Following Caroline’s inspiration of creating a gift for the upcoming holiday season, I settled on a coaster for my grandfather.
To start the CNC process, I got a SVG file off of Noun project and created the tool paths in Carbide 3D. I had to simplify the original SVG file somewhat because it contained details to precise for the 1/8th inch CNC bit. Then, to set up the Nomad 3 CNC, I added some sacrifice wood to the bottom, and used double sided tape to attach my working wood.
The CNC came out a bit rough, and the Nomad left some built in tabs on the bottom. After breaking off the tabs and sanding the piece, it was smoother and ready to paint.
I was hoping for a deeper velvety red to mimic orchestra seats, but I ended up with this much brighter red. I did 2 coats of the spray paint, and then a clear coat to seal it.
When applying the resin, I taped some of the edges as I had accidentally CNCd through the edge of the piece. Thus the tape was necessary to keep the resin in. Unfortunately, some of it dripped down the side, and had to be filed off.
I don’t love the colors of the final result but I am happy with the shape of the piece and the feel of the resin. It also probably could have been sanded more thoroughly to make it smoother.
Total Cost:
Labor 3 hours at $10/hour = $30
Maker Space (CNC machine, files & other tools) $50 per month = $1.62 per day
Epoxy Resin $30 for 72 ounces. I used 1/2 an ounce = $0.20
Wood 4 pieces of 4x6x1″ at $16.25. I used two pieces = $8.13
Spray paint = $5.86
Clear coat = $6.19
Total = $51.99
My cleaned workspace:
