Watch This Before You Buy A CNC Router In 2023

How much is a CNC machine for wood? What's the best CNC for Small Shops? If you're interested in getting a CNC machine, then this video is for you! It will save you SO, much time, money, and confusion. This way you can get to making cool cnc projects sooner and have more fun!

Links in the video:
Double-Sided Tape - Discontinued... Currently trying different options

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[jvin]

Instead of a laptop to feed code to the CNC machine, get a cube-style desktop computer like a Raspberry Pi or equivalent (many under $100) and that can be your CNC controller. Don't subject a $1, 000 laptop to a dusty shop environment. You can likely scrounge an old desktop monitor, keyboard, and even a computer from a garage sale that will work after installing Linux on it for better speed.

[Arckivio]

For work holding, I use strong masking tape on the bed & the underside of the work piece with superglue in between. I've got 1 inch & 3 inch wide Scotch, heat resistant tape that sticks really well to the bed & the 3mm to 18mm birch plywood I use. It doesn't take as mush super glue as you'd think. If I'm cutting small parts, I just use glue lines that are closer together so the part stays down. Not sure where I got this from as I've been doing it this way for years so it might work for others.

[theodoremisiewicz]

Great video Andy. I’m a year and a half into my cnc journey and you helped immensely when I began. I originally wanted a onefinity but the wait list was over 3 months so I went with the Shapeoko and have been very happy. Carbide create is not the best out there but it’s a good starting place, I used the free version for at least 9 months. It took about 5 months to actually break even and start making money with it and it was a very good decision. I agree that it’s a great place to start but you will eventually want to upgrade everything. At that point you’ll know what you want and where the shortcomings of your current system are.

[LeeJudge]

Shapeoko, is definitely a diy setup and maintenance machine. However, in my experience, the customer service is amazing. I asked about an issue I was having with my bit setter (months after purchasing) and they sent me a new sensor and wiring. I did have to fix it myself, but it wasn't too bad to change out.

[davidparnell]

I viewed several of this type of video and this one is by far the most practical and logical. The information density is high and the sourcing infomation is good. The thought and presentation here is as good as a professional trainer.

[bootstrappyworkshop]

And this is why I went from a Chinese import 3D printer kit, then built a CNC router from scratch running LinuxCNC using FreeCAD for my CAD/CAM software, and now am building a second much heavier cnc router along with other DIY CNC machines in the near future. I was looking at SendCutSend and realized that I can basically do everything they advertise, I just have to set up for it. I am definitely not limiting myself to wood products but instead am including plastics, metals, and even looking into molding carbon fiber. Once I get the new shop built a DIY plasma cutter for making outdoor steel signs is also a definite. Don't know if I'm going to build a powder coating oven or just send it to a local shop, it will depend on how big I can afford to make the new shop.

The catch is that this approach TAKES SO MUCH LONGER. You are paying using one currency or the other - if you BUY, you are paying in lots of money-units and little time. If you DIY you are paying in lots of time and some money-units. Spend wisely.

[Railroad_Talk]

Andy one thing I think you forgot to mention about holding, if you’re new and using screws making sure your tool path isn’t set to go over that screw. A quick way to break a bit. If your project is going to be 10 inches wide make sure your wood is bigger than your final project give yourself a few inches on each end to ensure your bits won’t make contact with the screws.

Solid advice Andy! Great videos as always. You helped with my learning curve tremendously and I have started to generate income on the side with my shapeoko 4XL. Thank you!

[WoodworkDesigns-bxkn]

I’m a woodworker, but wasn’t looking for a cnc, but my son recently gave me his old Bob’s cnc evo 4 to play with to see if I like using a cnc. I have absolutely no experience with cnc’s or g code software so thought I would start searching YouTube and came across your video. It appears Bob’s has downloads of their software for free, so I’ll try that first based on your recommendation of starting with the manufacturer software. I’ll check out your other videos as well! I also have the same HF vacuum system you use, but only used it a couple times. Not sure why, but I’ve been using a 2-stage shop vac system for years as they’ve served me well, although they aren’t great on planers and jointers as they create a lot of chips and sawdust fast. Anyway, if anyone buys the HF vacuum, you’ll need to remove the plastic blade protection screen as the wood chips will get clogged up fast on the screen and you won’t get any suction. Thanks for the video!

