Laying Out My Axiom Precision CNC Table In Vectric For Quick Reference When Making Jigs

Accurately laying out my Axiom Precision CNC table in Vectric enables me to quickly make jigs, fixtures, and other add-ons as needed. I took the time to get all the measurements and properly laid out the aluminum table, spoilboard, and T-slots in my Vectric software.
Now, I can make a quick surfacing toolpath, or any number of jigs for special or repeated projects. Doing this takes all the guesswork out of where I can utilize T-bolts or other hardware.
What do you think? What do you do? Let me know.
#axiom #christcrosscrafts #cnc #woodworking
Tools:
Axiom AR8 Pro
www.woodworkingshop.com/produ...
Knobs and other hardware:
www.woodworkingshop.com/categ...
Vectric Aspire
www.woodworkingshop.com/produ...
0:00 Laying out the table
0:56 Making a grid
1:18 Making a fence
2:15 Table layout
2:57 Spoilboard layout
3:35 Pin Fence
7:30 Sample jig

[@eldonhinck1487]

Outstanding. I am going to be ordering the AR8 ProV5 24X48. This will be my first, and probably last, CNC machine. Your videos have helped me decide which brand to go with, and I truly appreciate you and the time and explanations you give to help people like me out. I'd love the directions on how to do what you did, if at all possible. I have absolutely zero experience, but know I want a reliable machine to hopefully lesson my frustrations as I begin the CNC journey.

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

You won't be disappointed with that machine at all. It's solid and should perform well. The key to the layout is ensuring it can be repeated if anything should move. Make a guide block. If you would like the file, once you get your machine, just email me and I'll send it to you.

[@davidstanfield1872]

This is awesome! Thank you for sharing.

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Thank you for watching. This has been a game changer for making jigs.

[@mheredia65]

Love this setup man! Will definitely be using it when I get to upgrade!

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

I know someone who has the file. Let me know!

[@DolphinLVR60]

Great Video! I am looking at the Axiom as my first CNC that will stay with me for a Long Time!

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Thank you for watching. I've been nothing but super pleased with it. I've done some crazy cool things on it I couldn't have done on other machines. Definitely the best machine under 10k.

[@JF32304]

Spot on agree! If you're doing the same part many times this is a huge help! I'm not sure if you've already done it, but I would back up that config file Incase your machine crashes and you need to rebuild it. Cheers sir! Edit: subbed! Good content!

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

I have a master and a copy just in case.

[@davidhittenberger1651]

Grest video!! I have an Iconic 8 and would appreciate a copy of your file. I’m just setting up my reference pin locations and this video is perfect!

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Thank you. The iconic 8 has a different table than the Pro or Elite, so the file won't be close.

[@michaelpayne8102]

Thanks, I'm looking into picking up a AR16 and want to be able to load panel sides (Left and Right) for processing, this method will work great (will create Left/Top/Right for flexibility)

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

This has certainly helped me. Taking the time to get all the dimension and putting them into vectric makes all the difference. Even when I need to something special on a project, I can refer to the layout to ensure clamps will cover and I know where everything is. Thanks for watching.

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

I love my AR8 Elite. I wish I had room for a 16. Congrats

[@donriggs5234]

Thank you very much! I have an Axiom AR8Pro and would love to have the Vcarve file you created. I am new to this and appreciate you sharing your knowledge.

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Leave your email here, or email me at [e-mail] and I'll send you the Vectric Pro file.

[@DavidNicolanti]

Chris, Great video. very helpful! I am literally picking up my slightly used AR8 Pro 5 tomorrow. I would really appreciate a copy of your file. THANKS, DAVID

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Do you have v carve pro? If so,, email me at christcrosscrafts@gmail and I'll email you.. I'm actually working on an upgraded version of this file but I'm not quite done. A new video will follow.

[@DavidNicolanti]

@@ChristcrossCrafts Yes, I have Aspire

[@joelherman6641]

This is really awesome. Really liking all of your videos, I especially like the fact that you summarize at the end and show examples of what was captured in the video in a real world environment. Do you still have this file available for aspire?

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

I do. I'm working on an update with larger pins with varied configuration and wider end strips. Still dialing it in. If you'd like the file, please email me at [e-mail] and I'll send you the original from the video.

[@jp8479]

A jig to align your spoil boards pieces. How about dowel holes on the Alum base similar to the dowel holes on the MDF spoil board? Great process you got set-up!

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

The spoilboard exceeds the actual cutting parameters of the CNC. I made a block the references the side and the first board. After that, they all get spaced out with the same spacer block.

