3018 PRO - Designing and cutting

**UPDATE **
Easel no longer provides some of the features I used in this video for free. I have since made a new version which can be found here • Beginners guide to des... .
***
Episode 3.5 - In this episode I give a more rounded use of the 3018PRO CNC machine. I create my own design file in Easel, set up the correct bits and speed settings, export the G-code and run the cuts.
Logo SVG file used can be found here: 1drv.ms/u/s!AuoE9S3Cr4VZgpcG7...
Link to the Sainsmart 3018PRO
shrsl.com/2i8nz
The unboxing was completed in episode 1:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKrWt...
Building the machine in episode 2:
• 3018 PRO CNC Build
Doing a test cut and using UGS in episode 3:
• 3018 PRO - Making your...
Part of a 4 episode series. Next episode is installing the laser module doing some tests with that.
I have recently set up a Patreon page to help keep making tutorials and keep my KZbin channel moving forward.
/ jamesdeandesigns
If you want to help but do not want to become a Patreon, you con contribute directly:
www.paypal.me/jamesdeandesigns
Instagram - @jamesdeandesigns
Some product links I share are affiliate links. This means they do not cost you any more but I might make a small commission in return which helps towards making videos.

[@TheRepoMan32]

You, sir, are an absolute legend. I've spent 20+ hours over the past three days trying to learn how to use my 3018 and this 17 minute video just answered all the questions that other videos could not. Thanks so much for the content, looking forward to seeing more!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Glad it helped

[@sheraazsuliman1222]

great vid, many thanks for doing these vids. I initially fell for the snapmaker but at the cost and despatch date issues i came across the 3018 but felt intimidated by it's setup/ software/ program - you've just explained it so clearly and "easely" - awesome stuff. keep it coming

[@geoffcowan2384]

Looking forward to your video about setting up the laser. I was completely frustrated with my 3018 until I found your videos. These really make sense to me. The way you explain and demonstrate helped me figure out my machine. Thank you so much!

[@rickm8356]

that was perfect i have this machine for two months and never got the Dremel to work till today thanks to you so much for your simple clear instructions on this part of the machine you are the best

[@EC-gy9pv]

James, this is "explained to perfection" case. Excellent tutorial, all aspects of it! You made it look so easy... :) Thank you for sharing.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thank you very much 😊

[@robman80808]

Your videos are excellent. James. Thanks so much for spending the time to make them. Great clear explanations and camera work and you go at a sensible pace.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thank you 🙏

[@jamesreid2651]

Absolutely fantastic clear and concise instructions, very useful as a new cnc user.

[@buster349100]

Incredible! Thank you so much! I am an absolute Newbie with the 3018 PRO from SainSmart and this, plus the others before it (I've subscribed so can look them up) will aid my new hobby immeasurably!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Glad it helps. I'm still a newbie my self, we're all learning from each other 👍

[@warrenking1815]

Thanks James,your video helped clear up several questions that I had for using easel with my 3018 machine. I am still impressed by how clear and direct your videos are, thank you!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thank you very much. Glad I could help 👍

[@aliceloctl230]

Thank you for making a tutorial that goes over all the basic starting stuff. I have been frozen not sure how to get started but I feel pretty confident now. I am off to break some bits, lol!

[@SoulJah1337]

Hello James, I am new to cnc carving and the 3018 and you got what it needs! Quality explanations at its best! Greetings

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thank you very much

[@springwoodcottage4248]

Super useful, inspiring & empowering! Thanks for sharing!

[@JM-wi8xe]

I was new to using my 3018 or any of the different software. Explained so clearly and enjoyed learning from all the videos. Thanks very much James. John 👍

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thank you very much

[@cwrigh13]

These videos are so essential. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Glad to help

[@CliffsShed]

at last i am looking forward to revisiting my 3018, thank you for putting this up, atb, cliff

[@ReeferReas]

You are the best. I am so happy for these tutorials.

