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!Au...
Link to the Sainsmart 3018PRO
shrsl.com/2i8nz
The unboxing was completed in episode 1:
www.youtube.co....
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:
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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

[@sairamsai723]

​@@JamesDeanDesignssir i need help witch software is best for connect to my printer

[@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 👍

[@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

[@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!

[@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 👍

[@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.

[@Zenkai76]

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

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Glad it helped

[@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!

[@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!

[@thetourk]

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

[@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

[@ReeferReas]

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

[@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

[@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 🙏

[@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

[@engr.mohammadazharulislam5363]

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

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thank you very much

[@cwrigh13]

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

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Glad to help

[@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 😊

[@georgesuarez1318]

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

[@bertplantenga1825]

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

[@CliffsShed]

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

[@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

[@dtrimm1]

excellent videos - thanks James

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Glad they helped

[@martinburrows9922]

This has been a brilliant tuition, many thanks

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Glad its helped 👍

[@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 👍

[@markospastos]

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

[@springwoodcottage4248]

Super useful, inspiring & empowering! Thanks for sharing!

[@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 👍

[@grahamperry5841]

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

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thats good to hear 👍

[@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.

[@charliedewar2143]

Thanks again James.

[@MadaraUchiha-fi1wk]

perfect explanation

[@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!

[@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 😊

[@bessanandfaten3976]

You perfect my friend

[@thefox1623]

Keep up the excellent videos

[@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.

[@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

[@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 !

[@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?

[@nitinsurywanshi8367]

Thanks

[@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

[@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.

[@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?

[@johndemitry8218]

Well done.

[@sairamsai723]

Sir i have anycubic kobra 2 neo 3d printer sir i have tried to give g code but it's not showing

[@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!

[@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?

[@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 👍

[@artmellowsculpts]

i cant select 30 degree bit , its no there as option to select :(

[@DrRakis]

Great video, keep it up :)

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

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

[@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

[@kekekeernest8920]

Please, we need a software like lightburn for this, the UGS is so limited, @ least let's start this lesson again with a better software

[@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

[@Iggyshere]

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

[@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?

[@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.

[@zizalupini1879]

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

[@eeyan692003]

I bought the 3018 5 years ago and never had the chance to use it. Now i notice almost everybody is using the 3018 pro. Can i still catch up learning if i start now with the tutorials using 3018 pro?

[@billlester3088]

Where exactly does the cutter bit set on o,o,, outer cutting edge of bit or center of bit on o,o

[@janpaulzadravec5591]

Hi there again... I make my g-code file but...when i put it into program and send the file to CNC and the CNC goes to the position where it should start cutting but it does not touch the wood it is about 1 cm away from the wood and the drill does not spinning ... But it still moves according to the movements on the program just not to cut and does not touch the wood ... Please help

[@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?

[@photomaxdigital]

Please, create a video how to make/engrave rubber stamp with this machine.

[@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?

[@terryking6229]

Hi Dean, when running my 3018 pro, it cuts in an anticlockwise direction. Is this okay, if not, how to I change the direction of travel?

[@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

[@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.

[@tamarahscheibler2380]

Hello, I recently got my cnc 3018 pro machine and have watched all your videos. I am having a problem. Every image I put on lasergebl and try to burn it into the wood it comes out backwards. How do I fix this??? I have tried searching online for answers but all the solutions are for candle. Please help!!

[@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!!

[@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

[@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

[@RobertKohut]

Nice!!

[@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?

[@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?

[@mikehuynh5715]

why do you need to reset the z point? The program is cutting the same project. Shouldn't it have the same starting point?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Whilst the X and Y positions remain the same, the Z height changes whenever you put a different bit so you need to reset the Z position for best results

[@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

[@thefox1623]

No option for that bit??

[@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.

[@Digimatic007]

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.

[@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

[@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?

[@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

[@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

[@jaerodz9466]

I can’t figure out what I’m doing so wrong 😢 I’ve followed the directions step by step and every time I put the sd card back into the off line controller It starts the design but then it stops spinning & says “alarm” at 2%

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

You ideally need to know what alarm code. Do you have limit switches?

[@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 !!!

[@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

[@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

[@roslynsmith]

Hi James, as per most that have commented, I am new to the CNC 3018 Pro and have set up as per your tutorials however, the Easel program is now not free and I would like your reccommendation on a Free full version program that I can also use offline as i will be doing some work without internet.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Easel is still free, they have just tried to make you think that it is not. As long as you do use any of the Pro features, it's still free. Alternative free software is Carbide Create or Fusion 360 (Fusion can be complex for a beginner and requires internet) if you're happy to pay then considering Carveco Maker. This may help kzbin.info/www/bejne/e36samqImMdjmLM

[@garagemasterguitars]

Great vid thanks. i don't get "use a freevday" following your instructions or any other ways i've tried. Probably doing something wrong.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

No, unfortunately they stopped the free days in Easel last year. I need to make a new video for it 😕

[@garagemasterguitars]

@@JamesDeanDesigns I pushed something :) looks like free 30 days. No more free days. Shame. I'm spent three days now trying to sort out whats what at least your vids will get me started. Thanks.

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@MCSHELBY6969]

Can you provide the esle website so I can download it

[@normangibson3209]

I am using easel, but anything I want to carve always comes out a lot smaller, my machine is a 3018 pro. cna you help me

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Usually either your measurements are off, as in your designing in inches but out putting in millimeters. Or your stepper settings need to be adjusted. First simple test is just move all your axis one at a time by something like 100mm and actually measure the distance it travels with a ruler or something

[@simarpannu9600]

Hey, when I try to engrave acrylic sheet. It doesn’t come out clean. Like the edges are rough and small but thread like acrylic coming out. What should I do? Thanks

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

What bit are you using? Also do you know whether you are using cast or extruded acrylic?

[@simarpannu9600]

@@JamesDeanDesigns .1 mm 30 degrees v-bit and it’s cast acrylic.

[@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

[@akbadwolf]

Looks like Easel stopped the free day option

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes, they switched to a straight 30 day trial instead 😕

[@glennskorb4015]

yes great video, however maybe you can tell me what I am doing wrong, i download G files open them them up in USG and the get it ready like you show but the spindle never turns on and it starts to run the program???? any help will be great

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Make sure $32=0 in your GRBL settings. If that is all OK. Then as a test, type m3 S10000 into the console box a d hit enter. This should turn the spindle on. The m5 and enter to turn it off. Let me know how you get on

[@glennskorb4015]

@@JamesDeanDesigns worked great thank you