People should understand when watching a video like this, that you can't order equipment like this and suddenly have a successful business. It's a productivity/capability tool with no equal. But building a business is the same as with any business. You have to build up demand for your services. Many well equipped business fail for not appreciating this simple idea.
The first half of the th-cam.com/users/postUgkx3ICSK6nSknaL_45CU2NmFSoXjarGMDiJ book is everything about wood: types, tools, finishes, setting up shop etc. The second half is all about doing projects for inside and outside of the home. The color pictures are helpful. After reading a dozen of these types of books, this is probably the best overall (layout, color photos, plans). Only detraction is that many of the projects use a table saw/router/planer, which are usually expensive and take up space, so the plans are less friendly to newcomers and the budget conscious. But I know I can use a drill, circular saw or a jigsaw to make the projects.
Goliath springs to mind. Second time viewer and now new follower. Loved woodworking my entire life but have nowhere to work now that I'm retired. I love watching younger folks succeed in these times.
$7.1K + freight if anyone is wondering. Don't expect anything less than $3-4K if you're a DIY. The beefy gantry, LM guides, and electronics account for much of the cost, and they're not cheap. I'd use SBR16 to cut down the cost and still be in the $1.5K-2K range for a 4x8 build. The easiest way to level the cutting bed is to run passes through a sacrificial HDF/MDF base. My pride as a mechanical/electrical/automation CSE in the semiconductor industry doesn't allow me to take that shortcut because the success of a multi-million dollar installation starts with leveling the base, or all hell breaks loose.
This doesn't really remove the art of woodworking, it just transfers the art to the design aspect. Is it for everyone? No. Nothing is, but its a good tool for creating intricate designs that would otherwise take tons of time or skill that most people today just don't have. Myself, I can see using it, but for now, I like the hand carving imperfections that make each piece a true "one of a kind".
Twenty-two years CNC fabricator here. It's funny that I get the opposite reaction in the wood shop. Every little task is by default sent to the CNC department even if a traditional tool like a table saw would be a better choice for the task. "We need 3 rectangles of plywood 12x12 inch." I'll walk past them to the table saw and be done in a fraction of the time LOL. But to your point, CNCs are amazing machines and I feel privileged to get to "play" with them everyday for pay.
i remember once my boss got mad at me for making custom cardboard shipping boxes for products to be shipped on the cnc router. to me it made sense because i could make the most cost effective size and shaped box for shipping rates. he told me a knife would be faster. sure. but was that few minutes of saved time worth it? fuck it.
Great video. I too share your thoughts on the present and future of woodworking and general manufacturing using CNC. Every time I try using traditional woodworking machines I don't quite get the joints, or edges cut or shaped as accurately as I wish. This is why I started building CNC machines in the first place.
CNC is definitely the "here and now" of any production shop but there will always be a niche for custom work, one-off pieces, refit and repair. This became the focus of my work a few years ago. I can see how a CNC would be helpful in creating quality woodwork, but it can't replace a master craftsman.
As a qualified Metal Machinist with a post-trade CNC, there are just things you can do with a CNC you cannot do with conventional lathes, mills, shapers etc. I worked in a place finishing Oil Field Drill Bits tapered angle square threads internal and external etc. that would take you days to do manually .. I could finish 4 units per day so there is that
As production costs for new stuff decrease, repair becomes increasingly untenable unless the old article cannot be replaced, like for like - historical or sentimental value, very old furniture. Even then the costs of repair might be out of reach for your average person. Unattended CNC operation is the holy grail of any manufacturing process. Either by having a table large enough you can set up a multi-hour operation or by having a robot load and unload the machine automatically. CNC's can automate and improve the quality of low skill jobs meaning you can focus more on your "art", the stuff a robot or a cnc simply can't do. They also open up a whole lot of creative opportunities to improve the work you do. Doing it the hard way isn't necessarily art. Sometimes it's just being stubborn and unwilling to learn. A bit Luddite you could say.
@@xm210c There's definitely some Luddites in the trade. But I don't think a CNC could restore the Louie 14th chairs I did some time ago. They're over 200 years old and worth saving. And like you mentioned, there's an aspect of art in hand crafting.
It's a tool, it's not meant to replace as much as it's meant to assist. It's the same as saying a table saw wouldn't replace a master craftsman. Just because you can pre-program the machine ahead of the cuts it doesn't mean you don't need an experienced person to program, monitor and do the proper finishes once the machine is done. If you really think about it, I bet you could find use for one in your custom works too, just perhaps not the entire process, just like it would be silly to use a table saw for the entire process.
It's a great CNC.. I got the 4X4 Pro version in 2017. I love it for my hobby. To cut on cost, I got my own electronics and wired it myself. I was definitely steep learning curve on how it works and configured. It was a great experience putting everything together. I was using Vcarve but switched to Fusion 360 because I also do 3D printing and Fusion 360 can do both. I would call it behemoth.
Nice. I just acquired my first 4x4 cnc r machine. It was originally a plasma cutter but now it’s more like a shop bot model. I’m fairly new to fusion but that’s what I bought to learn from. Learning fusion has been my biggest challenge more so on putting time into it. I have a recent new China laser machine that gets most of my attention learning Light burn. My prayers have been answered for these machines but transparently I could use prayer for more jobs and some momentum on the cnc. Feel free to share ideas on getting jobs or projects. I wouldn’t mind starlet production work for companies outsourcing but not sure how to find them atm. With gratitude.
