The free, open-source, cross-platform program InkScape (similar to Adobe Illustrator) also has a trace function in it that works quite well to convert raster images to vector images. You can then export the result to SVG and import it into Carbide Create.
I’ve been using it with a lot of success. It takes a little trial and error to get the settings right, and the resulting vectors generally have way too many points (use the simplify option after tracing), but it works extremely well for me.
If you want to do 3D work, MeshCAM is a great investment.
The two machines are wonderfully complementary — I do small metal bits on my Nomad for larger projects which are cut on my Shapeoko, and make replacement wasteboards and fixtures for the Nomad using my Shapeoko.
@tchad thanks I’ve heard some good things about inkscape so I’ll for sure be giving it a look!
@WillAdams but you dont need the nomad right? Anything the nomad can do…as long as u have mesh cam the SO3 XXL can do the same or better?
Just can’t wait till tomorrow I hope it gets here tomorrow so I can start playing with it!
Pretty much, the Shapeoko can do the same things the Nomad does — mostly I use the Nomad 'cause it’s more convenient, quieter, and has nifty workholding options which I haven’t yet replicated on my Shapeoko. — best argument for this is @RichCournoyer’s stainless steel watch case:
I second @WillAdams’s recommendation for MeshCAM for 3D work (I only have a Shapeoko 3, and MeshCAM works great for it.)
I have both VCarve and MeshCAM, and use them for different things. MeshCAM is great if you have an existing 3D file and just want to cut it with minimal fuss. It has basically no options to edit your 3D file though, so your workflow needs a different 3D editing program before you get to MeshCAM.
VCarve has a great 2D / 2.5D workflow that is AWESOME for creative projects, and has tons of editing capabilities in 2D / 2.5D. It will also let you combine 2D / 2.5D designs with 3D designs and edit a lot of it in the program. Like MeshCAM, it won’t let you edit the 3D mesh in the program though (you have to upgrade to the much more expensive Aspire to be able to do that).
If I was going to buy just one of the two programs, I’d probably get VCarve, but I do more in 2.5D than in 3D. If my usage was more 3D, then I’d swap my recommendation.
I’m not the ‘busiest’ of CNC hobbyists, but I haven’t really used Meshcam since I got VCarve Pro. The latter produces very respectable 3D toolpaths, and does so much more. Meshcam isn’t design software, it just produces toolpaths from preexisting models.
And the collection of 2D/3D clipart, etc that comes with VCarve can get you making really cool stuff right away, it totally redefines “quick and dirty”. I designed this project from scratch in about fifteen minutes using only what came with the Vectric software:
It is like using PowerPoint to slap together a professional-looking presentation in a few minutes; but then you generate toolpaths, run the job, and get an object.
One thing Meshcam does better is defining machining/keepout regions, and (though I guess the newest version of VCarve does this) two-sided machining. Meshcam is great software but it basically does one thing only: generate toolpaths from a preexisting design.
Meshcam is “free” with Nomad but not with Shapeoko. I owned my Nomad for about a year before I bought my Shapeoko XXL. If a job is small enough for Nomad and accuracy is important at all I’ll usually use Nomad: it is just so much less “fussy” than Shapeoko, even if you could technically tweak the latter to do the same job faster (more powerful spindle) with almost the same accuracy. I’ve easily spent as much time fiddling with the Shapeoko as I have making projects; while Nomad pretty much just works. But the XXL is a monster!
They are all pretty amazing tools for the price. It just depends on exactly what you are trying to accomplish.
Thanks guys for all the info…I’ve ordered some bits and got a email on Monday saying XXL was on back order waiting for steel. Got email today that it shipped out today and expected to arrive Friday so Super excited about that! Can’t wait!
Been looking at different software’s I really like the vcarve just not sure how much difference between desktop and pro version…if not much I’m gonna go with desktop. Would love Aspire but my gosh thats expensive lol maybe 1 day!
Also 1 last question this probably complete stupid one but here it goes. What exactly is different between 2d 2.5 and 3d? …I looked it up on youtube but no1 really explains well! Thanks everyone
The main limitation of VCarve Desktop is the size of the job, IIRC. I’m pretty sure - but do double check - that you need Pro to use the full workspace of the XXL.
Oh yea I think your right about that. I do think I remember seeing I think only 24x24 work area in desktop…so yea thats not gonna work lol
GaylonR get Desktop, you can upgrade later if necessary for the cost difference. IMHO Vectric Vcarve is the greatest thing since sliced bread!
Ok I was wondering that if you could just pay difference to get the pro…not have to pay all over again…thanks @patonclover! In the desktop version do they have dimension tool like Aspire?
Unsure about how it works in Aspire but in Desktop there certainly is a dimension tool. There is also a measurement tool that is just momentary in action, it only temporarily records the measurement. The Dimension tool works as one would expect a 2D CAD package to work. Why not download a trial copy and take it for a spin.
@patonclover yes I’m going to download the trail for sure just want to get my machine put together first hopefully Friday! Then I’ll be on my way to trying out the software! Thanks
Vectric has a welI-reasoned upgrade policy. Moving from one product to the next is pretty much just the cost difference
I’ve been learning a lot lately, about 3D modeling (making reliefs-.stl files), and I wanted to pass on something I wish I would have learned years ago.
There are FREE 3D modeling softwares with Amazing capabilities.
These will save .STL files, and others, that can be opened in meshcam, and probably some free cams too.
The point is, a CAM that tries to do the same modeling, well close, is $1000’s of dollars.
Blender, and Sculptris is FREE!
I’m amazed, and feel ignorant, sometimes 
Not to mention 3D scanners (good ones not free)
Excellent recommendations! I moved Sculptris up to https://www.shapeoko.com/wiki/index.php/CAD#3D — If you could write up a brief description, I’d be glad to move it into the table (or if you want an account on the wiki to do it yourself, just send me a PM w/ your e-mail address requesting that).
Sculptris is a free 3D modeling program by Pixologic (The makers of ZBrush), that many find to be a good starting point for learning 3D modeling.
It is also well liked for it’s efficient use of computer resources, and works well with laptops, or older operating systems, like Windows XP SP2, for example.
Done. Thanks!
If anyone else has used any of the apps listed at: https://www.shapeoko.com/wiki/index.php/CAD#Additional_programs_which_may_merit_investigation — please let me know and we’ll move them to the appropriate point with whatever information you wish to share.
Got my machine today!! Its all together and tried to run hello world but computer wouldn’t download it or something ido weird so gonna try again tomorrow its late. But did get another little pic drawn with the sharpie and for most part went fine…make little popping noise when moves in a certain direction gonna look into that more also. Should not be any noise correct?
The double side tape provided not holding down the drag chain well at all on the gantry…any suggestions to use?
Little bit of drag chain discussion here
Popping noise? springs maybe?
How was the Hello world test setup with the paper? do you have some extra wood under the paper to bring it up? it may be going to low and coming off the vwheel rails