Intro to CNC
Duration: 1.5 hours
Class Size: 3 people
Price: $55
Type: Skill Development
AGES: Motivated 12+
How do you use computer-controlled (“CNC”) tools? It may look like magic when the ShopBot, plasma cutter, Tormach, or other machine accurately cuts an intricate shape, but in fact we have some powerful software tools that let even beginners create fantastic projects.
This class is an overview of “CNC”–that is, computer controlled machines. You’ll learn what CAD means, the difference between 2D and 3D, and other concepts. We will do some very simple hands-on activities, including creating a drawing in a CAD program, using a CAM program to generate code to run on a CNC machine, and each person will send their job to a simple CNC machine and see it run!
If you have no CNC experience, this would be a great class to take before checkout classes for specific CNC machines.
There is no prerequisite for this class, but familiarity with using software on a computer will be needed–things like clicking with the mouse and so on. This class is appropriate for interested people ages 12 and up.
Notes and other handouts will be provided.
Be sure to check out our CAD/CAM Toolchain page (which we’ll explain in class) for a preview of the software paths you can take to go from idea, to design, to finished project.
Reviews on this class:
“Class was detailed, enjoyed the step by step instructions.”
“Very thorough walk-thru of the CAD/CAM toolchain. Loved the Etch-A-Sketch CNC - very creative & clear! Recommended for all. Maybe suggested as a first class.”