So glad I found you! You make great suggestions and explain things very well. Going through a midlife crisis and completely changing careers. I’m looking into different business opportunities that mix creativity with building. Thank you for sharing!
I'm new at this and liked the video...I have bn making a wood wind instrument as a hobby.and have decided to get out of wood floors(since 1987).and get a shop on my house and be able to CNC the parts out..your video is a good starting point to see what can happen if one stays at it....I am after a specific shape...I will watch more.
Great video! I’m definitely thinking how I could budget one in. I get it’s not the old school hard core woodworker way, but if you are trying to make a business out of your love for woodworking I agree it’s the logical way to go. Saves tons of time which in return makes money. I have so much respect for the ones using hand tools, and especially their patience and I love watching them work. I think for the ordinary Joe that loves building things and would like to turn that into a business ( doing something you love for work is a dream that I think everyone should have if that can) then this is definitely the way to go for the most part. I’d prefer to make epoxy tables for a living and have some woodworkers hate online than go do something I can’t stand every day just because of someone’s opinion. If it makes you happy, provides you with a living, and allows you more time for other things in life then I’m all in. I guess now it comes down to pricing your work to not cut out those who do everything by hand.
My dad was a great woodworker and a computer engineer. He built his own cnc. It’s just sitting in the shop since he passed away. Would love to learn how to use it.
So sorry about your Dad's passing. There's lots of resources on TH-cam about learning to use a CNC and I assure you, it's a great tool, nog just for furniture making but for signage making and other things. All the best.
I agree, the CNC future is excellent, especially if you want to product multiples or flat pack type furniture. It also can do so much with 3d carving and inlays --that lots of customization is possible as well. If you are looking to make money or even just pay for your toy you can't go wrong with CNC.
"Some Assembly Required"!!! Thanks for making this. I'm actually building a 48x48 Gatton CNC as I'm listening to this video. I also run a commercial grade CNC at work, cranking out high-end cabinets. I have a whole line of Stickley-style furniture, cut out of europly plywood.
Since you refer to it as a monster of a machine, I think you should name it Frankenstein! Good luck as you go forward with your shop and your new tool.
I think a combination of both hands on and CNC depending on the needs of a particular project, customer or client. I have questioned the use of CNC myself and at one time thought I would never use one, some people say it's unnatural and takes away from real hands on woodworking craftmanship and I get this, however after much thinking I've come to the conclusion that CNC machines may not be natural but they are part of a progression of nature because their still made or designed by humans who used craftmanship and design elements that only humans can do, so in essence, CNC is just another extension of human nature and it's just part of the evolution process, it still takes brains, thinking, talent and creativity to build things. it's not something just anyone can do or have interest in. So IMHO their is a good need and use for CNC, however, you could not use CNC to make an all natural rocking chair made of all natural tree branches so both world's of woodworking serve a purpose IMHO, not every project has the same purpose or reason or life.
Hey Jonny! Not sure if you’ll see this but if you do any chance you could provide a list of everything you ordered to get to your setup (minus your own dust collection design). Just went on Avid CNC’s site and looks like the pro kit is one thing but there are a ton of upgrade options and additional purchases (eg legs assembly, plug n play CNC control system etc). I know I might be asking a lot but something like this in the description would be extremely helpful or maybe a mention of it in your next video. Very keen to go down this path and upgrade from my current CNC.
Cncs are here to stay, no question. I won't argue that they are super helpful for small businesses and creative design. I don't know if they are for sure the future though. The biggest reason so many of us are in the shop is the human element of it. We like to create with our hands and I think the cnc makes shop time more impersonal. While great for making a specific part that just couldn't happen without the cnc I don't think it can ever replace the buzz of a table saw or chips flying off the lathe. An awesome addition but not the entire shop in itself.
I completely agree here. If cnc is "the future of woodworking" then that's where "woodworking" will die. Another "trade" lost much like the true Damascus steel making. And to add to this: if cnc is the future of woodworking, then anyone will be able to call themselves a "woodworker" if they know the software. Hell, my 13yr old son who knows sketchup, through school, is a woodworker since he can easily convert the sketchup files to stl (cnc files) and work a cnc. He even knows how to do 3D printing. I don't even know how since we don't have a 3D printer, much less a cnc
I like the things made on this channel, but it kind of lost me as a woodworking channel when he made drawer fronts on the CNC rather than on the table saw. That was over the top in my opinion and made me realize what the channel is and is not.
I thought we would see the features and stuff it can do, addons etc. Maybe compare it to old one, but all we got is I got a new gadget and "how great it was"
Kudos for the benefit this has had for your building, but as an Australian, I find it very surprising hearing how you say it's the future. I'm assuming CNC flatbeds aren't really popular in NA. Down under they've been the staple for small, medium & large businesses for the last two decades. I almost take flatbed nesting for granted considering I myself have been using it for the last 10 years. Glad to see it's gaining momentum however, as this will breed competition and innovation in a current niche of the industry that I feel is somewhat languishing. Keep up the good work.