[@kennethbodkin3423]

3 days I have been looking at your videos. 3018 arrived today. Now down to business. Really enjoy your videos, No rush all explained but in a way you can take it in. Still a lot to learn but youve given me the hope to succeed. Thank you James. At 72 still willing to learn.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thats nice to hear. Good luck with your machine. Remember there is a new version of this video 👍

[@rafaelelejalde5377]

I neglected to describe, that I am using easel for the design and for the cutting and carving, after the onset of the problem I exported the G code to UGS and when executed the same happened the bit went all the way through. I have watched many of you videos, they have efficiently and clearly thought me every thing I know about the 3018, many thanks for your generosity.

[@shewmonohoto]

Thank you for not muting the machine actually working. You are the first KZbinr I have found that doesn't. It's actually quieter than I thought it would be.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thanks. I dont mute it but I do lower the volume in the recording so its watchable. I think my machine runs at about 75db if that helps

[@markospastos]

Thank you so much James! Your videos are so helpful!

[@Zenkai76]

Just assembled mine, this was helpful to know what to expect

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Glad it helped

[@bertplantenga1825]

i like your video's and i can not wait for the carbide video. thank you again.

[@bartelsphotography31]

Thanks James for this awesome video. I bought a machine and spend hours and hours to find somebody (video) that can explain to me which program to use so I can get my designs to use it for GBRL. Thanks for that!!! Great help and very good explained!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Glad I could help

[@bartelsphotography31]

@@JamesDeanDesigns May I ask you something..it seems that the 4 days free isn't available... I can^'t find it. It only shows me Beta testing and Educational account...have you got any idea?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

@@bartelsphotography31 I haven't used Easel for a while but from what I gather they may have now stopped the 4 free days unfortunately. I would consider looking at Carbide Create instead. It's a slightly different way of working but its all free

[@bartelsphotography31]

@@JamesDeanDesigns ok, thanks I'll have a look at it!

[@robertbarker55]

I am thinking of getting a 3018 pro laser. This is a great video and I have subscribed to your channel and will be looking at them all. Thanks again other you tube videos made it seem a lot more complicated.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

That's good to hear. Thank you 👍

[@thetourk]

thank you so much really good demo. to the point with clear advice and no woffle lol

[@martinburrows9922]

This has been a brilliant tuition, many thanks

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Glad its helped 👍

[@charliedewar2143]

Thanks again James.

[@mr.landalas9046]

Great content, I'm looking to buy one of these machines supplied a laser module and the router. These are the kind of videos I'm looking for. Also, your production is very good!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thank you for the kind words. I'm still new to making videos and CNC so that's really appreciated. Hope the videos help you

[@mr.landalas9046]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Absolutely! Especially since you uploaded your own design and used two bits. Those are steps most other tutorials don't show. I've been looking at the whole topic for a few weeks and learned more in the time I watched your videos than the other times combined. You're off to a great start!

[@dtrimm1]

excellent videos - thanks James

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Glad they helped

[@grahamperry5841]

Thanks for this - very clear. I’m inspired to blow the dust off my 3018 & have another go!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thats good to hear 👍

[@MadaraUchiha-fi1wk]

perfect explanation

[@thefox1623]

Keep up the excellent videos

[@bessanandfaten3976]

You perfect my friend

[@johndemitry8218]

Well done.

[@JohnColgan.]

Hi James, thank you for posting these videos, I'm a week into carving with a CNC 3018 Chinese clone. You're calm voice & level of detail are great, brilliant for a nervous newbie like me. I see in your comments that Easel have removed some functionality in their software. Can you explain what has changed and importantly ...what is missing please? Many thanks again - JC

[@Orangeballs60]

hi thanks for the video helped me out a lot

You showed on Easel that it lists the 3018 or Sainsmart. What is the difference,it's the same company and machine.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

***UPDATE *** new version of this video can be found here kzbin.info/www/bejne/e4uoo6KmnL-SfLs

[@DrRakis]

Great video, keep it up :)

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thank you. Slightly difficult trying to learn and video it but I'm trying

[@timffoster]

Thanks. That was clear, concise, and understandable. (unfortunately, this kind of clarity is not frequently seen for the 3018). Keep up the good work. Subscribed.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thats really appreciated. Thank you 😊

[@warrenking1815]

James, thank you for clarity and information. This type of video is just what I have been looking for. Are you going to cover 360 software in the future?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

That's very kind 👍 fusion 360 is a powerful piece of software and I dont really know enough about it to make a video at the minute but maybe in the future

