12 lessons · About 36 min reading, plus practice
CNC 101
From choosing your first CNC router to making a name plaque and a shallow tray. Learn bits, software, holding, settings and economical practice.
Explore CNC 101 →No machine needed to start learning
From “what is it?”
to “I made this.”
Learn what to buy, what can wait, how to prepare and how to make a first useful project. Every lesson explains the words, gives you something practical to do and includes a way to avoid wasted money or material.
From curious to your first project
Two complete beginner courses.
12 lessons · About 36 min reading, plus practice
Laser 101
Choose between diode, CO₂ and fiber, understand heads and lenses, prepare known materials and make your first engraved and cut tags.
Explore Laser 101 →Which kind of making interests you?
| Your idea | Explore first | Why |
|---|---|---|
| A recessed tray, shaped furniture part or template | CNC 101 | A rotating bit removes material to create pockets, edges and shapes. |
| An engraved tag or cut decorative sheet | Laser 101 | Light makes a mark or cuts suitable material; the source type matters. |
| Clear acrylic products or metal marking | Compare laser types | Choose around material and operation before comparing wattage. |
Practice the idea before spending on the material.
Design and preview first. Use known, safely held offcuts to learn the workflow, then a small matching sample to check the real job. Save the sample and its settings so the next project starts with what you learned.