Is anyone here using their CNC machine to add their name/signature/date/etc. to their projects? It seems that one should be able to turn some projects over and add a “signature” to it. I am mostly thinking of adding some identifier to my projects that I am giving to my children and grandkids, etc.
If so, what suggestions could you offer. I would think either a 30 degree or smaller (18 or 15 degree) V-bit might work, but would appreciate some community feedback. I’d like to customize the “signatures”, so a branding iron is not practical and a hand signature will not work.
You could mill your own signature out of brass for a branding iron and use that? I thought C3D sold the kits? That’s my plan.
The other option is to use another program like Inkscape for your signature by scanning it in, then import into CC as SVG. Make this engraving first on the bottom of project then flip over for final machining.
Tim … I am looking to also add the date (MM/YY) to the signature as well as customizing it … ie: “Grandpa George”, “Grandpa”, “Dad”, etc., so a branding iron limits me too much. Just thinkint that the children/etc. would like a keepsake. Thanks.
Got it, I was trying to fix the signature problem. I plan on doing both. Some branding and just some carving. I will carve the back side first, this will prevent a potential unstable surface when flipped over based what ever crazy uneven design is on the front side. I have used this methodology when using the Shaper Origin,
My machine (5 Pro) is relatively new and I have not yet played with 1/16 inch bits. I am surprised as to how nice those raised letters came out! For a generic tag I need to definitely try someone like that out … How does this type of logo look if you stained your wood?
Also for your keyhole hanger, did you first mill the slot with a downcut mill and then plunge in a keyhole bit and following along the slot?
Make your signature and scan it or take a picture. Get the Free Inkscape and turn it into an SVG. Then you can create any design you want for your signature card like @mhotchin did and just the project name and date when you create the signature card.
Open Inkscape. Highlight the picture. Go to “Path” menu and with your image highlighted do a Trace Bitmap. There is a preview. You can adjust the sliders to get a good image. Then “Save As” in the File menu and save as Inkscape SVG. Import into CC and eleminate whatever you dont want. Save it as an SVG for later use.
Let me try a different question … has anyone used a v-bit to carve their name/date/etc on the back of their projects? If so, what size bit did you find was best and what depth did you go down to. Thanks.
I do it all the time,well most times,I have my signature traced in CC but I now just do something like this.I use a 60 degree v Bit and only go about 2 to 3 mm deep.
I use a narrow v about 10 degrees bit and carve 1/4” deep, my signature. Then I fill with black epoxy and sand. The attached picture looks like it, but I don’t have a photo of my signature for you to see.
Eric
