Vancouver Hack Space

The links on this page are only suggestions; always do your own research and ensure any resources are fit for your purposes.

Software:
- FreeCAD: free and open source CAD software which can make models for CNC. FreeCAD also has a built-in CAM module.
- OpenSCAD: another free and open source CAD software, also fully capable of creating CNC-ready models. It is entirely parametric.
- Autodesk Fusion 360 (Personal Use License): commercial software, free to use under a restrictive license. One of the industry standard options in entry-level CAD, with integrated CAM. This is the software which will be used for the CAM portion of the CNC training.
- Onshape: commercial software, free to use under a restrictive license.
- Also consider: Rhino/Grasshopper; Plasticity, Solidworks
Tutorials:
- CAD vs Mesh Modelling

For training, speak with the instructor to see if they are able to provide tools.
There are limited communal tools available to use with the CNC, and due to the fact you must define your tools in software quite early in the process, it makes a lot of sense to have your own. The tools below are just one possible starter setup; you don’t need much to get started, and it’s a good idea to have spares in case of tool breakage. Always make your own choices, especially on online marketplaces, as none of these suggestions are verified nor are these affiliate links.
- Set of ER11 collets
- 3 mm flat endmill
- 6 mm flat endmill
- 6 mm ball endmill
Tooling for CNC is a very large, very in-depth topic which will not be covered in the course. You should know about basics types and how to decide between them.
- Upcut: Flute design pushes material upwards; deep cuts with efficient material removal, can cause tearouts on upper edges
- Downcut: Flute design pushes material downwards; good for shallow cuts, cuts in material which can splinter, but can leave a poor bottom finish due to material buildup.
- Compression: Combination of up- and downcut, with the lowest portion designed to upcut and clear the bottom, and the upper part pulling downward to reduce tearout.
- Straight: Traditional router-style bit; not ideal for CNC use due to poor chip clearing characteristics, but these bits offer profiles and options not otherwise available.