[@Q5Grafx]

bought this same cnc. also took me hours to get the axis' worked out and microstepping settings figures out. the sainsmart logo milled at 1cm length couldnt read it. so i did a plunge at x0 then a plunge at x100 measured it and figured out eventually what i was off. Once i got it working and had good setup code in the machine i set it aside. this week the upgrades come in such as the 500w spindle, tool height, offline module, drag chain and homing switches. A friend printed the new spindle mount for me. im holding off on the laser upgrade as mine came with the .5 watt and is pretty useless. i also found the original spindle motor junk as its not balanced well and vibrates like a dryer with a brick in it but really fast. this was intended to be a learner machine but i found it had trouble cutting the shallowest cuts in poplar. oh well im learning.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

That is very true regarding the stock spindles. Ive actually gone through 4 or 5 in the space of a few months. The balance on them is terrible. I've got one that is really quiet but I'm also pretty sure its a lower RPM at the same time. Good luck with your upgrades 👍

[@alandunnighan2159]

Great videos James. I got a 3018 for xmas and been running through your videos to figure out how to use it. They have been very helpful. I have some questions you may be able to help with. I have the generic v bits you get with the machine but easle no longer supports them, have you found a way round this? Also the jobs i have done so far, the zero point dosnt seem to match up to the actual piece on the bed. If you take the corner in Easle as the home point and set this as zero on the actual work then it seems to be a bit off set for some reason compared to the visual disply in the design window? any ideas on what i may be doing wrong Many thanks and look forward to more videos

[@georgesuarez1318]

In most cases you can just output normal gcode (flat end mill) and still put a vcarve bit in your CNC.

[@michaelsmart4980]

Hi James great videos helped me to set my 3018 up easily are you going to do a video on setting up the laser?

[@Scifictus]

Thanks so much for your videos - got me up and running very quickly. Any chance of you publishing a beginner's chart showing recommended feeds and speeds for the most common bits that come with the 3018Pro? (e.g. 1mm upcut, 2mm upcut, and a few v cuts?) - and perhaps split by MDF, Ply and soft wood. Ideally these would be based on the default 7000rpm drill, not your upgraded one. Be a really helpful start for noobs like me!

[@chrisstoner195]

Your videos helped a lot. Couple issues I have: 1-getting a z access error when I try to connect pc to cnc. 2- how would I go about cutting thicker pieces on my 3018? I was hoping to cut close to 2” thick pieces.

[@nitinsurywanshi8367]

Thanks

[@RobertKohut]

Nice!!

[@grahamtravis]

I have watched all your videos and I am impressed by the clarity of your explanations. I have just yesterday built my 3018 with your video as a guide, and it all went well(ish). However when I went to use Easel, I found that they no longer do the free days and so there is no option to download the Gcode. Can you suggest any other free apps with the ease of use of Easel but with the ability to output Gcode? (I have tried Fusion360 without much success.) Thanks

[@matthewosbaldeston8667]

Hi James, Great content, very informative!! I am having some issues with simulation times.. I have tried to use your SVG as a guide. However, I am getting much longer simulation estimates. Any idea what I am doing wrong?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

This is a big issue across the board with most software unfortunately. Even the really expensive software struggles to get it correct because they don't know the individual settings of the machines. The only way to estimate it is keep track of a few jobs. Mark down the estimation at the start and then the actual time it took. After a couple of jobs you should be able to work out the difference as a rough ratio or percentage. So for example if it estimate 80 minutes but actually takes 100 minutes then you know to roughly ad 25% on each time. Although this is only a rough estimation

[@adrian11144]

Fantastic, thank you! I am wanting to cut linoleum could you recommend a fine blade for detail cuts please. I have a cnc 3018. Thanks!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Hi, Unfortunately I have never cut that before on this machine so I would not know what to recommend.

[@ianknight2053]

Many thanks James. I love the friendly style of your videos. I’m just about to purchase a Yofuly 3018 Pro-Max, which has an updated spindle and your videos will be a great help. Just one point, Zee axis, rather than Zed axis? 😉

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thanks 👍 and I mean it is technically zed if you look it up but we'll agree both can be used 😆 i shouldn't really argue, Im born and raised in England but my English is terrible

[@ianknight2053]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Not at all James, I’m sure you English is far better than most. I live in Brighton and assume you come from somewhere near Birmingham due to your regional accent?

[@rap4trains]

James, you make it looks so easy. I'm having problems setting my Z code. I set the X . Y and Z at the bottom left corner at the top of the workpiece. I start the cut and the bit rases and moves to the start and starts cutting - But the bit is still way above the workpiece. The dot showing 0,0 is on the bottom on the workpiece. Am i supose to set the Z 0 at the bottom of the workpiece also? That would be difficult because the workpiece is in the way. I want the Z 0 on the top of the workpiece. What an I doing wrong? I'm using Easel and UGS. Thanks Bob.

[@Grimlock77]

Following your videos are sooooo much better than the manufacturer ones! Cheers. Got some teething probs running my first cut. Only doing a basic hexagon, 1mm into MDF but it's snapping the tip off my bits. Only got it on 0.5mm passes and lowered the spin to 450. Should I be running it faster on MDF as opposed to regular wood?

[@starhawke380]

Still loving these videos in 2023! Thanks for making these. Ive done a few test cuts and seem to have the machine figured out enough to play with. Im having a problem with this section though doing a rough cut then a finish cut. My problem is getting the spindle back to the home point. When the rough cut finishes the bit just sits there. When I hit the HOME button on the control I get an error (Sorry, didnt write down the code). Using the position numbers I can get it back manually close to the home position, but not exactly there. Any thoughts on what Im doing wrong?

[@simonm8784]

Firstly thank you for your brillant videos. Every cut I make with my 3018 has rough edges, I have tried new cutting heads and checking for loose bolts on the machine, the work is secure. I'm only cutting 0.5mm into ply. Any suggestions or pointers appricatied.

[@simonm8784]

Fixed! The PSU was set to 12v rather than 24 so the spindle was rotating too slowly.

[@graemeknapp2643]

Hi mate I have decided to buy easel pro which I am very happy with and your tutorials have been a godsend but Im having the occasional problem of the program sticking in the same place, so two questions, do you have any idea what would be causing this, and is there a way in easel to force advance the cutting progress. Any help would be greatly accepted. Graeme

[@charliedewar2143]

Hi,I do enjoy your videos,you take the time,and make it clear to understand,I do have a problem with my machine,when I create a SVG file in carbide create and send it to candle software,it goes into hold position on the software and nothing happens,any suggestions.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Its just a small bit if code its inserting in case you want to change the bit. If you click to carry on it should be fine

[@adamarcher3350]

Really great videos. I have followed the videos and found them a great help. Hope you can help as I am new to cnc and have a purchased a 3018 pro. I purchased to learn on. I have used it for some small engraving in plastic and wood and it has worked fine using easel and UGS as you explained in your videos. I used the same file and tried to engrave brass. The machine starts and randomly stops and the spindle continues to spin. I press the stop button or pause button on the UGS software and the spindle keeps spinning. I have to close the UGS software and turn off the CNC to reset. UGS say there is a unexpected exception I have reduced the depth of cut to 0.2mm and the depth per pass is 0.1mm to not load the machine in Brass Can you help me with this problem. What am I doing wrong?

[@changesnothing8789]

awsome vid. Have you tried any small high detailed relief carvings yet?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

No not yet. Mainly little signs and plaques

[@ericberg4522]

Great video series. I do have a question though. Do you know of a way to do this process off of a chromebook? I don't have a PC available for the easel Export. Also, I subbed, and appreciate the content that I've seen so far. Keep it up. My 3018 should be here on Wednesday. Your ease of use videos talked me into the plunge, then i realized i didn't have a windows machine aftetr i ordered.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Hi Eric. I really don't know much about chrome books but I suspect you will still get it to work as some people run these machine off a tablet or even a Raspberry Pi. Rather than be giving you the wrong advice, I would suggest heading over to the Sainsmart Genmitsu Facebook user group. There are lots of very knowledge people on there who will be able to help you out. If you're not on Facebook then let me know and I'll ask on your behalf

[@ericberg4522]

Thanks for the response, I'll head right over there.