I had the same thoughts! On the other hand, they've been adopting 3d printing/additive manufacturing at a faster rate than we have. Lots to learn both ways 👍
I remember being in the fourth grade in 1987 and my teacher was talking about the future and now it has arrived! I think the small shops are back in vogue stimulating a new American economy of manufacturing. Something I think we can all appreciate. I too am new to fusion 360 and chose to get it for the $500 a year. I have played around with sketch up and might be wondering if I should start there instead just to get things done faster because it could be more intuitive. Either way my fight is to put the hours in on fusion and choosing a good starting point. Let us know if you suggest a good educational platform besides all the random TH-cam videos. Thanks for the video and super sexy machine my man!
Well, as someone who built his humble career around CNC machines, I welcome you among us. They have been around for a couple of decades now and they are getting better and better everyday. In my opinion, like plastic manufacturing then metal working, wood working will find its was into 3D printing. Probably something like MDF will be printed by our exact needs soon.
It depends... If we're talking about a business shop, then absolutely. It's a total necessity, I would say. But for a hobby shop like mine... Well... Not so much. But, still, it would be great to have one! Either way... Congrats, Jonny!!! 😃 Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊
The supply for high quality woodworking products has never been oversaturated because the skill required keeps those doing it limited in numbers. CNC is definitely flooding the market and the lack of skill required means it will continue to draw in and eventually be oversaturated. I'm a huge advocate for CNC manufacturing but if I'm at an event with things I actually made but next to someone else with similar or better that they made with CNC, it will be exceptionally frustrating. Add an NS to the end of CNC?
Thank you for removing the cloud over using CNC machines. I've worked in a machine shop since '76 and used a ShopBot in my CAM class for 20 years. In working with students and apprentice machinists they get all of the stuff that old guys, like me, learned later (especially CAD). Their computer skills are top shelf. The best people get the flexibility that you are talking about. These machines release the creativity of these young CNC adherents. Do they understand all that experienced shop veterans know? Not yet, but they are fast learners. We do stress the understanding of setup. alignment and especially workholding. I'll be retiring soon, guess what is going into my shop?
I think it’s a fantastic machine but I like the process of using the jointer, planer, and table saw with lumber. I’m going to keep CNC in mind though because learning something new is always good for me. Maybe call it Snuffleupagus? Those dust bristles around the cutter just remind me of him.
Can you turn the 5x5 in to a 5x10? Thinking space wise the 5x5 would be a good start with Nema34 motors. Upgrade if I have the room later. Curious how hard it is to get 3phase power installed at home.. and more so how much it costs to run the machine every day.
I agree about cncs being a lot more common in small shops and diy/ hobby shops. I'm considering one for mine too. And fellow Sooner fan here, definitely think you should name it Boomer!
As a classical woodworker and cabinetmaker I have spent the last few decades focusing on furniture from the Pre-Edwardian periods for restoration on private contracts. While I would LOVE to add a CNC to my wood shop, and it would add speed, perfect detail and accuracy to my work, the contract I have with my customers is to use only materials, fasteners, glues and tools that existed in the day the piece of furniture was made. While this limits me to only accepting four contracts per year maximum it also spreads the butter on my very satisfying bread….and puts the diesel in my truck…soooooo….I will drool over these tools and continue to do what I do.
I think its a great tool to open up all kinds of opportunities. It's just the capital to buy such a tool but I guess there's always places out there with a CNC you can use until you meet the demand or orders where you can afford or persuade a bank to see your purchase orders to allow you to buy one it's definitely making me consider the opportunity as I already have design and cad skills. The growth in online retail is another plus.
Good investment and my dream, the cost is relevant but market for its products must be available, woodworking has options and its the beautiful thing about it , for now I do believe high end shops with experience should take on it .
Name it the Kracken. Lol. I have a CNC in my shop as well, and they are worth their weight in gold. Not as big as yours but it does a lot of work for me in a fraction of the time it would take traditionally. In some cases nearly impossible. Thanks for the video. Great job 👌👌
Good purchase ! The more advanced version would be to use the diagonal CNC machine. Those occupy less floor space, while cutting larger work areas. Prefab home builders use CNC and offer cheaper homes, which they deliver in parts.
I already have a family business in intricate wood carving. But honestly a very few people actually wanna put the time in to learn how to do carving like that. Would you advise pivoting into a more "manufacturing with a cnc" kind of business?
I was so impressed with the build quality of this unit. It looks like a lot of thought and care went into manufacturing this CNC. I hope to get there one day :) As for the name Sarah a good solid name for such a robust CNC
I am interested but not convinced. I assemble a lot of Ikea furniture for TaskRabbit. I doubt that I could ever match them for design, quality, or price on CNC manufactured furniture. The only angle I could reasonably try for is to try to find a niche item they don't make. The reason I would be getting into woodworking or furniture building is, even Ikea furniture leaves a lot to be desired, especially for durability.
Having a CNC machine cuts the cost of flattening slabs, making logos and cutting shapes to such a degree, it is crazy! Think how much it costs to do it somewhere else (time, transport, price). My CNC is my number one go to machine (the second is the planer). It's magical. JESSY should be the name :)
CNC is the future of making money as a renter. $110 an hour and for a large slab, that would take a couple hours vs 75$ and hour and I can level a slab in 10 minutes for basically 40$. I personally hate cnc for flattening large slabs as chip outs and oddball patterns I have to meticulously sand out. I prefer the wide sander. If it's too big, then yes I'd go with a CNC. Do I want to OWN a CNC? Yes, yes I do but I have a love hate relationship with them. With that said, your take on it is valid - it's a great way to expand your business. Really, it depends on what a person is looking for, if your a builder or customer, etc.
