So technically Hello World was the first, but this is the first with sawdust. Took a couple tries to get it right, but I think it turned out pretty good.
attached it with some countersunk drywall screws to the base. I don’t have a dial indicator, so I can’t check it’s “flatness” but I will get one eventually. Right now I’m just trying to learn the basics, and make the thing work like it’s supposed to.
Congrats. I like how you grooved your lines. Did you use a V-bit for that? Also, you probably know, but remember if you need to surface that board, you don’t have much clearance between the top of it and the inserts.
Two choices that I see are countersink the holes or, assuming the holes go all the way through, flip the board over. That will allow clearance for surfacing.
Yes I used a 60 degree V-bit, and I don’t plan on surfacing this particular board. I don’t do anything with MDF, and don’t plan to, but I have a whole 4x8 sheet sitting in the garage that needs to be used up. I will likely make another one with less holes. I think I went overkill on this one. I really only need hole every 4 inches on the Y, and 2 on the X. If I feel I ever need more I have enough MDF to make what I need. The main reason I bought the machine was to decorate the top, and sides of boxes I make. mostly watch boxes. I did my first test for one today. Took about an hour, and 20 minutes.
Those are on a piece of 1/2 red oak. I think it turned out pretty well for my first attempt with no issues I might add.
Nicely done. You are way ahead of me, and I just recently got my machine as well.
looking great! I love how that carve came out 
I’m sure you will find the way that works best for you, but I find when engraving images or text similar to that, that maximum speed and quite high feedrate result in a really clean engraving. Best results for me on my XXL using a 60 or 45 degree V bit are max speed setting (25k RPM on my spindle) and 80-100 IPM, taking the full depth of cut in one hit.
Love the way that has come out in the oak, looks mint! Keep it up!