[@ericberg4522]

So i went to play around in Easel and after going through settings and such it turns out that you can export Gcode directly from Easel without the use of the driver. Would you test it and see if it actually works since my machine isn't here yet? Its under ""Machine > Advanced > [Generate G-code]"" Appreciate it if you would.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

@@ericberg4522 yes, thats correct, I slightly touch on that in this video and the one before this called "making your first cut". Then run the code using UGS

[@AnthonysBBQ]

Are you using the bits that came with the machine or did you upgrade them?

[@stuartlaur10]

Hi James, I want to use the spoilboard surfacing files from Graham Bland but I do not get a link on your video. Could I ask for that link please. As a newcomer to CNC your videos have made things very simple - Thank you very much. Stuart Foster

[@gabrielav4444]

Great video James, Im a beginner and I want to know if you recommend another program to do the designs, and if you had made the video with another free software? Thanks I just build up the machine and I want to start using it, I believe is gonna be more easy, but I’ll keep trying. Thanks a lot

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

It depends on how complex you plan to go with your designs. For fairly basic stuff Easel and Carbide Create are free. For more complex stuff possibly try Carveco, it seems to be getting good feedback

[@rafaelelejalde5377]

Good afternoon.I just started using a generic (from Amazon) 3018 CNC. The first cost through metal work very well. The first engraving of letters also worked well. Suddenly when trying to engrave letters in a piece of metal the bit went all the way through the metal. I reviewed the setting for material thickness 0.6 mm, Depth 0.1 mm, Depth per pass 0.1 mm. I used the Z probe and check that its settings were correct. When carving starts the bit moves the correct place and goes all the wall through the material (0.6 mm) and through the particle board. I have checked and rechecked all the settings that I know, and I can not fix it, help please!, many thanks!!

[@sergiarigato]

Hello James Your tutorials they are amazing. I fully understand all steps you do it. But I wander if you can help me to emboss a model or something. Thank you for your work and good luck !

[@stanislavtodorov8705]

Hey James. Thanks for the informative tutorial. Is there an option in Easel to set up depth of a pass? I have a 10mm pine wood I want to cut in certain shape, but I am afraid my 3018 will not be able to do it in a single pass. I'd like to do it in 5 passes of 2mm for example. Is there an option to do it in Easel?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes, in the top right there is the option to edit the speeds for the bits. One of the options will be the pass depths, you just set it in there

[@stanislavtodorov8705]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Thank You for sharing your know-how!

[@de.holzwurm]

Hi James, great video. My husband bought the 3018pro and fitted it together. But we don´t know how to go on. I installed the driver and the GBRL to my laptop. But we don´t know what else we need. By the way: we are German and we don´t find any German book to run the 3018 pro. Maybe you can help us?

[@ghettowagen]

Hi James, as a beginner I want to have a collection of different milling bits. From rough milling detailed milling. I have the cnc 3018 mill. Where is the best place to get them from. Cheers mate and great videos too. Very informative

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Generally speaking amazon. I use the blue tipped ones from Sainsmart which you can get on amazonor directlyfrom them. They are a little more expensive but they seem to be pretty good and hold their sharp edge for longer. Just search 1/8th bits

[@MadDogPE]

Hi JD ! Great work with the 3018 ! I just got one myself, upgraded it with limit switches while assembling it. But now that I'm actually trying to make it work I couldn't find any of the options on Easel to download the G-code, seems that it is not free anymore, not even for days. Am I right ? If so, what are you using now? Btw, it does communicate perfectly with UGS and it's been calibrated already. Thanks !

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I moved away from Easel in the end as I found it had a few bugs, but I'll check later when I go out to the workshop 👍

[@MadDogPE]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Thanks for the quick reply. I'll appreciate if you can share the program you're using to create g-codes. I think Easel is very user friendly, but as usual, business first I guess. :D Do you also have a suggestion for the laser as well ? I haven't tried that one yet. :'(

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

@@MadDogPE Easel is really user friendly. I've actually moved over to Vectric software as I'm planning to get a bigger CNC anyway but it is more expensive. The other popular free software a lot of people use is Carbide Create. At first it doesn't seem as user friendly as Easel but its just a different way of working, in fact its a closer to the way more expensive software works

[@MadDogPE]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Great ! Thank you, I'll give it a try !!! Cheers !!!

[@housspin1]

Hi James I love your channel. Learned a lot. I try do what you did follow all the steps. The roughing cut end up perfect. But the detailed come up really bad. It cut the leters in diagonal and so far any idea? I would like to share a picture here. If you like. Thanks

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Hi. If you're on Facebook or Instagram, find me in there and share the pictures, I'll try to help 👍

[@andrewfelton3735]

Watching these is actually getting me somewhere so thank you! Just a bit confused as to how you separate one design in to two files to 1. Rough cut 2. Fine detail. I understand why it’s done but don’t know how you do it....

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

You dont do it as such, the software does it for you. So in this video the software works out what can be done with the rough cut, and any detail thats left it knows the smaller bit has to do it.

[@andrewfelton3735]

many thanks for such a prompt reply... best video's and instructions i've found so far and to get a reply makes it perfect! Thank you. What design software do you use/recommend?

[@mexicanbowhunter]

Hi James!! Thanks for all you do for us beginners, I created my design just to start and exported it and when I send it to carve the CNC moves but the spindle won’t turn but the X and Y moves like it’s carving, Can you help me with that issue??

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Hi, More than likely it will be issue 1 in this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/qF7YfaaDrLR1nLs

[@thomaswegener366]

Hi James! Great videos! Do you have an easy-to-use alternative for easel? It doesn't have to be free but I don't want to start a monthly subscription...What CAM software are you currently using? Thanks a lot.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I currently use Vectric Aspire. I got a second hand version off ebay. Carbide create pro seems to get a lot of mentions as does carveco but I havent used either

[@0dtp1]

Great content! Thanks for doing this. Easel is a Godsend... so easy to use. This and your laser video has gotten me up and running so fast with my new machine. Question for anyone... I can't seem to get UGS to start my spindle when running my gcode. I am forced to use Candle, which I don't like nearly as much as UGS, and from Candle I just start the spindle manually. Any ideas on how I can get this to work properly in UGS?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thanks 👍 when you export from Easel you need to set the Spindle mode to automatic which adds a little bit of extra code. I suspect you currently have it on manual.

[@0dtp1]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Ah thanks! I see that now... it was in fact set to manual. What should I set the RPM to? I did not see you do this step in the video... or maybe I just missed it which is entirely possible!

[@Berghiker]

Does the spindle have a flat edge? At high speeds it will vibrate a little? Not sure if I should get the 3018 or the PRO?

[@yentihwd1]

It's important not to go too slow though. You need proper chunk out. Slow cutting creates a lot of friction and friction results in heat that ruin router bits.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

That is very true.

[@pfeiferfelix]

Hi James, your videos were really helpful to set up everything correctly. I did my first test cuts without seeing your videos and it went okay but with lots of room for improvement. I wanted to test Easel now but unfortunately there was an update. Now they don't offer any free days but only a one time free trial for 30 days. That means I still can can follow your instructions but after 30 days I would have to subscribe. You mentioned Carbide Create. Can you do a video on that too? Or do you think it is simple enough so I can follow this video and just use Carbide Create instead of Easel?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I'm hoping to do one but if I'm honest, it will not be any time soon. As I have a few more to do first. Carbide create is quite simple and there are lots of tutorials on it but its a slightly different way of working than Easel

[@shabbirabdulhussein8748]

Hi James! I'm looking to getting one of these and I think your video just nudged me a little bit to go and do it! Do you know what materials I can cut with this CNC machine? I've noticed plywood is quite common, is there a website I can go to, to buy these materials? how do I know which ones I can get and cut on this machine?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Hi, it will cut through all wood, but the speed had to be reduced a little for harder woods such as oak. Wil cut through acrylic and plastic. MDF as well. It can do something's on softer metals like aluminium but not hard metal.