Very nice, I’ve got the original one from Cnc Routerparts . Makes money every day for me. The new bearings and z-plate are a great upgrade from mine. Because of mainly my use of sheet goods I went with a vacuum bed instead. At some point you may wish to switch to an ATC . So much time gets wasted with tool changing manually. The only is is real estate from the kit size. However with Avid you just need to add a little more length for tool storage.
I too had purchased the xcarve but haven't had any real luck on sales. if I could just catch that one break, I had looked into the larger machines to do more detailed work and sign making. but.. gotta have the income coming in first. perhaps some of yall could give a few pointers
You are probably right if making money is your priority. Personally, I am a craftsman because I enjoy craftsmanship, which involves using my own hands. No, I am not rich, and I never will be, but I sure do enjoy making things!
I just bought the exact same machine, except I added the 4 axis lathe. I bought it originally to do custom cabinet work. Oddly enough I have yet to cut a carcass out on this machine. I have spent hours making Wall hangings and signs though. Doing the 3d carvings is great fun
I think that CNC machines will be used in future, but some traditional industries will be replaced with 3D printing, main reason for that is development of 3D printers, 3D printers alredy can print metals and alloys, yeah i know that 3D printer basically is CNC machine, if we talk about furniture industry its for sure that CNC machines are staying here for a long time, but some other industries that is "unapproachable" for proccessing with CNC machines will be swallowed by 3D printers, my opinion is that the casting industry will be replaced with 3D printing for small objects, and in future that scale will just get higher and higher.
cnc and cad cam has been common place in manufacturing since the 1990. Either making it in metal or wood. Looking at where burning man has evolved too with the wood builds in the last 15 years.. CNC has been around for three decades in the woodshop, you just missed the machine sitting in the corner doing its thing. Glad you made it though.
unobtainable dream.... i have the money for that machine right here right now, i want it delivered immediately..... getting that much power out to my shop will cost at least 5 times that much.
Good evening Jonny, hope doing well my name is Duncan and I'm in S.A...I am really struggling to level/ balance my gantry but no success any advice or recommendation please...
Get yourself a Yeti Smart Bench. 8' x 4' working area, collapsible and transportable from workshop to sites, 3-minute setup time (maybe half an hour the first time - certainly not 18-hours) and costs only £6500 ($8200). Seriously, check it out. A real game changer.
Your video was very intuitive and I loved it. What is your computer set up beside your CNC? I have been 3D printing for the past year and I want to graduate to the next level and get an x-carve. Curious what your computer set was?
It would help if you defined CNC/explained what it is - some of us have no clue. I prefer to work on a small scale, rescuing old pieces and scraps of wood.
CNC stands for "Computerized Numerical Control". It's a generic acronym that applies to a variety of automated machines such as lathes, milling machines, laser cutting machines, water jet cutting machines, welding machines, to name a few. In the woodworking realm CNC is used in conjunction with a router spindle mounted on a rail system to provide horizontal (x and y axis) and vertical (z-axis) motion control. That's what your looking at in the video...a router that can move along x,y,z axes controlled by a computer.
People should understand when watching a video like this, that you can't order equipment like this and suddenly have a successful business. It's a productivity/capability tool with no equal. But building a business is the same as with any business. You have to build up demand for your services. Many well equipped business fail for not appreciating this simple idea.
Word.
👍🏻
Yup, fill the pipeline
here I was looking how much it costed, your comment bringed me back to earth lol
Well said
The first half of the th-cam.com/users/postUgkx3ICSK6nSknaL_45CU2NmFSoXjarGMDiJ book is everything about wood: types, tools, finishes, setting up shop etc. The second half is all about doing projects for inside and outside of the home. The color pictures are helpful. After reading a dozen of these types of books, this is probably the best overall (layout, color photos, plans). Only detraction is that many of the projects use a table saw/router/planer, which are usually expensive and take up space, so the plans are less friendly to newcomers and the budget conscious. But I know I can use a drill, circular saw or a jigsaw to make the projects.
Goliath springs to mind. Second time viewer and now new follower. Loved woodworking my entire life but have nowhere to work now that I'm retired. I love watching younger folks succeed in these times.
Thanks!
$7.1K + freight if anyone is wondering. Don't expect anything less than $3-4K if you're a DIY. The beefy gantry, LM guides, and electronics account for much of the cost, and they're not cheap. I'd use SBR16 to cut down the cost and still be in the $1.5K-2K range for a 4x8 build. The easiest way to level the cutting bed is to run passes through a sacrificial HDF/MDF base. My pride as a mechanical/electrical/automation CSE in the semiconductor industry doesn't allow me to take that shortcut because the success of a multi-million dollar installation starts with leveling the base, or all hell breaks loose.
If you know how to weld really well and make it fit up properly the cost is lowered by a lot.
Have fun with the new machine, it opens up a lot of new possibilities! Best regards!
This doesn't really remove the art of woodworking, it just transfers the art to the design aspect. Is it for everyone? No. Nothing is, but its a good tool for creating intricate designs that would otherwise take tons of time or skill that most people today just don't have.
Myself, I can see using it, but for now, I like the hand carving imperfections that make each piece a true "one of a kind".
