Wow! I haven't heard that term in a while. "Self Actualized" that is. It is perfect for April. I just now finished this video and appreciate her sharing some of that self actualized knowledge. I'm at a crossroads in my closet biz. However, I keep my focus on the vision of where I want to be. People like April help fuel me to go to the next level.
You are the perfect example of having a dream / goal and working hard to get there. A “self made entrepreneur “. You started making videos because you needed to do something & couldn’t find a source for help and made your own videos. You’ve created a wonderful business from that lack of resources to complete your project. I’ve watched you form almost the very beginning of your first few small video projects to now a business owner w multiple employees. You are an outstanding inspiration for many people especially young women who believe they need to rely on men or at least other people etc to do something. They can see that anyone can do these things as long as they have the desire & determination. It’s been great to watch your success & I wish you the best going forward!
As an engineer, I've always enjoyed your precise explanations of work processes, but this has just gone to the next level. 3 cheers for your business acumen and productive mindset!
Clint... I was thinking how do I express myself after this video... you hit The Nail on the Head... Beyond my reach... Well Said!!!!.... 110% AGREE!!!!!!!!!
i have a similar story....about 7 years ago i also bought my first cnc. FF to now i have 4 full size tables and 7 lasers (3 different types). Best thing i ever did for my business! and it's FUN going to work every day! congrats on your success!
To say I am impressed is an understatement. I have a business of 12 people and we've grown over the course of about 8 years. You've done remarkable and it should be applauded. Such a great tour and story!
I realized in one of your first videos that you would never go backwards. You've continued to grow as a professional and as a person. Good luck and never look back.
Girl I’ve been watching you from the beginning. When I was a shop teacher I would always play your videos to show my students that they can do what ever they put their mind to. You go girl I’m so proud of you.
One of the best Presentations I have seen in my 63 years. Informative and concise along with great flow. Video quality is great as well. You really can't get much better. Well Done.
A huge congrats ... I remember back to watching you when you were starting out in that little garage space and tackling various hand tools as you did projects. Then we watched as you built the Wood Shed shop which was a major accomplishment in itself and now this. Just think, those first little waves have turned into over a million video subscribers. Well done and keep enjoying what you do ... we do!
Same. I remember that tiny little garage :) you have come a long way April. :) I enjoy all your videos. I wish i understood how the vaccum system on your laguna and Shop Saber were set up. I know there has to be a way to make a vaccum system for the other two.
@@AprilWilkerson And I still get a thrill when I remember the video where you announced you had quit your job and were going to throw all your cards onto the table - hire yourself as a video producer. No trace of "oh what the hell have i done!!!!??" in your manner - you were confident and self-assured - as you have remained. I suspect one of the most dangerous places on earth would be standing between you and a goal you want to achieve. As someone who left a high paying corporate job in 1996 to employ myself as a web developer, I can appreciate some of the highs and lows you've felt along the way. It's been exciting for us to come along with you. Thank you April for sharing it with us. Long may the adventure continue!!!
I love love this so much. I built my first CNC in 2014. It was so hard because I knew nothing. I'm really impress that this young woman not only started with a small cutter but then grew it into this large business. Amurica!!! Love it!
I have been self employed since i was 19 yrs old, so over 50 yrs now and it's been either "feast or famine" but i never begrudged the hours of work where i made no pay because i knew i was creating something that would succeed or fail solely due to my efforts and I would reap the benefits of my labor not someone else. Be conservative in your personal splurges, diversify your talents and "save for a rainy day" and you too will be able to retire early a millionaire, like me. Good Luck!
From NZ... CNC is subject I know Nothing about... so I thought it was about time I learned something... and what better place to come and be impressed by than April's Little Shop on the Prairie..or wherever it is . Great looking system and team. Behind every great Woman there's a great Mum.
April I've been a fan of yours for a while, but after seeing this PRO CNC shop video, my fandom has reached critical mass. I started my own woodworking company in 2020 and I'm on the road to building something great. I walk away truly inspired by what you've accomplished here.
Congratulations April. You are the example of dedication, commitment and entrepreneurship that I want to follow. Keep it up and wish and busy, more profitable and growing 2022.
Automatic pallet changer has increased our production like you wouldn’t believe, the machines are running constantly, change out A pallet whiles B pallet is being cut, machine automatic swaps a and b pallet and starts cutting a pallet. We run high volume steel and aluminum firearms parts but with 4x8 sheets like you run a APC system would definitely be worth looking into plus depending on run times you could even run the machines dark, we work 10 hour days but since a pallet takes 4.5 hours plus to run we run the machines dark and if a tool breaks the sensors catch it
Hi April. This is Ramesh from India .Great going. It was really a pleasure seeing your CNC MACHINE SHOP. FANTASTIC WORK & Great workmanship. You have grown from 1 machine to three machines which is commendable. You really inspire me and also I watch all your videos without fail. GO GO GIRL POWER. I wish you more & more success and I pray to almighty that you have another 30 machines from the present 3.
I bumped into your channel by luck. I went to your channel page after watching this video. WOW!!! What an adventure you have had. I just browsed your videos from oldest to newest and all I can say is WOW!! I'm a subscriber now, lost in the 1.43 Million who think you are amazing. Luvin' it!!
April watching your video was like going down memory lane. I started programing wood routers back in 1983 at SeaRay boats in Oxford Michigan. I have since programed and run just about every CnC mill or lathe you can think of so I applaud you for being such a great spokes person for the industry. Great Job :)
I think what always surprises me, and that I always under-estimate, is the market for something like this. I wouldn't have really imagined there was enough sales in a template business to support 6 people and some expensive machinery.
Its a pleasure to see a young person self educating, and becomiing expert at running a "machine shop" that can wotk with sheets of wood and processed material !