[@elielikoo]

Great video. On a different video I used your box gcode and it worked great, spindle spining like it should. When I tried creating a text on Easle and running that gcode, for some reason my spindle doesn't spin. Any idea on what I might be doing wrong?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

You have to go into Machine and setup I think. Under hardware there is an option saying spindle, make sure its on automatic and not manual

[@elielikoo]

@@JamesDeanDesigns can't thank you enough, that did the trick. I'm now a subscriber!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

@@elielikoo glad it helped 👍

[@balazsmark1412]

Hey James, great video. I have a quick question: my work area is 20x20x4 cm, and what I want to do is to cut a 1.5 cm deep, 14 cm diameter circle into it. Would I be able to do it with the 3018? Thanks a lot!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes, the cutting area of the 3018 is 30 x 18 x 4 so you could easily that

[@balazsmark1412]

Hello James, My next question is about UGS… I put together my vector in Aspire and I’m at the save step. I would like to run my work in UGS, and I dont know what Post processing option should I choose in Aspire. Would you be able to help me out? Thanks!

[@sharongibson5653]

Hi James iv been watching your tutorials as I am a newbie, iv got the Cnc3- 3018pro, I'm all setup to go but when I register on easel and put in my machine details it asks what motion controller, rail size, lead screw and spindle, iv googled n U tube but cannot find these answers, please help x

[@Iggyshere]

When getting ready to cut the g code detail, did you have zero in the z axis again? Xy axis?

[@ianboswell9950]

Hi , I have used your videos has a great and simple guide to using my 3018 pro , I have also been looking for an alternative to Easel and the only one I have found for free is Carbide Create . I have not had much time to try this but just thought i would suggest it for you to look at.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I tried Carbide create a long time ago. One feature you often do when engraving is a roughing pass where you quickly clear mass material, and then a finishing pass which cleans it all up. The free version of Carbide doesn't do this, there are work arounds but its a bit messy. let me know how you get on with it though

[@ProfileP246]

Brilliant. Can you save the g code or do you have to use Easel each time? cheers.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes, they have changed things since I made this video. You have to setup a machine profile and then you have the option to download the Gcode

[@ProfileP246]

@@JamesDeanDesigns That's great and thankyou for the video, very well done.

[@billylester7901]

James you used metric but does easel permit inches as well. Thanks

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes. There is a little toggle button that switches between mm and inches

[@marshlegions7487]

Where can I find your video on laser cutting with 3018?

[@ianknight2053]

What do you think is the best wood to use for clean routing please James? I’ve noticed people using pine have very ragged edged cuts.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Hard wood is definitely better than soft wood (pine). Soft wood is fine for testing and playing but with pretty much any hardwood you will have much cleaner results

[@ianknight2053]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Thank you. Building my machine tomorrow!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

@@ianknight2053 good luck! Completely forgot to reply to you the other day. Usually when people try and correct what I words I use its because they are from the other side of the sea, I hadn't realised you were from the UK 😆 you'll be pleased to know I'm trying to say zee more in my latest video

[@ianknight2053]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Thank you James. I’ll be watching so don’t push it!😉

[@ianknight2053]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Assembled the machine, which took a long time but I enjoyed the build. I followed your video and did a number of successful square test cuts. Easel seems to have changed slightly from your video. There don’t appear to be the free Pro days anymore, just for the first 30 days and then you have to pay. Your videos are a huge help, thank you. I would like to do some acrylic LED night lights if you fancy doing a video James?😉

[@Alan_AB]

James - Does the machine pause itself in between tool changes or do you have to pause the machine manually?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

It treats each job separately. So it runs the first file and returns to the start, you change the bit, reset your Zero for the Z height, and then load in the next file

[@Alan_AB]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Thank you. As a retired CNC programmer within the aerospace industry let me tell you that your videos are first class for introducing people to CNC machining. Great job. Keep up the great work.

[@zizalupini1879]

Hi James... is there a way with Inkscape Gcode to place my cutting tool on the inside line for my cnc cutter

[@davidhughes4020]

Hi James finally got all setup started a test in easel sent it to ugs set a start point then hit start and fab cnc going through the proses but the cnc router not cutting it’s still but cnc is moving can you advise

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Hi David, just catching up on comments. When you say still not cutting do you mean the spindle is not spinning or its cutting above the material? By any chane are you on Facebook? if so I would suggest joining the Sainsmart group and posting the issue in there with perhaps some photos or videos. I will be able to help you better as I can see whats going on, plus there are lots of other knowledgeable users in that group