[@fraggle1340]

Great video. I'm looking to buy the same machine next year. I would really appreciate a copy of the setup file you have created to help get me started. Cheers, Don

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Thanks for watching. It will work on Vectric Desktop, Pro, or Aspire.

[@keithflemo]

The pins are a super idea . I just got the i2R 8 I'd love to get the plans for the pins if possible. Ps great channel BTW

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

The I2R has a different table and layout so my file won't work for your table.

[@DCDLaserCNC]

Great setup! I have been thinking about doing this for my Axiom AR8 Pro. Thank you for sharing! It looks like I need to get out to the shop and start doing a lot of precise measuring. I would definitely be interested in your file if you would not mind sharing.

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Sure. If you want to message me your email, ill send it over. Ive made a few more gadgets for it. Now that I have the layout, all my jigs align to the left and bottom pins and I know where to drill. Im working on a vac table design. That will eliminate some issues with thin or small parts... I hope.

[@DCDLaserCNC]

@@ChristcrossCrafts Where do you want me to message you my email? I would love to use your layouts for sure! Thank you so much!

[@DCDLaserCNC]

I just sent you an email to the email address on your Facebook page. Thank you so much!

[@MarkWeithman-wj2il]

Hey Chris I just picked up an Axiom and would be interested in your spoil board and jigs for this machine auto route 8 pro😊. Just subscribed.

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Shoot me an email to [e-mail] and I'll email the table file

[@mattschorr1666]

Awesome work. I have an AR-8 Pro. Does you offer for the file still stand? Thanks for the video

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Thanks for watching. It has proven to be quite valuable for a variety of projects. Yes, it does. Either leave your email here or send me an email asking for the file at [e-mail]

[@acerjuglans383]

Do you know if your X and Y axis are actually square to each other to begin with? I also have an Axiom CNC, the AR8. I found out my machine wasn't running square when I had made a giant speed square from 1/2" plywood. It was 1/8" out of square. After contacting Axiom, I got instructions on how to fix the problem. You basically have to take some things apart and rack the gantry. There is VERY little adjustment in this repair. And to be honest....it's STILL out of square. I'd say it's at least 1mm out now. Doesn't sound like a lot, but I still can't make an accurate giant speed square. Or anything else square, for that matter. Do a test for yourself, using the 3-4-5 math trick. Put a 30° V bit in the machine, and lightly drill 3 points on your MDF spoilboard, at multiples of 3, 4 and 5. Go to your extreme X and Y measurements. Then measure between those points, and see if they're actually multiples of 3, 4 and 5. If not, your CNC is out of square too.

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

I found out it was my file. I have done the 3,4,5 and the CNC is perfect.

[@acerjuglans383]

@@ChristcrossCrafts Good to know!

[@edayers315]

Thanks, I would love to have your vectors file.

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Thank you for watching.. ill gladly send it.. I just need your email.. Either message me or leave it here.

[@philbuettner1564]

Just discovered your page. Your layout is an excellent idea that I will incorporate into my Axiom AR8. Where can I message you for more info?

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Email me and I'll get it to you. [e-mail]

[@rolfjohansson3827]

HI Great video I love the idea of creating a layout of my table. I have the AR6 V5 and did the pins trick but some thing has moved or changed so I am thinking about removing the spoil board. since the template I am using is attached to a piece of MDF I know I will not drill into the table. I should mention the template I am using and the parts I am creating are Aluminum. my question is how did you create the outside fence to square up your spoil board because I truly do not want to drill hole into my table

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

A template to set the spoilboard is key. If you can't set it to a specific location & spacing that is repeatable, then it's impossible to check from time to time to be sure the bords haven't moved. I made my jig to set the left and bottom edge to the correct distance from the edge of the table. Then did consistent spacing to ensure all boards had the proper spacing.

[@1kmlarose]

Chris, I just received my Axiom Ar8 V5 pro on Monday, 01/25/2021, and I LOVE IT! I would so love to have the waste board table layout that you have created. I am such a NEWBIE at this but know I need it. Let me know how to connect to get it and if there is a cost. Thank you in advance.

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Feel free to drop me a message with your email, or leave it here if you feel comfortable with that. I will send it over. Are you using Vectric V-carve Pro? I'm also working on an update video showing how to prep the table before running the grid and pin fence. I just posted a preview to that on my IG account (same name). I still have other things to add before putting on YT.