Twenty-two years CNC fabricator here. It's funny that I get the opposite reaction in the wood shop. Every little task is by default sent to the CNC department even if a traditional tool like a table saw would be a better choice for the task. "We need 3 rectangles of plywood 12x12 inch." I'll walk past them to the table saw and be done in a fraction of the time LOL. But to your point, CNCs are amazing machines and I feel privileged to get to "play" with them everyday for pay.
i remember once my boss got mad at me for making custom cardboard shipping boxes for products to be shipped on the cnc router. to me it made sense because i could make the most cost effective size and shaped box for shipping rates. he told me a knife would be faster. sure. but was that few minutes of saved time worth it? fuck it.
Great video. I too share your thoughts on the present and future of woodworking and general manufacturing using CNC. Every time I try using traditional woodworking machines I don't quite get the joints, or edges cut or shaped as accurately as I wish. This is why I started building CNC machines in the first place.
CNC is definitely the "here and now" of any production shop but there will always be a niche for custom work, one-off pieces, refit and repair. This became the focus of my work a few years ago. I can see how a CNC would be helpful in creating quality woodwork, but it can't replace a master craftsman.
As a qualified Metal Machinist with a post-trade CNC, there are just things you can do with a CNC you cannot do with conventional lathes, mills, shapers etc.
I worked in a place finishing Oil Field Drill Bits tapered angle square threads internal and external etc. that would take you days to do manually .. I could finish 4 units per day so there is that
As production costs for new stuff decrease, repair becomes increasingly untenable unless the old article cannot be replaced, like for like - historical or sentimental value, very old furniture. Even then the costs of repair might be out of reach for your average person.
Unattended CNC operation is the holy grail of any manufacturing process. Either by having a table large enough you can set up a multi-hour operation or by having a robot load and unload the machine automatically.
CNC's can automate and improve the quality of low skill jobs meaning you can focus more on your "art", the stuff a robot or a cnc simply can't do. They also open up a whole lot of creative opportunities to improve the work you do.
Doing it the hard way isn't necessarily art. Sometimes it's just being stubborn and unwilling to learn. A bit Luddite you could say.
@@xm210c There's definitely some Luddites in the trade. But I don't think a CNC could restore the Louie 14th chairs I did some time ago. They're over 200 years old and worth saving. And like you mentioned, there's an aspect of art in hand crafting.
It's a tool, it's not meant to replace as much as it's meant to assist. It's the same as saying a table saw wouldn't replace a master craftsman. Just because you can pre-program the machine ahead of the cuts it doesn't mean you don't need an experienced person to program, monitor and do the proper finishes once the machine is done. If you really think about it, I bet you could find use for one in your custom works too, just perhaps not the entire process, just like it would be silly to use a table saw for the entire process.
So excited for you buddy!! Wish I had a chance to play with it. Next time
It's a great CNC.. I got the 4X4 Pro version in 2017. I love it for my hobby. To cut on cost, I got my own electronics and wired it myself. I was definitely steep learning curve on how it works and configured. It was a great experience putting everything together. I was using Vcarve but switched to Fusion 360 because I also do 3D printing and Fusion 360 can do both. I would call it behemoth.
Nice. I just acquired my first 4x4 cnc r machine. It was originally a plasma cutter but now it’s more like a shop bot model. I’m fairly new to fusion but that’s what I bought to learn from. Learning fusion has been my biggest challenge more so on putting time into it. I have a recent new China laser machine that gets most of my attention learning Light burn. My prayers have been answered for these machines but transparently I could use prayer for more jobs and some momentum on the cnc. Feel free to share ideas on getting jobs or projects. I wouldn’t mind starlet production work for companies outsourcing but not sure how to find them atm. With gratitude.
So glad I found you! You make great suggestions and explain things very well. Going through a midlife crisis and completely changing careers. I’m looking into different business opportunities that mix creativity with building. Thank you for sharing!
I am a total wood working noob but managed to make a complex landing platform for small rotorcraft with a CNC router and plywood. Totally agree!
I'm new at this and liked the video...I have bn making a wood wind instrument as a hobby.and have decided to get out of wood floors(since 1987).and get a shop on my house and be able to CNC the parts out..your video is a good starting point to see what can happen if one stays at it....I am after a specific shape...I will watch more.
Great video! I’m definitely thinking how I could budget one in. I get it’s not the old school hard core woodworker way, but if you are trying to make a business out of your love for woodworking I agree it’s the logical way to go. Saves tons of time which in return makes money. I have so much respect for the ones using hand tools, and especially their patience and I love watching them work. I think for the ordinary Joe that loves building things and would like to turn that into a business ( doing something you love for work is a dream that I think everyone should have if that can) then this is definitely the way to go for the most part. I’d prefer to make epoxy tables for a living and have some woodworkers hate online than go do something I can’t stand every day just because of someone’s opinion. If it makes you happy, provides you with a living, and allows you more time for other things in life then I’m all in.
I guess now it comes down to pricing your work to not cut out those who do everything by hand.
My dad was a great woodworker and a computer engineer. He built his own cnc. It’s just sitting in the shop since he passed away. Would love to learn how to use it.
So sorry about your Dad's passing. There's lots of resources on TH-cam about learning to use a CNC and I assure you, it's a great tool, nog just for furniture making but for signage making and other things. All the best.
