I’m trying to carve simple triangles using a 60 deg v bit. Carbide Create is creating toolpaths that add in rounded divots to the straight sides of the triangles. Here’s a screenshot:
I haven’t tested out this specific carve yet. However I had a previous job that did carve similar divots (in a number zero) although curiously they do not show up in the preview for that carve.
What’s going on here? Any tips?
This is an unfortunate consequence of the current system/algorithm which Carbide Create uses when converting a polyline into a V carving toolpath.
You may want to compare how Vectric Vcarve would handle the same toolpath.
I’ve no idea if it is equivalent in size to your triangle, but here’s what @WillAdams suggested:
Thanks for the replies. That’s disappointing. Seems like a simple request for v-carving software. I may try a test carving anyway to see if the divots are that noticeable. Vetric software seems to be windows only, which doesn’t help me much. Any mac suggestions?
Thanks anyway!
There isn’t much V carving software which runs on Mac OS X:
Lists where there might be more options at:
The most likely other candidate would be FreeCAD — not sure if it supports V carving or no.
One alternative would be to model the design in Carbide Create Pro or some other 3D application, then you could cut it out w/ the fidelity which your patience and your ball-nosed endmill selection will allow, but unfortunately would not have the crispness of using the actual tool.
How comfortable are you with using virtualization software such as Parallels or Bootcamp and run Windows on your Mac?
Thanks for all those links @WillAdams ! I’ve done some virtualization in the past, and may try again with some of these open source options. Thanks!
The opensource options have the benefit of not requiring virtualization.
I successfully run VCarve and now VCarve Pro in VMWare Fusion on my iMAC, and if I recall someone else does so using Parallels. If you’re comfortable with VMs, it is rock-solid reliable in my experience
Too much cost and hassle at this point–setting up fusion, buying windows license, buying vetric software. Not worth it for straight sided triangles :).
Just wanted to update and share the finished project. I did a test and the results weren’t too objectionable so I pushed ahead. The triangles were carved into a curio cabinet door and painted white. The color probably highlights the divots, but from normal viewing distances it’s not noticeable and overall I’m happy with the results.
Thanks all for the help.
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