[@1kmlarose]

@@ChristcrossCrafts yes, Vectric V-Carve Pro. I am having a blast with it. You can use [e-mail] to email it to me.I really appreciate all of your videos and help!

[@jimmyfitz]

#badass

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Thank you sir. Just trying to make it better

[@jeffhess6989]

Chris: Well done. How can I get this layout file from you? Also do you have any plans for sale for the fixtures you are putting on top? Thanks, Jeff

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Thank you for watching. I don't have plans for the fixtures or a website to sell them if I did. I drew them up based on my needs and the material I was using. Most are geometrically simple enough to design up for your needs. As for the table file for the table, shoot me an email and I'll get it to you. Which Axiom do you have?

[@michaelroth5234]

great video > Can I get a copy of the file? Also do you sell the jigs in etsy? Thank you mike

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Thank you for watching. I don't sell the jigs but they are super easy to make. I found an image of a cam clamp and just imported it in. I then scaled it and made the center hole to fit dowels I had. The hold-down clamps are nothing more than a rectangle with slots in the middle. I then cut a 1/8"x1/8" rabbet on one end to bite the top and edge when clamped down. I'd be happy to send you the file. It's in V-Carve Pro 10.5. Send me an email to [e-mail] and I'll get it to you if you have that version or Aspire.

[@brianlondon847]

Great Idea. Just bought the same machine....AXIOM AR8 for Christmas. Could you please send me the files so that I can duplicate your great work? Thanks.

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Thanks for watching.. it's a great machine and has served me well.. Send me an email to [e-mail] and I'll be happy to.

[@garyecker5564]

Chris just got my prov5 that was wondering if you could share those files. I did have a hd5 just sold it and love this machine. Been watching your videos dont stop . you are a great at what your doing. Thanks-Gary

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Thank you for watching and for the kind words. If you provide me an email, ill gladly send it. Im working on an update to the table files and additional jigs, but will send what I have.

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Oh, and congrats on the upgrade. I'm well aware of the difference when upgrading to that machine. Im so impressed with mine and how much my business and capabilities improved, im in the process of getting an Elite 8

[@garyecker5564]

thanks Chris My email is [e-mail] Thanks again

[@garyecker5564]

@@ChristcrossCrafts Thanks again [e-mail]

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

@@garyecker5564 sheck your email. Let me know what ideas you have for improvements.

[@rexboyes6811]

I have the same CNC and would love to get your file if possible.

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Shoot me an email and I'll get it to you. I'm working on the new layout and spoilboard. I'll be posting that video within the next month or so.

[@fierceflyer5]

I would appreciate having the file for Vetric. Do you have a website where I can find it?

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

I don't have a website but if you email me [e-mail] I'll send it to you.

[@michaelwilcox2490]

What size dowels are you using?

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

They are 1/4 x 1 and sometimes 1/4 x 1-1/4. If I had to do it again, I might go 5/16 diameter

[@bryanmurrell7737]

Would you happen to have that file available for download would?

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

I don't for download, but if you email me at [e-mail] I'll send you the v-carve file.

[@DMAnnotti]

I would like the file. This is great jig.

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Message me your email or leave it here and I'll get it sent out

[@mattweaver3277]

Thank you for the video. I am interested in your file for the axiom table. How do I go about getting the file

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Email me [e-mail]

[@mattweaver3277]

Email will not go through

[@parsons177]

Hey Chris, Did you have any issues with soft limits for the edge pins on the x and y axis? I'm getting a soft limit error. Thanks!

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

What I found when I upgraded from Pro to Elite was that the proximity sensors on the Elite were a few mm in compared to the Pro. This caused a soft limit X+ and Y+. I was going to adjust them, but slightly moved the pins and surfacing in instead. Even though the tables are all the same, there are some minor differences that force you to make some adjustments.

[@parsons177]

@@ChristcrossCrafts thanks Cris I'll give that a try! I just made your spoilboard jigs yesterday. Those worked great. Thank you

[@robertkrueger3902]

Hey there I am not sure if you are still active. I am in the process of ordering my Axiom elite 24X48 this will be my first cnc . I would love your file on your layout and pin placement. Also I would love to hear from an actual owner of there machines. I would love to know the plusses and minuses you have encountered your ownership of your Axiom.

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Thank you for watching. Like any machine, there have been a few small hiccups but I have loved my Axiom CNC. Not only the machine but the support after the sale. It would be tough to find a better support staff than what Axiom offers. As for the file, email me and I'll get it to you. [e-mail]

[@pj_co]

Do u happen to have the vcarve file for this available?