[homezero]

Andy, Lots of good information, great video as always.

However, the one thing you didn't cover is, what if you do not have the MONEY to buy a larger machine. I personally started with a Sainsmart Genmitzu 3018 for $200.00. This machine came with 10 engraving bits to get started. This is the most cost-effective way to get started in CNC. In my opinion. This also helps those that are not sure they would like this type of work. PLUS, a good starting point to make money. I did everything from engraving projects to relief carving with this little machine. It works just like a bigger machine, jobs just take longer and is limited on size, but a great place to start.

Also, YES, YES, YES, Shapeoko is a GREAT company. I purchased the Shapeoko PRO XXL 2 years back and received 100% great customer service, answering questions, replacing defective or missing parts. The forums offer extensive assistance with projects and offering ideas for projects. So yes, excellent company to begin a journey into woodworking.

[bendelliskave]

I started with a vevor 3018, added a 1/4 Hp hand router, used Easel to design and cut pieces, about to step up to large router bed. A large learning curve, but lots of fun, have made extra money.

[maxhurst]

Andy, just found your video by accident. Wow, thank you. At 77 YO, I'm closing down a business I've owned for 32 years and was looking for something to keep me busy and entertained during retirement. Woodworking was my choice and I have purchased all the basics, planer, jointer and such but wanted to have the ability to customize gifts for my family and friends. After some research I chose the basic Shapeoko 4 standard which I'm in the process of assembly, slowly lol. Your video helps give me confidence that I made the right choice. Having been in a small business all these years I know at my age there will be much frustration but I'm still looking forward to it. Have subscribed and look forward to following. Thank You.

[makebetterfurniture]

I always recommend cnc-curious people to get a 3d printer first :) Same mechanics, similar software and hardware, and super useful in any workshop.

[mrlt]

I work for an industrial machine tool company, and your first 2 tips I give to my customers. I hate trying to help people understand software I myself have never used. and my company makes no money from.

We do a training class before the equipment is actually installed. I can tell 100% who has touched the software in the time between training and start-up. They generally have quality questions day one.

[ClintonCaraway-CNC]

Six months ago I would have agreed with you totally. I have owned and upgraded two Shapeoko CNCs. Adding a HDZ, 80mm spindle mount, plus spindles to both. Don't get me wrong I enjoyed both machines but that was six months ago.
The best advice I can give EVERYONE is buy your second machine FIRST. It doesn't matter if it's a CNC, laser or 3D printer... buy the one you plan on upgrading to or watch YouTube and see what most people on there upgraded to.
Is it more expensive... yes but it's definitely cheaper than buying two or three before you get the one you want.
I own a Onefinity Elite CNC, Thunder Laser 35-100 and a Bambu Lab X1-Carbon 3D printer and these three are worth saving for.

[GreggVandenberg]

Andy I bought the Shapoeko 5 Pro with the upgraded spindle. I bought it during the Black Friday deal. It's a great machine and so complete. Also your videos are so helpful in my learning journey

[gwargolet]

Awsome video. Anyone looking to get a CNC should watch this video. Very thorough. I purchased a CNC machine two years ago and have numerous small projects since, but wish I'd seen this video first, would have definitely helped with the learning curve.

[hunterspalding]

Thank you for this. I'm trying to soak up as much as possible before making my purchase. I own two lasers and looking to add what they can't do.

[goforthbmerry]

local sawmills rock. I have several within 30 minutes and if I want to drool - I can drive about an hour to an entire warehouse of wood with all the exotics.

[paulcarlisle]

Nice overview. One thing you might want to add would be a quick discussion of stands. You need something to put your new router on - whether it's a clear bit of benchtop space or a dedicated table for larger machines. Especially for someone just starting out, some COTS solutions would be welcome.

[lesliefontenelle]

Are you a teacher or were you ever? This is an absolutely well put together and well delivered presentation.
Thanks for that. I learnt a lot. It was an eye opener for me and I could sense the honesty.