I agree, the CNC future is excellent, especially if you want to product multiples or flat pack type furniture. It also can do so much with 3d carving and inlays --that lots of customization is possible as well. If you are looking to make money or even just pay for your toy you can't go wrong with CNC.
"Some Assembly Required"!!! Thanks for making this. I'm actually building a 48x48 Gatton CNC as I'm listening to this video. I also run a commercial grade CNC at work, cranking out high-end cabinets. I have a whole line of Stickley-style furniture, cut out of europly plywood.
Chip or Dusty?
I love seening small businesses take off
Hello Jonny, did you pay for this cnc or was it provided for you to make this video?
Come on Johnny it's gotta be called "Jabba the cut"!! 🤣🤣
Since you refer to it as a monster of a machine, I think you should name it Frankenstein! Good luck as you go forward with your shop and your new tool.
I think a combination of both hands on and CNC depending on the needs of a particular project, customer or client.
I have questioned the use of CNC myself and at one time thought I would never use one, some people say it's unnatural and takes away from real hands on woodworking craftmanship and I get this, however after much thinking I've come to the conclusion that CNC machines may not be natural but they are part of a progression of nature because their still made or designed by humans who used craftmanship and design elements that only humans can do, so in essence, CNC is just another extension of human nature and it's just part of the evolution process, it still takes brains, thinking, talent and creativity to build things. it's not something just anyone can do or have interest in.
So IMHO their is a good need and use for CNC, however, you could not use CNC to make an all natural rocking chair made of all natural tree branches so both world's of woodworking serve a purpose IMHO, not every project has the same purpose or reason or life.
Hey Jonny! Not sure if you’ll see this but if you do any chance you could provide a list of everything you ordered to get to your setup (minus your own dust collection design). Just went on Avid CNC’s site and looks like the pro kit is one thing but there are a ton of upgrade options and additional purchases (eg legs assembly, plug n play CNC control system etc). I know I might be asking a lot but something like this in the description would be extremely helpful or maybe a mention of it in your next video. Very keen to go down this path and upgrade from my current CNC.
Cncs are here to stay, no question. I won't argue that they are super helpful for small businesses and creative design. I don't know if they are for sure the future though. The biggest reason so many of us are in the shop is the human element of it. We like to create with our hands and I think the cnc makes shop time more impersonal. While great for making a specific part that just couldn't happen without the cnc I don't think it can ever replace the buzz of a table saw or chips flying off the lathe. An awesome addition but not the entire shop in itself.
I completely agree here. If cnc is "the future of woodworking" then that's where "woodworking" will die. Another "trade" lost much like the true Damascus steel making. And to add to this: if cnc is the future of woodworking, then anyone will be able to call themselves a "woodworker" if they know the software. Hell, my 13yr old son who knows sketchup, through school, is a woodworker since he can easily convert the sketchup files to stl (cnc files) and work a cnc. He even knows how to do 3D printing. I don't even know how since we don't have a 3D printer, much less a cnc
totally agree if this is the future then he needs to change his name to Ikea.
Digital woodwork is not to replace woodworking as we know it, it complements it.
I like the things made on this channel, but it kind of lost me as a woodworking channel when he made drawer fronts on the CNC rather than on the table saw. That was over the top in my opinion and made me realize what the channel is and is not.
I thought we would see the features and stuff it can do, addons etc. Maybe compare it to old one, but all we got is I got a new gadget and "how great it was"
Just bought the same today ) can't wait. btw, name it little green woodpecker
Kudos for the benefit this has had for your building, but as an Australian, I find it very surprising hearing how you say it's the future. I'm assuming CNC flatbeds aren't really popular in NA. Down under they've been the staple for small, medium & large businesses for the last two decades. I almost take flatbed nesting for granted considering I myself have been using it for the last 10 years. Glad to see it's gaining momentum however, as this will breed competition and innovation in a current niche of the industry that I feel is somewhat languishing. Keep up the good work.
I had the same thoughts! On the other hand, they've been adopting 3d printing/additive manufacturing at a faster rate than we have. Lots to learn both ways 👍
Great video again, bro👍👍👍
I remember being in the fourth grade in 1987 and my teacher was talking about the future and now it has arrived! I think the small shops are back in vogue stimulating a new American economy of manufacturing. Something I think we can all appreciate. I too am new to fusion 360 and chose to get it for the $500 a year. I have played around with sketch up and might be wondering if I should start there instead just to get things done faster because it could be more intuitive. Either way my fight is to put the hours in on fusion and choosing a good starting point. Let us know if you suggest a good educational platform besides all the random TH-cam videos. Thanks for the video and super sexy machine my man!
A honest and sincere video. Thank you. CNC is a mystery to me though I have Fusion 360 3D modeling experience. This video is helping.
Well, as someone who built his humble career around CNC machines, I welcome you among us. They have been around for a couple of decades now and they are getting better and better everyday.
In my opinion, like plastic manufacturing then metal working, wood working will find its was into 3D printing. Probably something like MDF will be printed by our exact needs soon.
you should name it a beast. cant wait to see your projects
How did you get customers for CNC? Great video!
It depends... If we're talking about a business shop, then absolutely. It's a total necessity, I would say.
But for a hobby shop like mine... Well... Not so much. But, still, it would be great to have one!
