CNC Eveything!
Talk of digital fabrication today is largely focused
on 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC routers
and mills; before their rise to prominence,
however, some industries relied on a range of
other computerized tools.
Those tools have now become available for
home workshops, typically quite affordably.
They offer a wealth of creative opportunities
for makers of all types —perhaps your next
project would benefit too. —Caleb Kraft
A
EMBROIDEY MACHINES
Brother and Baby Lock make a series of CNC
embroidery machines that are cheaper than
$300. You feed a design to the machine and a
well-made patch or embroidered design comes
out. The software is still daunting, though.
B
PEN PLOTTERS
Just like a vinyl cutter but with a pen instead of a
blade. Before the inkjet came along and took over,
these were everywhere that needed to create
blueprints and large-format documents. Now,
they fill a niche of computer art that is growing.
Find them on Twitter by searching #plottertwitter.
C
HOT WIRE FOAM CUTTERS
These systems use a hot wire to slice through
blocks of foam. In industrial settings these are
invaluable for prototyping and packaging. There
are home versions you can find for pretty cheap
as well.
D
VINYL CUTTERS
A swiveling blade is pulled along material,
making precise and accurate cuts. Typically used
for sign making and outdoor stickers, but other
applications are numerous. Companies like
Cricut, Brother, and USCutter continue to release
updated versions for crafters.
Caleb Kraft, Evil Mad Scientist, Polyshaper, USCutter
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