One step at a time · 4 lessons
Get started with a CNC machine
CNC means computer numerical control: a computer directs the cutting machine. Start by connecting the drawing to the real piece of wood. Learn how to hold it securely, choose the starting point and understand cutting speed before planning a test with suitable instruction.
Read at your own pace. You can open any lesson and return whenever you need it.
New to the machine?
Start with the complete CNC 101 course.
Choose equipment, plan the complete budget, learn the setup and work toward your first two projects. Then return here for settings and job pricing.
Explore all 12 beginner lessons →Make it useful
Your practice goal
Prepare a test-part plan, record the setup and work out the job cost.
Before you begin
What to have nearby
Your machine and cutting-bit instructions, a drawing and somewhere to record your checks.
Questions this path helps answer
- Where should the cut begin?
- How do I hold the wood still?
- What do cutting speed and chip size mean?
Your next steps
Start here · 5 min reading, plus practice
Match your drawing to the machine
Align stock dimensions, toolpaths and work zero before running a CNC job.
Open lesson →Build your skills · 5 min reading, plus practice
Hold the wood and set a starting point
Keep the workpiece and offcuts secure throughout the cut, including when parts separate.
Open lesson →Build your skills · 5 min reading, plus practice
Understand cutting speed and chip size
Calculate nominal chip load and understand which setup details the formula leaves out.
Open lesson →Go further · 5 min reading, plus practice
Work out the cost of a CNC job
Allocate programming, setup, machine time and labor across the order.
Open lesson →
Keep exploring
Looking for a quick explanation or a different skill?