Either way... Congrats, Jonny!!! 😃
Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊
The supply for high quality woodworking products has never been oversaturated because the skill required keeps those doing it limited in numbers. CNC is definitely flooding the market and the lack of skill required means it will continue to draw in and eventually be oversaturated. I'm a huge advocate for CNC manufacturing but if I'm at an event with things I actually made but next to someone else with similar or better that they made with CNC, it will be exceptionally frustrating. Add an NS to the end of CNC?
Thank you for removing the cloud over using CNC machines. I've worked in a machine shop since '76 and used a ShopBot in my CAM class for 20 years. In working with students and apprentice machinists they get all of the stuff that old guys, like me, learned later (especially CAD). Their computer skills are top shelf. The best people get the flexibility that you are talking about. These machines release the creativity of these young CNC adherents. Do they understand all that experienced shop veterans know? Not yet, but they are fast learners. We do stress the understanding of setup. alignment and especially workholding. I'll be retiring soon, guess what is going into my shop?
How does the machine know how big the slab is and wat the shape is
I think it’s a fantastic machine but I like the process of using the jointer, planer, and table saw with lumber. I’m going to keep CNC in mind though because learning something new is always good for me.
Maybe call it Snuffleupagus? Those dust bristles around the cutter just remind me of him.
It’s a robot worker. Owning robot workers to do jobs, and make money for their owner, is 100% way to go. Rock on!
My CNC is named Milldred. Seemed appropriate. Vcarve Pro 11. Axion AR8Pro. I mainly do inlays. Good luck and congrats.
My plasma machine is called Pele' (the goddess if fire)
Were you nervous about hitting that aluminum extrusion with your bit when your ran those pockets on the spoil board mounting holes?
Atlas would be a good name. Because it is holding the world of woodworking on its back.
Great Video:)
PS: like the greek god
Can you turn the 5x5 in to a 5x10? Thinking space wise the 5x5 would be a good start with Nema34 motors. Upgrade if I have the room later. Curious how hard it is to get 3phase power installed at home.. and more so how much it costs to run the machine every day.
Most places will not install 3 phase power in a home shop. You can get a converter to change single phase to 3 phase.
Where can i find the video on the cart with the monitor lift?
I agree about cncs being a lot more common in small shops and diy/ hobby shops. I'm considering one for mine too. And fellow Sooner fan here, definitely think you should name it Boomer!
As a classical woodworker and cabinetmaker I have spent the last few decades focusing on furniture from the Pre-Edwardian periods for restoration on private contracts. While I would LOVE to add a CNC to my wood shop, and it would add speed, perfect detail and accuracy to my work, the contract I have with my customers is to use only materials, fasteners, glues and tools that existed in the day the piece of furniture was made. While this limits me to only accepting four contracts per year maximum it also spreads the butter on my very satisfying bread….and puts the diesel in my truck…soooooo….I will drool over these tools and continue to do what I do.
Does it come with the software required to design the CNC parts?..or do I need to purchase a separate CAD program?
I think its a great tool to open up all kinds of opportunities. It's just the capital to buy such a tool but I guess there's always places out there with a CNC you can use until you meet the demand or orders where you can afford or persuade a bank to see your purchase orders to allow you to buy one it's definitely making me consider the opportunity as I already have design and cad skills. The growth in online retail is another plus.
Good investment and my dream, the cost is relevant but market for its products must be available, woodworking has options and its the beautiful thing about it , for now I do believe high end shops with experience should take on it .
Name it the Kracken. Lol. I have a CNC in my shop as well, and they are worth their weight in gold. Not as big as yours but it does a lot of work for me in a fraction of the time it would take traditionally. In some cases nearly impossible. Thanks for the video. Great job 👌👌
Can you put the link for the machine?
How about......wait for it.....Oakie.....not only for the wood species but for also where you are located!!!!!!! Love ya man!
I just specked out one like yours, OUCH!!! What type phase converter would it take to run this spindle in a home shop environment static or rotary?
Great video brother! Keep up the great work! You’re really good at this and I am glad to see you’ve got a good following. 👊
Good purchase !
The more advanced version would be to use the diagonal CNC machine.
Those occupy less floor space, while cutting larger work areas.
Prefab home builders use CNC and offer cheaper homes, which they deliver in parts.
I already have a family business in intricate wood carving. But honestly a very few people actually wanna put the time in to learn how to do carving like that. Would you advise pivoting into a more "manufacturing with a cnc" kind of business?
I was so impressed with the build quality of this unit. It looks like a lot of thought and care went into manufacturing this CNC. I hope to get there one day :) As for the name Sarah a good solid name for such a robust CNC
Avid CNC used to be called CNCRouterParts and they've been at it for a while. They've been improving the design for years.
CNC leads me to C&C, or Command & Conquer - and if I'm heading that way, we'd have to call it Kane.
I see you can add a plasma attachment to this Pro fixture but it doesn't look like more than an after thought. I'm leaning towards the Plasma CAM.
Do your research by the time you pay all their hidden fees you could buy a JD 2 or other light industrial set up.
What was the cost of the this CNC? Thanks
I am interested but not convinced. I assemble a lot of Ikea furniture for TaskRabbit. I doubt that I could ever match them for design, quality, or price on CNC manufactured furniture. The only angle I could reasonably try for is to try to find a niche item they don't make. The reason I would be getting into woodworking or furniture building is, even Ikea furniture leaves a lot to be desired, especially for durability.
I can’t wait to see what you do with this
Cost?
Thanks for your video.