I'll bet Router Bob has a huge smile on his face seeing one of his machines in your shop. It is amazing how far you've come from that little shop in the garage! Keep reaching April!
Beautiful, smart, AND driven! Way to go April! As a custom trim guy for 25 years and aspiring furniture maker, and now home builder, I have been enjoying watching your videos for years. An inspiring and great person you are. Thanks!
Hey April and team, Your beginning content (before your first cnc machine) helped push me to finding out what my passion is and I have now expanded into my own powder coating shop. Seeing others, like you, finding their passions and flourishing is what really helped me. Congrats on everything you deserve it!
I've watched this channel from the very beginning and to see how far you've come, the success you've achieved is nothing short of inspirational. Bravo April you are an inspiration to us small TH-cam channels just starting out ❤
Same here. It started off in a shed and Harbor Freight hacks, and now it's a full-fledged enterprise and TV gig. Having so much pride as a viewer feels bizarre but wonderful to experience.
April, I have watched i think every video you have made. Even in the beginning they were spot on and informative.. you have just kicked the ball through the goal post recently.. and your genuine smile tells you are genuine....best to you going foward
I’ve been watching you seen your home fence rebuild and addition to your roof near the pool. It’s has always been a pleasant experienced watching and learning from you. Thank you April.
I am speechless. I remember one of your first vids where you made a cement small cement slab and now you're working on you're CNC business? I've also seen your other vids the like the one where you built the patio cover and the one you built some outside stairs. You do it all your DIY projects with a smile and positive I can do it attitude. Way to go April.
April, I don't know how you managed to get where you are , but you've done an amazing job of setting youself up ! You are definitely an inspiration to me ! Love your channel !
This is exactly what I wanted to do 10 years ago. Still haven't got a shed big enough for it. Guess I need to think smaller and build up. Thanks April for your inspirational video.
Oh GREAT! Now I want a Shop Sabre... Thanks A Looooootttttttt... Seriously, congratulations on your success. Nice to see someone who is dedicated, works hard and deserves their success. High Five!
The idea of using an adjustable height desk in the shop is effing brilliant. In a perfect world, every tool would be at the same height, but it never really works that way. I could easily see using such a desk - maybe just a hand crank one - as an outfeed table for multiple tools.
April, I’ve followed you for years....blown away with your shop! How far you’ve come... love your enthusiasm. I started out with a full size Shopbot in 2008 as a part-timer...moved on to a CAMaster a few years ago and just retired at 73 from my daytime job...jealous of your setup...keep up the inspiring videos!!
From watching you use a chop saw to create a basic garbage box to this. WOW. Watching your skills and company growth makes me feel like such an underachiever.😋
My skillset and tools have grown, but I'm still the same April. I wanted to diversify because I may not always be able to make 3-4 videos a month (which brings in income and bills don't stop). I still do projects with tools but it's smart to plan for the future. Thanks for watching.
@@AprilWilkerson You just addressed the key component that makes following you so enjoyable: you're still the same April. Your drive, ambition and learned skills are a huge motivator for anyone wanting to make woodworking a career. Simply put: 👏👏👏 April. Mahalo 🤙
Your passion about everything comes shining through in many ways! I am very impressed with your making skills, business abilities and most importantly your vision! I have watched you grow and it has been amazing! You are an inspiration to all woman that you are only limited by your dreams, desires and persistence! Peace!
I'm still amazed to see where you came from, quitting your job to getting into woodworking and making youtube videos to this, its truly amazing and an inspiration. I'm trying to get into wood working myself, I'm a GM World Class Master Technian and I cannot wait to get out of my career because of how we as techs/mechanics are treated.
REALLY wonderful idea April! I'm so impressed! Honestly, with how your shop has grown, I have found myself watching fewer of your videos, as they're not as relatable to what I have available as they used to be. BUT I'm so proud of what you've built for yourself and I think equipping yourself to be a businesswoman outside of TH-cam is a natural step forward for your talents. Good luck and God bless!
I am a CNC machinist making landing gears for Boeing and Airbus. It used to take us a full year from start to finish. Today with CNC machines, it takes 6 weeks. Game changer!
Jesus ...hope she knows about you!?!?!! In my mind seeing you here is like her winning an Oscar or something! Good on you man, showing support ....your stock just went even higher with me! Your channel led me down the woodworking path to start with, so you ....led me to her! Between the two of you I can actually make and do things now, beard and beer worthy stuff! Cheers to you both!!
just came across this video, have to say congratulations on your success, I remember you in some videos many years ago, as don't see many vids on wood just the magic of auto play.
Congratulations, you do amazing work. I started my machining career 40 years ago running back then NC machines that ran off of paper tape.I eventually went into engineering and programming CNC’s. I retired as a operations manager of a machine shop. Keep up the good work.
I LOVE seeing the evolution of your business and process. VERY inspiring! I could see a light vacuum-sealing type machine very helpful in your packaging/shipping process.
hola abril.justamente empeze viendo tus videos haciendo esa ducha al aire libre en la casa de tus padres,mira donde estas hoy,eres una mujer que trabajas con pasion y amas tu trabajo a parte eres una gran diseñadora ,y creativa,me pone contento que hayas crecido ahora tienes empleados,urra por tu negocio,saludos desde argentina
Hope you've got room for the expansion of your shop, because it is looking like you might need it with your business growing all the time. Good luck & can't wait to see what's next.
I've watched you from the beginning and I'm constantly amazed at how far you've come. From a business perspective, you're taking a very smart path in diversifying as a hedge against future changes in viewership levels, income streams, etc. Thanks for being an inspiration to my daughters and my grandkids.
Look up a kahn bahn system. Basically, you look at your usage and design your stock requirements and set a point of inventory at which you need to restock. The rate of restocking is also based on usage. The stock level and minimum level are listed on a tag for each part. When a part is depleted under the minimum, it gets added to the production list.
I am a woodworker by hobby and over the years I have watched your videos. I have lived in Houston most of my life but recently moved to Canyon Lake. I have DIYed three cnc's and just a month ago ordered a AVID Pro 5x6 for my shop. Driving into town (New Braunfels) I pass by this business called "The Wood Shed" and often wondered what went on in there. Today I watched this video and was surprised to learn that you are "the wood shed". I could walk to your shop from my house. Your growth from 8 years ago to now is amazing. I hope I can get half as far as you have with my little shop Texas Hill Country Woodworking. Cudos April!
Hello April, I just started watching your videos taking that outdoor shower at your parents' house, look where you are today, you are a woman who works with passion and you love your work, you are a great designer, and creative, it makes me happy that you have grown now you have employees, urra for your business, greetings from Argentina
Congratulations on the CNC shop! I suggest in the future upgrading your dust/chip removal vacuums. You will see a drastic change in tool life when you can get the chips removed as fast as possible.
Not to mention reducing the amount of dust collector maintenance and bag changes. Oneida probably makes a few solutions to replace all those vacs with less equipment for a similar cost.
And next, you'll have big 5 axis machines to carve decorative structural components! Cool stuff! You could build a wooden sailboat from scratch with all of that!
I am contemplating purchasing a CNC to engrave custom logos into 37" wood flags, as well as make custom signs. I am a chaplain at a veteran non-profit and I make the flags and sell them to donate to help our veterans. Your shop is my dream come to life. I would love to be able to ask you some questions about trying to achieve what you have with you business. I simply love your channel, and your amazing knowledge and skills. So glad I found you on here a few years ago.
April, this is amazing. I just got my first CnC machine this week. My dream is to start a small side business out of my basement to build guitar templates. This video is the exact inspiration I needed. I wish you and your team all the success in the world. Keep going!!
Hey April, I was looking at CNC a couple years ago. Now planning to start soon. It is very encouraging to see your video. Hope you continue to do well.
@@overbehindunder, I think that the direction they punch the pieces out keeps the tabs from breaking out the back of the workpiece. If they were lifting the parts out, the breakage would be on the back of the part, it is true.
This is awesome!! I found you through a stair build video, April, and man this is cool. Can't wait to hear more about this! I've always been interested in CNC machines and it's really neat to find these videos.
This awesome 👏👏 Congratulations....I have a deep appreciation for what you have accomplished. I have 40 years working in the aerospace industry. 15 yrs as a machinist & tool and die and fixture builder and the rest as a manufacturing engineer and manager that oversees NC Programmers and the CNC shop that machines our composite materials that create the high end furniture that is in our excutive jets. These machines will allow you to continue to rebrand your business 10 fold. Having quality machinery and people will allow you to focus being creative and bringing more quality products to market. Keep up the great work!!!
Most likely not. The frame appears to be quite similar to the electric desk I bought for my home office, which ranges from 24" to 50", without the casters.
April and her team helped me complete a project requiring CNC equipment when no one else could touch it! Their professionalism and workmanship was beyond compare. I highly recommend them for your next project!
This is really impressive. I first found your channel when you were demonstrating French cleats in a garage/workshop and look at what you've accomplished! Bravo! Keep it coming!
Don't know you, first time watching your video April.. I'm very proud of you. Hope you reach that high level of success you talk about. I know you will, I see the fire in you, I also see in your mom's eyes how proud she is of you...
Just saw this for the first time and I was smiling all the way through. Well over a decade ago, several of us bought a “WaterJet” to mainly glass to support our Art Glass shop and school, but custom metal shapes for others. Touring your shop reminded me of all the hours we spent drawing chalk lines on our shop floor just to make sure we could function smoothly. Thank you for sharing your shop with us, you have done an Amazing job!!! 😃👍👍👍 Be well and be safe to one and all working there.
April, you're absolutely right about the significance of the time saved with automatic tool change. But in the real world it's much more that the 45 seconds hands-on time it takes to make the swap. For a human operator to do it they either have to stand around waiting until the machine needs them or the machine has to stop and wait for the human to be available. In the first case you're wasting a valuable human resource much of the time. In the second case you're holding up production throughput until the operator is available. If the operator drops whatever else they're doing to address the tool change their other task gets interrupted. All of which is inefficient, wasteful and costly.
Nice job. Like others have said, I also got into CNC, back in the '90s. First machine was an Andi 4x8, zoned vacuum bed, 8 tool changer, L shaped multiple drill box, all axis ball screws. It was a good machine but 4x8 is very limiting for store fixture work. I then got a used 5 x10 Komo with only 500 hours on the meter. It came with a 40 hp Quincy vacuum and was a moving table machine. All the bells and whistles. Bigger spindle motor allowing 1 1/2 board to be cut at full speed. Both the Andi & Komo run Fanuc controls, Perfect over thousands of hours of operation. In between I also ended up with a heavy German made IMA point to point. It had great abilities but many problems. 18 position tool changer, 21 spindle drill box, C axis on the main spindle, 4 way drill with rotary, two aggregates. One that can drill with 4 different bits at any rotational angle. The 2nd aggregate was a saw that could saw at any angle and score. The water cooled spindle had flow control problems. The controls had frequent problems. The safety matts were hit or miss. The software needed updating but was terribly expensive. In the end we tore it apart and have been selling pieces.
Thank you for the tour, really inspirational! :) I have two tips / things to consider: 1. you could make vacuum beds yourself for the other cnc tables, which would make the routing station obsolete. It's not super difficult :) 2. you could consider using destaco holding clamps for holding down the sheets, that might be quicker and easier than screwing them down all the time :) Good luck and thank you :)
Very smart young lady. She understands that you have to spend money to make more money. Can see her in a shop twice as large as this soon. Thanks for the great vids.
You can be proud of your success. I liked your channel better though when you were showing projects the average person could do. You are successful and that is wonderful. Just that what you show now is out of reach for most people. Congratulations on your success on your business as well as your apperance on television.
April has always offered a mix of projects that is approachable for most. But, she also is building something outside of TH-cam that will support her long term. She has varied interests and passions and that’s what determines her content. I can’t possibly afford a cnc, 3D printers or laser cutters, but I LOVE watching content showing what they can do. It’s like watching videos about large scale machining. Most of us will never work in that, but it’s still interesting to see in action. Don’t give up on her. She will always have something for any level of maker.
Beautifully put! Thank you Diana! Yes, I have projects of varied difficulty and quite a variety of skill set Viewers. I can't always make just simple projects or just complicated ones. Trying to please everyone is hard.
@@AprilWilkerson Well you know what they say: “you can please some of the TH-cam viewers some of the time, but you can’t please...”. Oh never mind. You’ve been doing this long enough to know you can’t please everyone, and you shouldn’t try. I know recently you’ve shown both an outdoor kitchen space and this CNC video, but also showed the artwork above a bed, shelves in a bathroom and tile backsplash and under cabinet lighting in the kitchen. Those last three are all accessible projects. If I had to offer one suggestion though...more appearances by Totem, Little Bit and the other tail waggers :)
I am glad I remembered this video existed. I am considering starting a small CNC milling side hustle in my barn. If the stars align half-ass correctly in the next 12 months, I will be starting it. I will grow it as far as I can take it. I still enjoy your content.
I'm seeing your channel for the first time and this is my first time seeing your video. I'm inspired because I just started my CNC workshop some months ago and to see you've done this much in 6years. I'm encouraged to keep going. Big Ups April. New fan here.
Super impressive business! Looking at the floor, the amount of mdf dust you're exposed to is a bit of a concern, despite the vacuum systems on all the machines. Do you have an air filtration system setup?
Love that Texas use of “whenever” in place of proper English “when” throughout the video :-). Big congrats on what you’ve built. I’ve been watching you from near the start!
Nothing makes me happier than to see a self actualized person work hard and achieve their dreams. You’re an inspiration
Thanks! I appreciate your kind words. Yes, I work long, hard hours that most don't realize. Thank you for your support and for watching.
100%
Wow! I haven't heard that term in a while. "Self Actualized" that is. It is perfect for April. I just now finished this video and appreciate her sharing some of that self actualized knowledge. I'm at a crossroads in my closet biz. However, I keep my focus on the vision of where I want to be. People like April help fuel me to go to the next level.
You are the perfect example of having a dream / goal and working hard to get there. A “self made entrepreneur “.
You started making videos because you needed to do something & couldn’t find a source for help and made your own videos.
You’ve created a wonderful business from that lack of resources to complete your project.
I’ve watched you form almost the very beginning of your first few small video projects to now a business owner w multiple employees.
You are an outstanding inspiration for many people especially young women who believe they need to rely on men or at least other people etc to do something. They can see that anyone can do these things as long as they have the desire & determination.
It’s been great to watch your success & I wish you the best going forward!
Aw thanks! I'm glad you enjoy my channel and are still along for the ride. Thanks for watching.
As an engineer, I've always enjoyed your precise explanations of work processes, but this has just gone to the next level. 3 cheers for your business acumen and productive mindset!
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching.
Clint... I was thinking how do I express myself after this video... you hit The Nail on the Head...
Beyond my reach... Well Said!!!!.... 110% AGREE!!!!!!!!!
This whole operation is so cool!
Well Said!
Your comment is right on the money. Great video!!
i have a similar story....about 7 years ago i also bought my first cnc. FF to now i have 4 full size tables and 7 lasers (3 different types). Best thing i ever did for my business! and it's FUN going to work every day! congrats on your success!
Thanks for sharing and congrats on your success! Thanks for watching.
@Lemuel Sound Box 💪
Steve and April hope you see my comment 🖐️🖐️🖐️
You the real one Steve..
Meade916
Are you interested in sharing any advice on a new CNC Router purchase.....
To say I am impressed is an understatement. I have a business of 12 people and we've grown over the course of about 8 years. You've done remarkable and it should be applauded. Such a great tour and story!
Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.
Give me viza a am CNC machine operator
Thank you, we have learned a lot from you...we can feel your passion in explain your content about CNC router project in detail..Great job!! ☺🧡
I realized in one of your first videos that you would never go backwards. You've continued to grow as a professional and as a person. Good luck and never look back.
Thank you for your kind words. Thanks for watching.
All the years I have watch you, you have grown so much, but you are still the person that drew me to your channel, Keep being April
Thank you! Yes, except for having learned more things so my skillset is higher, I feel I am still the same April. Thank you for your kind words.
Girl I’ve been watching you from the beginning. When I was a shop teacher I would always play your videos to show my students that they can do what ever they put their mind to. You go girl I’m so proud of you.
Thank you so much!!
One of the best Presentations I have seen in my 63 years. Informative and concise along with great flow. Video quality is great as well. You really can't get much better. Well Done.
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching.
A huge congrats ... I remember back to watching you when you were starting out in that little garage space and tackling various hand tools as you did projects. Then we watched as you built the Wood Shed shop which was a major accomplishment in itself and now this. Just think, those first little waves have turned into over a million video subscribers. Well done and keep enjoying what you do ... we do!
Thanks! Glad you are enjoying my journey. Thanks for watching.
Same. I remember that tiny little garage :) you have come a long way April. :) I enjoy all your videos. I wish i understood how the vaccum system on your laguna and Shop Saber were set up. I know there has to be a way to make a vaccum system for the other two.
@@AprilWilkerson And I still get a thrill when I remember the video where you announced you had quit your job and were going to throw all your cards onto the table - hire yourself as a video producer. No trace of "oh what the hell have i done!!!!??" in your manner - you were confident and self-assured - as you have remained. I suspect one of the most dangerous places on earth would be standing between you and a goal you want to achieve. As someone who left a high paying corporate job in 1996 to employ myself as a web developer, I can appreciate some of the highs and lows you've felt along the way. It's been exciting for us to come along with you. Thank you April for sharing it with us. Long may the adventure continue!!!
@@AprilWilkerson From the first moment I laid eyes on you, I knew that you were special!
@@afpwebworks Thank you for your kind words.
I love love this so much. I built my first CNC in 2014. It was so hard because I knew nothing.
I'm really impress that this young woman not only started with a small cutter but then grew it into this large business.
Amurica!!! Love it!
April Industries is growing by leaps and bounds.Congratulations!
Wow lost track of you and saw this...Way to go April !!!
I have been self employed since i was 19 yrs old, so over 50 yrs now and it's been either "feast or famine" but i never begrudged the hours of work where i made no pay because i knew i was creating something that would succeed or fail solely due to my efforts and I would reap the benefits of my labor not someone else. Be conservative in your personal splurges, diversify your talents and "save for a rainy day" and you too will be able to retire early a millionaire, like me. Good Luck!
From NZ... CNC is subject I know Nothing about... so I thought it was about time I learned something... and what better place to come and be impressed by than April's Little Shop on the Prairie..or wherever it is . Great looking system and team. Behind every great Woman there's a great Mum.
Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Yes, my Mom is great to be sure. Thanks for watching.
April I've been a fan of yours for a while, but after seeing this PRO CNC shop video, my fandom has reached critical mass. I started my own woodworking company in 2020 and I'm on the road to building something great. I walk away truly inspired by what you've accomplished here.
Thanks and the best of luck for your company also! Thanks for watching.
Congratulations April. You are the example of dedication, commitment and entrepreneurship that I want to follow. Keep it up and wish and busy, more profitable and growing 2022.
Thank you so much! Glad you enjoyed the video.
Automatic pallet changer has increased our production like you wouldn’t believe, the machines are running constantly, change out A pallet whiles B pallet is being cut, machine automatic swaps a and b pallet and starts cutting a pallet. We run high volume steel and aluminum firearms parts but with 4x8 sheets like you run a APC system would definitely be worth looking into plus depending on run times you could even run the machines dark, we work 10 hour days but since a pallet takes 4.5 hours plus to run we run the machines dark and if a tool breaks the sensors catch it
Hi April. This is Ramesh from India .Great going. It was really a pleasure seeing your CNC MACHINE SHOP. FANTASTIC WORK & Great workmanship. You have grown from 1 machine to three machines which is commendable. You really inspire me and also I watch all your videos without fail. GO GO GIRL POWER. I wish you more & more success and I pray to almighty that you have another 30 machines from the present 3.
Well done! I'm retired now but shared your passion for CNC for decades, as an operator, programmer, and shop manager. Very enjoyable video!
Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.
I bumped into your channel by luck. I went to your channel page after watching this video. WOW!!! What an adventure you have had. I just browsed your videos from oldest to newest and all I can say is WOW!! I'm a subscriber now, lost in the 1.43 Million who think you are amazing. Luvin' it!!
Aw thanks! Welcome aboard and hope you enjoy my Channel. Thanks for watching.
It's amazing. I started watching this channel back when you had a home shop and starting learning the pros and cons of pocket holes...
April watching your video was like going down memory lane. I started programing wood routers back in 1983 at SeaRay boats in Oxford Michigan. I have since programed and run just about every CnC mill or lathe you can think of so I applaud you for being such a great spokes person for the industry. Great Job :)
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching.
I think what always surprises me, and that I always under-estimate, is the market for something like this. I wouldn't have really imagined there was enough sales in a template business to support 6 people and some expensive machinery.
Her TH-cam channel/audience doubles as good targeted advertising!
i couldnt sell a gold bar for a buck. lol congrats awesome job
Me neither, looks like there is a bigger market than we thought.
Its a pleasure to see a young person self educating, and becomiing expert at running a "machine shop" that can wotk with sheets of wood and processed material !
Jacob has been a brilliant addition to your crew. And your mom is gold!
I'll bet Router Bob has a huge smile on his face seeing one of his machines in your shop. It is amazing how far you've come from that little shop in the garage! Keep reaching April!
Sure does! Our team is honored to work with April!
Beautiful, smart, AND driven! Way to go April! As a custom trim guy for 25 years and aspiring furniture maker, and now home builder, I have been enjoying watching your videos for years. An inspiring and great person you are. Thanks!
First time viewer. As a retired carpenter I really appreciate your passion for your trade and the ability to present your operation so clearly.
I appreciate that! Thanks for watching.
Hey April and team, Your beginning content (before your first cnc machine) helped push me to finding out what my passion is and I have now expanded into my own powder coating shop. Seeing others, like you, finding their passions and flourishing is what really helped me. Congrats on everything you deserve it!
That is awesome! Thank you for your kind words.
Holy crap April, you've come a LONG way from where you started...hats off and much respect. You got serious drive and it shows!
I remember when you did not have a place to work and you took over your husbands garage. You came a long way.
This is my 1st introduction to you. I just want to say your story is very True American inspiration.
I've watched this channel from the very beginning and to see how far you've come, the success you've achieved is nothing short of inspirational. Bravo April you are an inspiration to us small TH-cam channels just starting out ❤
Thanks for staying along for the ride. It's been a crazy journey to be sure. Thanks for watching.
Same here. It started off in a shed and Harbor Freight hacks, and now it's a full-fledged enterprise and TV gig. Having so much pride as a viewer feels bizarre but wonderful to experience.
April, I have watched i think every video you have made. Even in the beginning they were spot on and informative.. you have just kicked the ball through the goal post recently.. and your genuine smile tells you are genuine....best to you going foward
Thank you so much!
I’ve been watching you seen your home fence rebuild and addition to your roof near the pool. It’s has always been a pleasant experienced watching and learning from you. Thank you April.
Thank you! And thank you for staying along for the ride.
I am speechless. I remember one of your first vids where you made a cement small cement slab and now you're working on you're CNC business? I've also seen your other vids the like the one where you built the patio cover and the one you built some outside stairs. You do it all your DIY projects with a smile and positive I can do it attitude. Way to go April.
Thank you very much! And thanks for still being along for the ride.
April,
I don't know how you managed to get where you are , but you've done an amazing job of setting youself up !
You are definitely an inspiration to me !
Love your channel !
Thanks! It's been quite the journey but an exciting one. Thanks for watching.
Just watched for the 1st time. WOW, that was AWESOME! The machines, the Business and most of all, the passion and vision of April Wilkerson !
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it!
Besides all that you've accomplished I love the fact that your mom has a job in your business.
Way to Go Girl!!👍
This is exactly what I wanted to do 10 years ago. Still haven't got a shed big enough for it. Guess I need to think smaller and build up. Thanks April for your inspirational video.
Make it happen!!
So nice to see people working together, a great team you have. I miss those days of team work. It seems to be a lost art in today's world.
Oh GREAT! Now I want a Shop Sabre... Thanks A Looooootttttttt...
Seriously, congratulations on your success. Nice to see someone who is dedicated, works hard and deserves their success. High Five!
Thank you for your kind words. Thanks for watching.
The idea of using an adjustable height desk in the shop is effing brilliant. In a perfect world, every tool would be at the same height, but it never really works that way. I could easily see using such a desk - maybe just a hand crank one - as an outfeed table for multiple tools.
i'm sitting here watching this video at the same adjustable desk she used and my jaw just dropped. such a good idea!
April, I’ve followed you for years....blown away with your shop! How far you’ve come... love your enthusiasm. I started out with a full size Shopbot in 2008 as a part-timer...moved on to a CAMaster a few years ago and just retired at 73 from my daytime job...jealous of your setup...keep up the inspiring videos!!
Thank you! And thanks for still being along for the ride.
You all certainly have your act together. Congrats
From watching you use a chop saw to create a basic garbage box to this. WOW.
Watching your skills and company growth makes me feel like such an underachiever.😋
My skillset and tools have grown, but I'm still the same April. I wanted to diversify because I may not always be able to make 3-4 videos a month (which brings in income and bills don't stop). I still do projects with tools but it's smart to plan for the future. Thanks for watching.
@@AprilWilkerson
You just addressed the key component that makes following you so enjoyable: you're still the same April.
Your drive, ambition and learned skills are a huge motivator for anyone wanting to make woodworking a career.
Simply put: 👏👏👏 April.
Mahalo 🤙
Your passion about everything comes shining through in many ways!
I am very impressed with your making skills, business abilities and most importantly your vision! I have watched you grow and it has been amazing!
You are an inspiration to all woman that you are only limited by your dreams, desires and persistence! Peace!
Thank you for your kind words and for watching. :)
I'm still amazed to see where you came from, quitting your job to getting into woodworking and making youtube videos to this, its truly amazing and an inspiration. I'm trying to get into wood working myself, I'm a GM World Class Master Technian and I cannot wait to get out of my career because of how we as techs/mechanics are treated.
Yep I got out in 1994 after ten years as an ASE Master Tech... Went back to college and never looked back..
REALLY wonderful idea April! I'm so impressed! Honestly, with how your shop has grown, I have found myself watching fewer of your videos, as they're not as relatable to what I have available as they used to be. BUT I'm so proud of what you've built for yourself and I think equipping yourself to be a businesswoman outside of TH-cam is a natural step forward for your talents. Good luck and God bless!
I am a CNC machinist making landing gears for Boeing and Airbus. It used to take us a full year from start to finish. Today with CNC machines, it takes 6 weeks. Game changer!
Awesome! Thanks for sharing that and for watching.
I applaud you April! I have always been a fan, keep up the great work!
I absolutely love your channel and output! Glad to see you supporting other creators!
Jesus ...hope she knows about you!?!?!! In my mind seeing you here is like her winning an Oscar or something! Good on you man, showing support ....your stock just went even higher with me! Your channel led me down the woodworking path to start with, so you ....led me to her! Between the two of you I can actually make and do things now, beard and beer worthy stuff! Cheers to you both!!
The boards are absolutely beautiful but I never understood what you called them. Also, what are they used for?
just came across this video, have to say congratulations on your success, I remember you in some videos many years ago, as don't see many vids on wood just the magic of auto play.
Congratulations, you do amazing work. I started my machining career 40 years ago running back then NC machines that ran off of paper tape.I eventually went into engineering and programming CNC’s. I retired as a operations manager of a machine shop. Keep up the good work.
hope you are still active in retirement .Those are some great skills to have
I love the adjustable desk trick
I LOVE seeing the evolution of your business and process. VERY inspiring! I could see a light vacuum-sealing type machine very helpful in your packaging/shipping process.
hola abril.justamente empeze viendo tus videos haciendo esa ducha al aire libre en la casa de tus padres,mira donde estas hoy,eres una mujer que trabajas con pasion y amas tu trabajo a parte eres una gran diseñadora ,y creativa,me pone contento que hayas crecido ahora tienes empleados,urra por tu negocio,saludos desde argentina
Hope you've got room for the expansion of your shop, because it is looking like you might need it with your business growing all the time. Good luck & can't wait to see what's next.