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

I do. Do you have desktop, pro, or aspire? Please provide me an email. You can message me if you don't want to leave it here.

[@michaelwilcox6253]

i would like to please [e-mail]

[@hibbardkopp1267]

Hello I would like the file also. Have same cnc as you, am using v-carve pro. Thanks. [e-mail]

[@davidstanfield1872]

I have vcarve pro and would appreciate a copy. Purchased the AR8 based on your recommendations! [e-mail]

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

You can check your email. Thanks for watching.

[@DarcyG-nk5nv]

I have a question and a concern.... I just purchased a Shark 520. I noticed that you had a shark as well.. but realized that you got rid of it very quickly and got an axiom... .but you mentioned how much you enjoyed the shark.... with the cost of these machines... something must of been disappointing very quickly for you to change machines... Did I make a mistake purchasing the Shark... I know that's a relative question and an opinion... but I'm concerned I just wasted my money..

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Thank you for watching and reaching our. I don't think you made a mistake, but it does depend on what you are using it for. My needs quickly changed once I got the CNC. I landed two regular customers that kept me quite busy and working late nights to keep up with their demands. I had already researched and originally wanted the Axiom, but my budget didn't allow for it. Once my production requirements stepped up, and I knew I would have steady business (I didn't plan on), I opted to upgrade. The Axiom offered more repeatability, accuracy, and higher production rates than the Shark. It allowed me to complete the jobs in less time, which greatly improved my turn-around for the customer. Plus, it uses a 3hp spindle with 1/2" shank capabilities, which is much quieter and more powerful than a router. Next Wave didn't offer that as an option. Their spindle is less powerful and only 1/8" & 1/4" shank compatible. If I were using the Shark strictly as a hobby machine, I wouldn't have made the change.

[@DarcyG-nk5nv]

@@ChristcrossCrafts Thank you for your reply... we did just start a Wood'n Crafts business last week but I would still consider where we are at right now, a hobby... maybe if business demand for the CNC work picks up, we will look into something with a bit more options.. right now your response makes me feel better about our purchase..

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

@@DarcyG-nk5nv we sell them where I work so I've played with several brands. Shark has a deal for a free spindle upgrade this month. Definitely the time to buy

[@DarcyG-nk5nv]

@@ChristcrossCrafts You are exactly correct... We took advantage of that deal and received our Shark 520 yesterday with the 2hp water cooled router deal.... now just trying to figure out how to get clipart from the thumb drive to the router.... having a good time learning... Looking forward to being a little more proficient at it...

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

@@DarcyG-nk5nv there are a couple of good folks here on YT. Check out learnyourcnc (also has a great website to learn vectric) and Mark Lindsay.

[@perrybensick4147]

Great video. I got my AR8 2 weeks ago and it's my first CNC. I love it, but I've run into all kinds of things that have slowed down getting started. I thought the best place to start would be laying out a grid, but I keep getting an x+ soft limit error when I try to run the file. If you would please share your file, I'd live to compare it to mine to see what I'm doing wrong. Thanks in advance. [e-mail]

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

The first mistake I made on my design was assuming my table would cut 24x48 (it wont). X+ means the right side of your design exceeds the cutting capacity of the machine (even. 001 will cause this). Home & zero the machine, then send it all the way Y+. Write down that number from the controller (in mm) and repeat for X+. Change your design to be read in MM then make a rectangle the machine dimensions recorded earlier. Make that your new border by aligning it bottom/left. Then you can convert back to inch and your new border should be correct. Align your current design bottom/left with the new border, then cut away everything outside. That will fix your issue and give you dead on borders. I believe I even came in an additional .002" to allow for errors.

[@perrybensick4147]

@@ChristcrossCrafts Thanks for the quick response. I did exactly as you instructed above and now I'm getting both the X+ and Y+ soft limit errors. After homing and zeroing everything my table is (610,1210)mm. I created my work space at 610x1210mm, created my rectangle at 610x1210 mm, then converted to inches and created my grid. Everything was created from the bottom left or the (0,0) position. I even used an offset of .002". I'm am new to all of this, but I've always considered myself pretty computer savvy. This should be a relatively simple task, but for some reason, I seem to be struggling.

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

@@perrybensick4147 everything seems right but sometimes the offset will go out, not in and require a (-) to make things work. For the grid you don't need the offset. Try 609x1209 without an offset. I'll shoot you my file for reference.

[@Madmaxian1088]

I sent you an email.

[@jimmyfitz]

#badass

[@ChristcrossCrafts]

Thank you sir!