[@nu77byte49]

Hi Just getting into this and I have setup UGS and have gone through the test file you provided the 50x50mm that all works great but i tried a simple design on easel it exports fine and loads into UGS and after I set the z height and start the job it all moves but the spindle doesn't spin. I thought I broke it but I tested your 50x50mm test job and that worked fine I'm really not sure why this happened, any help would be greatly appriciated

[@nu77byte49]

disregard it was set to manual lolz

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Hi, Don't worry, its a really common thing when exporting from Easel. Check out issue 1 in this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/qF7YfaaDrLR1nLs&pp=sAQA

[@joetornabene3581]

Hi. A newbie with a really stupid question...sorry. Having watched your vids I downloaded UGS and all is fine other than I cant see how to get the spindle spinning / cutting. I am now using PicSvg to generate the svg files, then sending them into Easel, then when completed importing these to the machine and using the original Candle software for cutting as I know how to get the head to spin !! Any chance you can give me some advise please as this does mean a lot of tooing and froing between software etc. Said it was a stupid newbie question. Thanks Joe

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

We are all newbies at some point. So if you are using Easel, I think under device settings somewhere there is an option for the spindle and the choices are Manual or Automatic. If you set it to Automatic it will insert the correct piece of code to start and stop your spindle at the beginning and end of the job.

[@joetornabene3581]

Hi James. As the newbie that I am you don't know how satisfying it is to get advise, however simple or silly that it may sound, and then to find that it works first go. I did what you suggested in Easle and hey presto the spindle works. Absolutley brilliant. Many thanks indeed and I will now be continuing with the next videos.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

@@joetornabene3581 Glad that solved it

[@brandonh3888]

In wood like pine, do you think this machine could handle 1mm cuts with an 1/8th 4 flute HSS

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

With a standard spindle you still might struggle, but its also about the speed. So for example you can cut deeper but have to reduce the feed rate

[@mtz3843]

great vid, question, where does one get the g code app?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Which app do you mean? UGS?

[@mtz3843]

@@JamesDeanDesigns yeah the vids were talking about after using the easel app putting the code or what ever in a g code thing to make the machine carve

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

@@mtz3843 you can get UGS from here winder.github.io/ugs_website/download/

[@charlesguerin4901]

How do you make sure the Z point stays in the same x,y when you change the bit?

[@athanb94]

yeah I'm confused about this too because if your zero position is different for he rough and detail, then won't the print screw up? Awesome video though 👍

[@Predictbauer]

The zero point is the same for the entire piece. So when he loaded the other file into universal Gcode, the machine knew exactly where to go from the zero point to the point of plunge for the detailed part. Also he did not move the wood. All the Zero point is a point of reference for the dimensions of the entire image.

[@All_Geo]

Using the same process would you be able to put the downloaded gcode into an offline Controler, Jog the bit to the corner of the material and start the cut?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

In theory yes. I dont have an offline controller though so I havent been able to do any videos on it

[@cmorait]

Hi I want to try that CNC with Alphacam. Do you know if that controller is compatible with fanuc (like the mech 3 software ) or other thanks.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I dont know much about about that coding unfortunately. Some people do run 3018s on that code but I believe you have to have the correct control boars

[@DannyDanny-gs6vn]

Hello! After the trial period of Easel, i will be able to use it and save gcodes to send them in other control softwere?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

You will only be able to use the non-pro features. You can still get quite a bit done with it but will not be able to do things like V carves. If you want some alternative software options I made this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/e36samqImMdjmLM

[@adrianbarrett614]

hi james im on the easel web page ive setup the dimentions of the cut etc when it comes down to enter i t comes up i have to setup my machine details ive filled out the bits i know then its got motion controller,rail size ,lead screw and spindle i have the cnc3-3018pro version i think its the upgrade from your model thanks for great tutorials ade

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I think the CNC3 is just a name, from what I can see the machine is exactly the same so no need to worry about that. I'm not at a PC at the minute to confirm but to be honest I don't advise anyone to try and run their machine through Easel, I tell people to just export the Gcode and run it through UGS or Candle. Easel has been known to regularly mess up when controlling 3018s for some reason. Does things like pluges the Z axis straight into the wood