Woodcraft of Charlotte

CNC 101 - Design & Make your first Project

Part 1: Saturday, July 12, 9 AM - 1 PM

Part 2: Saturday, July 26, 9 AM - 1 PM

This Intro to CNC class will help you get started on your CNC journey. Perfect for anyone thinking about a CNC machine, trying to become comfortable with a CNC or already doing basic CNC but looking to improve your skills. This is a 2 part class, 2 separate sessions of 4 hours each. Part 1 includes discussion on how to select a CNC system as well as discussion on design software choices. Then moves into the steps needed to take a project from concept to completion. This includes a comprehensive overview of V-Carve software, how to create a design, generating tool paths and save the machine file. At the end of Part 1, student will have some homework and will work on their design to bring back for part 2. Part 2 will help students take their design from software to completed project. Some / all student projects will be chosen as examples and be run on the store CNC, time permitting. This section includes instructions on CNC controls, CNC safety, tips for running your first project, post processors, tooling, and machine configuration. Hands on training will include machine setup, program uploads, selecting cutting tools, setting speeds, and feed rates that relate to the best cutting practices. The class is hands-on so prepare to take notes. It is not required, but we recommend each student bring a laptop computer with a currently licensed demo version of Vetric V-Carve or Vetric V-Carve Pro. The demo version is a free download. We look forward to providing guidance into the world of CNC machining and arming you with the knowledge to complete your next CNC project with confidence. NOTE: If the class you are interested in is full or if the date does not work for you, please call our store, and add your information to the overflow list. We will contact you when the class is scheduled again.

Custom Knife Making

Saturday, July 26, 1 PM - 5 PM

Learn to make your own custom knife. Craft a handmade handle to fit a pre-made fixed blade, spear point, knife blank (item# 148362). Students will learn how to create a jig to secure the workpiece in order to cut, shape, glue and pin their custom handle to the knife blank. Once the handle is set, students will learn finishing techniques appropriate for protecting the knife handle. Tools used: bandsaw and belt/disc sander. If the class you are interested in is full or if that date does not work for you please do not hesitate to call our store and sign up for the “overflow” list. We will contact you when that class is scheduled again.

Turn A Lidded Box - Half Day

Saturday, August 9, 9 AM - 12:30 PM

Let’s get fancy and turn a lidded box. Students will begin with lathe safety, appropriate lathe speed, and proper turning techniques related to high-speed steel and carbide tools. A sharp tool is key to a good turning experience. The Wolverine sharpening system will be used to teach proper turning tool maintenance. Students will learn to mount the bowl blank in balance by using a lathe chuck and jamb chuck. Planning the piece, layout, turning, drilling and techniques for applying a finish will all be covered. Each student should go home with a beautiful, handmade, lidded box. If the class you are interested in is full or if that date does not work for you please do not hesitate to call our store and sign up for the "overflow" list. We will contact you when that class is scheduled again.