Having a CNC machine cuts the cost of flattening slabs, making logos and cutting shapes to such a degree, it is crazy!
Think how much it costs to do it somewhere else (time, transport, price). My CNC is my number one go to machine (the second is the planer). It's magical.
JESSY should be the name :)
CNC is the future of making money as a renter. $110 an hour and for a large slab, that would take a couple hours vs 75$ and hour and I can level a slab in 10 minutes for basically 40$. I personally hate cnc for flattening large slabs as chip outs and oddball patterns I have to meticulously sand out. I prefer the wide sander. If it's too big, then yes I'd go with a CNC. Do I want to OWN a CNC? Yes, yes I do but I have a love hate relationship with them. With that said, your take on it is valid - it's a great way to expand your business. Really, it depends on what a person is looking for, if your a builder or customer, etc.
was really hoping to see the process and what machine can do and how fast and not just listen how it will pay itself off for 15. minutes
Very nice, I’ve got the original one from Cnc Routerparts . Makes money every day for me. The new bearings and z-plate are a great upgrade from mine. Because of mainly my use of sheet goods I went with a vacuum bed instead. At some point you may wish to switch to an ATC . So much time gets wasted with tool changing manually. The only is is real estate from the kit size. However with Avid you just need to add a little more length for tool storage.
Johnny Build’s BEAST!
Just from a business perspective CNC's make a ton of sense. They have so many ways they can be used.
I too had purchased the xcarve but haven't had any real luck on sales. if I could just catch that one break, I had looked into the larger machines to do more detailed work and sign making. but.. gotta have the income coming in first. perhaps some of yall could give a few pointers
Well done man 👍
Hello, does Avid CNC (PRO4896 4' x 8' CNC Router Kit) work with Fusion 360?
You are probably right if making money is your priority. Personally, I am a craftsman because I enjoy craftsmanship, which involves using my own hands. No, I am not rich, and I never will be, but I sure do enjoy making things!
I absolutely love my cnc!! And you should name it buster!!
What cnc is it, are there any plans?
I just bought the exact same machine, except I added the 4 axis lathe. I bought it originally to do custom cabinet work. Oddly enough I have yet to cut a carcass out on this machine. I have spent hours making Wall hangings and signs though. Doing the 3d carvings is great fun
Very cool!
I think that CNC machines will be used in future, but some traditional industries will be replaced with 3D printing, main reason for that is development of 3D printers, 3D printers alredy can print metals and alloys, yeah i know that 3D printer basically is CNC machine, if we talk about furniture industry its for sure that CNC machines are staying here for a long time, but some other industries that is "unapproachable" for proccessing with CNC machines will be swallowed by 3D printers, my opinion is that the casting industry will be replaced with 3D printing for small objects, and in future that scale will just get higher and higher.
What is the cost of that machine and where to get it
What is the name of the CNC ? Maybe I missed it:)
Did you name it?
Great video. Totally agree. Affordable robots (and CAD) are slowly changing our world. Centralized manufacturing swinging back to decentralized, "buy local." Mahalo for sharing! : )
cnc and cad cam has been common place in manufacturing since the 1990. Either making it in metal or wood. Looking at where burning man has evolved too with the wood builds in the last 15 years.. CNC has been around for three decades in the woodshop, you just missed the machine sitting in the corner doing its thing. Glad you made it though.
Question probably asked a lot is WHERE do we look for work.
Totally agree with you about CNCs; machine should be named Stella or Helga! 😂
unobtainable dream.... i have the money for that machine right here right now, i want it delivered immediately..... getting that much power out to my shop will cost at least 5 times that much.
Good evening Jonny, hope doing well my name is Duncan and I'm in S.A...I am really struggling to level/ balance my gantry but no success any advice or recommendation please...
What cnc do you have?
Great Video...
Ditched the X Carve Pro after four months?
I love the name for your CNC “Zeus”
Kronos Rombotics beat him to that one.
so how much was that cnc?
Get yourself a Yeti Smart Bench. 8' x 4' working area, collapsible and transportable from workshop to sites, 3-minute setup time (maybe half an hour the first time - certainly not 18-hours) and costs only £6500 ($8200). Seriously, check it out. A real game changer.
Your video was very intuitive and I loved it. What is your computer set up beside your CNC? I have been 3D printing for the past year and I want to graduate to the next level and get an x-carve. Curious what your computer set was?
Lol I would love to see you take your CNC on site and get laughed back off. 😄
I have a 150$ porter cable router... its slow but does the same thing...
It would help if you defined CNC/explained what it is - some of us have no clue. I prefer to work on a small scale, rescuing old pieces and scraps of wood.
CNC stands for "Computerized Numerical Control". It's a generic acronym that applies to a variety of automated machines such as lathes, milling machines, laser cutting machines, water jet cutting machines, welding machines, to name a few.
In the woodworking realm CNC is used in conjunction with a router spindle mounted on a rail system to provide horizontal (x and y axis) and vertical (z-axis) motion control. That's what your looking at in the video...a router that can move along x,y,z axes controlled by a computer.
I am curious what a machine set up like this would roughly cost ? Thanks .
Avid CNC website will give you a good idea.
can u put a link for this exact machine please? Cant find it on avids site.
www.avidcnc.com/pro60120-5-x-10-cnc-router-kit-p-374.html
@@JonnyBuilds ty