentioned making one. I’ll put hubby on that task. I don’t do hardware…more of a software gal.
 

flyzipper

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Oh I know I want a CNC machine. I have wanted one for years. I just am not certain what to purchase
Understood, but that's why I suggested the maker space... to help answer the, "what to purchase", bit.

Some hands-on and random conversation with other makers might make it easier to prioritize your must-haves versus nice to haves.

Who knows, you may also meet somebody who's there using the machines because their home machine isn't adequate for their project (but might be perfect for yours).

Good luck on the decision, I'll be curious to learn what your end up doing.
 

Mizzely

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Understood, but that's why I suggested the maker space... to help answer the, "what to purchase", bit.

Some hands-on and random conversation with other makers might make it easier to prioritize your must-haves versus nice to haves.

Who knows, you may also meet somebody who's there using the machines because their home machine isn't adequate for their project (but might be perfect for yours).

Good luck on the decision, I'll be curious to learn what your end up doing.
This is absolutely what I wish I had near me. I'm a hands on learner!
 
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