Bits
Upcut spiral bits
Clear chips upward from pockets and grooves while accounting for top-edge tear-out and lifting forces.
Workshop reference / 13 guides
Choose the right bit and setup.
Start with a shape you want to make. See how a cutting bit creates it, understand the names and learn what to check before using it.
Ready to choose a bit?
Compare seven practical examples by job, material and construction, with manufacturer sources and buying links.
Explore recommended bitsStart with the result
What would you like the wood to look like?
A bit is a cutting tool. Its shape helps determine the shape left in the wood. Explore an example before learning its technical name.
Straight bits & flat-end cutters
Make a place for a shelf to sit
A flat-end cutter can leave a flat-bottom channel. Its round shape still leaves curved inside corners.
Draw a channel for an actual measured shelf thickness, then plan a matching sample before the final piece.
Notice this: Check the fit, floor and corners separately. The bit's cutting width is not always its holding diameter.
Understand this bit and its setup →Concept illustrations, not exact product profiles or operating instructions. Confirm compatibility and limits with the tool and machine makers.
13 guides
Bits
Downcut spiral bits
Protect the top face of a panel while making room for chips below the cut.
Bits
Compression bits & transition length
Understand where the upcut tip changes to downcut—and why shallow passes may still tear the top face.
Bits
Straight bits & flat-end cutters
Plan flat-bottom grooves and pockets without confusing cutting diameter, shank size or plunge capability.
Bits
Ball-nose & tapered ball-nose bits
Choose a rounded tip for 3D contours and understand what stepover can—and cannot—predict.
Bits
V-bits & engraving tools
Match included angle and tip geometry to lettering, grooves and controlled engraving depth.
Bits
Spoilboard surfacing cutters
Plan a wide, shallow surfacing path with clearance for the entire cutter body.
Bits
Flush-trim & bearing-guided bits
Copy a template or bring an edge flush while keeping the bearing on a reliable reference.
Bits
Roundover & edge-profile bits
Understand profile radius, bearing contact and height before shaping a finished edge.
Setup
Collets, insertion & tool stickout
Separate the length held inside the collet from the length exposed below it.
Setup
Material setup, workholding & Z zero
Make the physical stock, tool and coordinate reference agree with the CAM job.
Laser
Laser lenses, focus & nozzle clearance
Identify the optics and focal reference before testing line quality or cut settings.
Laser
Laser material tests, kerf & repeatable settings
Turn a measured test coupon into a documented setting for a known material and machine.
Plan a CNC job from your requirementsUnderstand how the bit is heldMatch the material and starting pointYour saved settingsDesign an air extraction system
Keep a record of what works
Read the matching guide, use measured inputs in the calculator, then save your own documented setup and test result. Guidance stays public; saved settings stay in your account.