Often, when we live in a place, we tend not to collect souvenirs like when we travel for vacations. I designed a Houston souvenir inspired by the rodeo season for my CNC project. My design is cowboy boots.
Image 1: Sketch of the cowboy boots
After sketching the design, I uploaded the image and converted it into an SVG file to import into Carbide Create.
Image 2: Importing the converted SVG file into Carbide Create
I made specific decisions for the drawing in Carbide Create, including an offset of 0.20 inches for the main image. I outlined pockets with a depth of 0.10 inches for the central shape, the tops of the cowboy boots, and the detailed design on the cowboy boots.
Next, it was time to use Carbide Motion to export the design to print in the Nomad 3 CNC Mill. Initially, I planned to use a 1/16 end mill for cutting; however, I discovered that the bit was too short to complete the external cut of the entire shape. Therefore, I used the ⅛ end mill for my cuts and pockets. After producing two identical prints, I realized I could have switched the bit to the 1/16 for a more evident star design on the cowboy boots, but I didn’t mind the circular design that emerged instead of the ⅛ bit.
Image 3: Using the 1/16 bit
Image 4: The 2 identical cuts and the 1/16 partial cut
The design process took just 8 minutes to print, not including the set-up time – which took the longest to complete the calibration.
Image 5: The cut time for the design
(it updated to 8 minutes once it started)
I implemented three steps for post-processing: (1) sanding, (2) applying wood stain, and (3) using wipe-on poly. In the first step, I used 280 grit and 400 grit sandpapers.
Image 6: 280-grit sandpaper
Image 7: 400-grit sandpaper and Danish Oil
Image 8: Wipe-on Poly
I was curious to learn more about the wood post-processing phase, so I used Danish oil outside on the loading dock, which required about 48 hours to dry and be ready for handling.
Image 9: After using the Danish Oil
Lastly, I experimented with the wipe-on poly to observe how it enhances the shine of the wood pieces. This step requires 2-3 coats, 8-12 hours apart.
Image 10: The front of the Cowgirl boots
Image 11: The back of the Cowgirl boots
Each of the post-processing steps took less than 5 minutes. Although I preferred the natural wood color before applying Danish oil and Wipe-on poly, it was still good to understand the effects of these finishing techniques on the wood. Below is a picture of the clean station.
Image 12: After working — Clean station