Thanks!
I cant stop watching this video. So amazing. I wish I could visit this workshop. April you are unique. Keep up. I had learnt so many lessons.
Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching.
I've watched you from the beginning and I'm constantly amazed at how far you've come. From a business perspective, you're taking a very smart path in diversifying as a hedge against future changes in viewership levels, income streams, etc. Thanks for being an inspiration to my daughters and my grandkids.
I appreciate that! Thank you for watching.
@@AprilWilkerson You're quite welcome. Have an awesome day. 👍
April, the amount of energy you possess is incredible. We have watched you start in a garage and then build your dream shop! Just WOW!
Thank you for your kind words and thanks for watching.
@@AprilWilkerson You are always welcome
Look up a kahn bahn system. Basically, you look at your usage and design your stock requirements and set a point of inventory at which you need to restock. The rate of restocking is also based on usage. The stock level and minimum level are listed on a tag for each part. When a part is depleted under the minimum, it gets added to the production list.
Another vote for kanban! Lean manufacturing principles will streamline the shop in a hurry.
That's basically what she's doing with stacking it on the rack.
I am a woodworker by hobby and over the years I have watched your videos. I have lived in Houston most of my life but recently moved to Canyon Lake. I have DIYed three cnc's and just a month ago ordered a AVID Pro 5x6 for my shop. Driving into town (New Braunfels) I pass by this business called "The Wood Shed" and often wondered what went on in there. Today I watched this video and was surprised to learn that you are "the wood shed". I could walk to your shop from my house. Your growth from 8 years ago to now is amazing. I hope I can get half as far as you have with my little shop Texas Hill Country Woodworking. Cudos April!
Awesome! Welcome to Canyon Lake! Woodworking is a great community to be sure. Thank you for your kind words and for watching.
April, you are a very smart, creative lady with a real passion for what you do. Great to see you creating a business like this.
Hello April, I just started watching your videos taking that outdoor shower at your parents' house, look where you are today, you are a woman who works with passion and you love your work, you are a great designer, and creative, it makes me happy that you have grown now you have employees, urra for your business, greetings from Argentina
Thank you! I'm glad you enjoy my Channel. Thanks for watching.
Congratulations on the CNC shop! I suggest in the future upgrading your dust/chip removal vacuums. You will see a drastic change in tool life when you can get the chips removed as fast as possible.
Not to mention reducing the amount of dust collector maintenance and bag changes. Oneida probably makes a few solutions to replace all those vacs with less equipment for a similar cost.
This is a textbook example of the start and growth of a small business and putting people to work. Keep up the good work!!
Thank you so much! Thanks for watching.
And next, you'll have big 5 axis machines to carve decorative structural components! Cool stuff! You could build a wooden sailboat from scratch with all of that!
I am contemplating purchasing a CNC to engrave custom logos into 37" wood flags, as well as make custom signs. I am a chaplain at a veteran non-profit and I make the flags and sell them to donate to help our veterans. Your shop is my dream come to life. I would love to be able to ask you some questions about trying to achieve what you have with you business. I simply love your channel, and your amazing knowledge and skills. So glad I found you on here a few years ago.
April, this is amazing. I just got my first CnC machine this week. My dream is to start a small side business out of my basement to build guitar templates. This video is the exact inspiration I needed. I wish you and your team all the success in the world. Keep going!!
I met a yukele builder in Miami who wanted a CNC to build certain parts. I love Vectric software. Good luck as a luthier.
Hey April, I was looking at CNC a couple years ago. Now planning to start soon. It is very encouraging to see your video. Hope you continue to do well.
Very, very, VERY impressive!
Way to go April !
Great work.. Young people (KIDS) need to see this.. April shows what a vision, hard work, and dedication can achieve.
Aw thanks! Glad you enjoyed the video.
Try an oscillating tool to remove those tabs - super clean, fast and precise
Their method is much faster.
@@woodfinchcrafts7267 of course, but it also blows out the back, not always what you're after.
@@overbehindunder, I think that the direction they punch the pieces out keeps the tabs from breaking out the back of the workpiece. If they were lifting the parts out, the breakage would be on the back of the part, it is true.
Your enthusiasm is contagious. Thanks for the insight.
I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching!
This is awesome!! I found you through a stair build video, April, and man this is cool. Can't wait to hear more about this! I've always been interested in CNC machines and it's really neat to find these videos.
This awesome 👏👏 Congratulations....I have a deep appreciation for what you have accomplished. I have 40 years working in the aerospace industry. 15 yrs as a machinist & tool and die and fixture builder and the rest as a manufacturing engineer and manager that oversees NC Programmers and the CNC shop that machines our composite materials that create the high end furniture that is in our excutive jets. These machines will allow you to continue to rebrand your business 10 fold. Having quality machinery and people will allow you to focus being creative and bringing more quality products to market. Keep up the great work!!!
Give Jacob a raise - that adjustable table is genius. Did he have to extend the drive screw?
Most likely not. The frame appears to be quite similar to the electric desk I bought for my home office, which ranges from 24" to 50", without the casters.
April and her team helped me complete a project requiring CNC equipment when no one else could touch it! Their professionalism and workmanship was beyond compare. I highly recommend them for your next project!
Thank you for your kind words. Thanks for watching.
Your definitely my inspiration, I 've enjoyed watching you grow. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
Thank you for staying along for the ride. Thanks for watching.
@@AprilWilkerson i
I'm glad I stumbled across your channel great content. I do Upholstery, So I am looking into cnc fabric cutters
Awesome! Glad you enjoy my Channel. Thanks for watching.
