With this project, I was introduced to CNC machining and experienced more post-processing methods for wood. For this project, there were some issues with the post-processed as the pieces were very small, so it was difficult to paint neatly. Additionally, there were many issues with the CNC machine that caused damage to the pieces of wood.

Selecting My Noun

Using the Noun Project, I looked for tulips. Initially, I had planned to use a cow, but the CNC machine was not able to etch many pieces with the bits available, so I looked for a very simple piece that would be able to print with 1/16″ bit. I uploaded the picture into Easel and adjusted the dimensions such that it fit into a 3 x 3 box. I then drew a 3 x 3 box around it to cut out the square piece of wood that would house the flower. I adjusted the thickness to determine how deep I wanted to square and the flower to be cut. The final image in Easel is depicted below.

Modifying the Settings on Easel

In order to cut the piece using X-Carve, I needed to modify the bit, dimensions, and other aspects of the model. I selected the 1/8″ bit as that was sufficient to depict the detail of the tulip. I also measured the plank of wood used and put in the dimensions. I selected the wood used and used “Cut Outside Shape Path.” The final settings are shown below.

Using X-Carve to Cut My Piece

After following the directed steps on Easel to print, I was ready to use the X-Carve. I attempted to cut my piece on scrapwood for practice. However, towards the end of the completion of the piece, the cut square began to move with the bit and the wood was out of place, resulting in the machine being stuck on the wood and making a lot of noise. I stopped the cut and attempted to secure the pieces better going forward. Despire securing the wood multiple times, it was very random when the machine would produce a successful etch. At one point, the wood began to burn and the bit was ruined. The process of using the machine is shown in the images below.

Subtractive Post-Processing: Sanding

After using X-Carve and successfully producing two pieces of tulips, the image below indicated that subtractive post-processing was needed to apply paint and spray paint properly later. In order to sand of the excess wood, I first used a screw driver to remove wood in the engravings as the sandpaper was not small enough to fit there. I then used 120 grit sandpaper for 5 minutes, then 220 grit sandpaper for 5 minutes, and finally 420 grit sandpaper for 5 minutes on both pieces.

Additive Post-Processing: Spray Painting and Acrylic Painting

After sanding, I applied black wood stain in excess on both pieces once. I liked that the wood was still visible so I did not apply an additional layer. I then began to pain the inside of the flower pink. This was very difficult and messy as there were no small paint brushes at the OEDK. In order to accommodate for the imperfections, I used additional wood stain over any mistakes. I then applied the white paint but using a paint brush and spraying white spray paint on a paper towel. The final products are shown in the image below.

Cost Analysis

• Black wood stain = $2
• Pink acrylic paint = $2
• One can of black spray paint and white spray paint = $10
• 3 hour of labor ($20/hour) = $60

Communal supplies such as the scrap wood, machinery, paint brushes, and software were not included.

Total Cost: $74