This is really impressive. I first found your channel when you were demonstrating French cleats in a garage/workshop and look at what you've accomplished! Bravo! Keep it coming!
Don't know you, first time watching your video April.. I'm very proud of you. Hope you reach that high level of success you talk about. I know you will, I see the fire in you, I also see in your mom's eyes how proud she is of you...
Thank you for your kind words. Yes, my Parents are very proud of me. :) Thanks for watching.
This is awesome. I had no idea you did any of this.
Just saw this for the first time and I was smiling all the way through.
Well over a decade ago, several of us bought a “WaterJet” to mainly glass to support our Art Glass shop and school, but custom metal shapes for others.
Touring your shop reminded me of all the hours we spent drawing chalk lines on our shop floor just to make sure we could function smoothly.
Thank you for sharing your shop with us, you have done an Amazing job!!! 😃👍👍👍
Be well and be safe to one and all working there.
April, you're absolutely right about the significance of the time saved with automatic tool change. But in the real world it's much more that the 45 seconds hands-on time it takes to make the swap.
For a human operator to do it they either have to stand around waiting until the machine needs them or the machine has to stop and wait for the human to be available. In the first case you're wasting a valuable human resource much of the time. In the second case you're holding up production throughput until the operator is available. If the operator drops whatever else they're doing to address the tool change their other task gets interrupted. All of which is inefficient, wasteful and costly.
Nice job.
Like others have said, I also got into CNC, back in the '90s. First machine was an Andi 4x8, zoned vacuum bed, 8 tool changer, L shaped multiple drill box, all axis ball screws. It was a good machine but 4x8 is very limiting for store fixture work. I then got a used 5 x10 Komo with only 500 hours on the meter. It came with a 40 hp Quincy vacuum and was a moving table machine. All the bells and whistles. Bigger spindle motor allowing 1 1/2 board to be cut at full speed. Both the Andi & Komo run Fanuc controls, Perfect over thousands of hours of operation.
In between I also ended up with a heavy German made IMA point to point. It had great abilities but many problems. 18 position tool changer, 21 spindle drill box, C axis on the main spindle, 4 way drill with rotary, two aggregates. One that can drill with 4 different bits at any rotational angle. The 2nd aggregate was a saw that could saw at any angle and score. The water cooled spindle had flow control problems. The controls had frequent problems. The safety matts were hit or miss. The software needed updating but was terribly expensive. In the end we tore it apart and have been selling pieces.
Thank you for the tour, really inspirational! :)
I have two tips / things to consider: 1. you could make vacuum beds yourself for the other cnc tables, which would make the routing station obsolete. It's not super difficult :) 2. you could consider using destaco holding clamps for holding down the sheets, that might be quicker and easier than screwing them down all the time :)
Good luck and thank you :)
It takes a very special person to have the insight and drive to develop and run a business, obviously you are meant for success. Well done.
Thank you! It has been quite the journey. Thanks for watching.
Hey Amy, the shelving system that Jake is hanging on do you have plans for those and can sell them? These would be great for displaying my Lego sets.
Who is this “Amy”?
*April
Lol those would be overkill for Legos lol.
Very smart young lady. She understands that you have to spend money to make more money. Can see her in a shop twice as large as this soon. Thanks for the great vids.
You can be proud of your success. I liked your channel better though when you were showing projects the average person could do. You are successful and that is wonderful. Just that what you show now is out of reach for most people. Congratulations on your success on your business as well as your apperance on television.
April has always offered a mix of projects that is approachable for most. But, she also is building something outside of TH-cam that will support her long term. She has varied interests and passions and that’s what determines her content. I can’t possibly afford a cnc, 3D printers or laser cutters, but I LOVE watching content showing what they can do. It’s like watching videos about large scale machining. Most of us will never work in that, but it’s still interesting to see in action. Don’t give up on her. She will always have something for any level of maker.
Beautifully put! Thank you Diana! Yes, I have projects of varied difficulty and quite a variety of skill set Viewers. I can't always make just simple projects or just complicated ones. Trying to please everyone is hard.
@@AprilWilkerson Well you know what they say: “you can please some of the TH-cam viewers some of the time, but you can’t please...”. Oh never mind. You’ve been doing this long enough to know you can’t please everyone, and you shouldn’t try. I know recently you’ve shown both an outdoor kitchen space and this CNC video, but also showed the artwork above a bed, shelves in a bathroom and tile backsplash and under cabinet lighting in the kitchen. Those last three are all accessible projects. If I had to offer one suggestion though...more appearances by Totem, Little Bit and the other tail waggers :)
I am glad I remembered this video existed. I am considering starting a small CNC milling side hustle in my barn. If the stars align half-ass correctly in the next 12 months, I will be starting it. I will grow it as far as I can take it. I still enjoy your content.
I recommend rotary air clamps instead of the individual clamps on the machine that holds the sheets down one button instead of a bunch of screws
I'm seeing your channel for the first time and this is my first time seeing your video. I'm inspired because I just started my CNC workshop some months ago and to see you've done this much in 6years. I'm encouraged to keep going. Big Ups April. New fan here.
Five years from now - April: "This is how I took down Home Depot and Lowes, and that's why there is a AW store in every town"
I mean, she has the mill... I don't think she could make as warped wood pieces if she tried to make a wooden pretzel.
repurposing that standing desk.... BRILIANT!!
Super impressive business! Looking at the floor, the amount of mdf dust you're exposed to is a bit of a concern, despite the vacuum systems on all the machines. Do you have an air filtration system setup?
Love that Texas use of “whenever” in place of proper English “when” throughout the video :-). Big congrats on what you’ve built. I’ve been watching you from near the start!