Making a DIY CNC machine with limited tools

[@benmakeseverything]

Please see my follow up video for answers to questions and more info: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pJ26iZyimrqGmLc If you want the 3D files and wiring diagrams, check here: github.com/BenMakesEverything/Ben_CNC_v1

[@dieSpinnt]

Thanks for sharing your experience and showing this project, Ben!:) Just a sidenode: Next time you plug in a mains-line power cord, don't move on, just wait for some seconds and think about it: What would happen, if the male contacts where swapped with the female jacks .......... Right! We would all be dead by now. Now look what you have designed/done with your motor power connectors (btw. connectors are a good idea). They literally invite disaster[1]:) [1] Here the danger is not so much for the well-being of us humans (although it is never a good idea to have current-providing and potentially live contacts fully out in the open, flapping in the breeze), but for the well-being of the machine. Sh.. can happen in this configuration and it WILL happen! Especially in a place with metal shavings and dirt all around like a workshop. Just swap it around, so that the female part of the connector is the "power-providing"-side. Good machining!:)

[@DETHTWUKTAUR]

Hey Ben - good stuff. I'm also thinking of making a Router CNC table like this (>'.')^

[@uproarink]

@@dieSpinnt I don't fully understand your comment. Can you elaborate since I'm planning a similar build.

[@slimel-gharbi8170]

Oh yeah !!! Good and fantastic Job ! Thanks for sharing

[@ertugrulemre2525]

Hello, I have a Makita RP2301FC milling machine. Can I use it on a workbench like this?

[@richardskull5279]

I am a very well experienced machinist of 25 years. I am impressed. You took on a huge project and came out successful. Great job!

[@blaschii]

My jaw dropped when you showed what your machine is capable of (although the build process itself was already hella impressive). Kudos to you and your skills!

[@TheBinklemNetwork]

seriously. I've settled on a masuter pro from fox alien with the 300 w spindle and... it is not doing the job on 1mm thick aluminum :(

[@yobekorb]

😊

[@oliverer3]

It wasn't until you said that this was your first project with a CAD tool I truly realized just how much of an enormous task this must have been for you, truly impressed.

[@LouisKleiman]

Not an engineer!?!? You may not be formally trained, but you are absolutely an engineer. Great job!

[@amorton94]

Unfortunately for him and people like him (me), that's not how that works in the real world.

[@6022]

@@amorton94 Honestly, I've known plenty of engineering jobs where they'd take a documented design and build of something like this as adequate proof of qualification. Lots of engineering jobs are very pragmatic. If you can make something work, and as a bonus, you have an understanding of the importance of keeping costs down, that is what you really need.

[@DespaceMan]

@@6022 Engineers today are usually a person who specialized in one particular field or section of engineering, I've come across many engineers some I know personally & yes 95% of them do know everything about how a combustion engines works but to fix or build one they can't do. If you doing stuff for yourself you got no one to prof to but if you want a land a job you require a white piece of paper to prove that you jumped through hoops & passed a test.

[@6022]

@@DespaceMan I know successful engineers who never got a degree. It depends on the company. Some places are smart enough to know that degrees aren't everything.

[@Randorandom232]

@@DespaceMan yeah fixing and maintaining stuff is what technicians and mechanics do. Engineering is more theoretical and design.

[@haveagocommentator983]

"Far from perfect" you say. One of the fist things you learn as a machinist is nothing is "perfect". You did a great job , much respect.

[@DIYerGuy]

I am an engineer (electronics) and I would not attempt such a project as you have. I have to say, though you're not an "engineer", you are in fact what an engineer is. That you have been successful is a reflection of your careful and studied approach to such a monumental project, weighing the pros and cons and tradeoffs to each decision. That is to a great deal what real engineering involves. You mention in your video that it took you almost 1 year to complete your project. I can appreciate the time involved. Complex projects do take time and usually more than we initially realize. One thing I would have asked myself considering such a project as yours is whether it would be cost-effective for me to spend the time and money and do the entire job myself vs. purchasing a pre-built CNC. There are advantages and tradeoffs to both approaches of course. With your approach you learned things that someone purchasing a CNC would likely not learn. And of course, building it yourself gives you the unique feeling of satisfaction that one does not get from purchasing a similar CNC. That you built it yourself also gives you the ability to repair and/or modify your machine in ways that one ordinarily would not be able to do. On the other hand, purchasing a CNC allows you to get to the job(s) at hand almost immediately. Those are just some of the tradeoffs with building it yourself vs purchasing. In any case, your results are quite remarkable. You might consider offering your CNC as a kit; I'm sure it will sell. Of course, putting together a kit and making it into a money-making proposition is a completely different kind of challenge. But considering your excellent approach I think you'd be equally successful. Unless I missed it, one thing you don't mention in the video is the resolution in the X, Y, and Z axis - something that would be of interest to others. Best of luck with your future projects and congratulations on a very impressive result!

[@Doingstuff.since76]

The main point I would add to your excellent review of this guys project is he really wanted to build it heavy duty and made it so. I am no engineer either although I believe that I can do, build, repair, make anything I set my mind to. It was my father's unique view as a project manager for Australia's only telecommunications in the 60's till the mid 90's. Also his relentles and high expectations of me. I am of a very high I.q. but that's only according to some rules and interpretation. My father would be in his workshop where he would rig sailing boat masts, strip down old vessels and rebuild them. Make custom rigging systems which I am certain helped him win the National titles in the class he focused on. The Corsair. I'd hang around interested but wanting to be observing not really want to solve problems he already probably knew the answer to. But it was simply teaching me how to get my mind to simply and quickly see solutions by thinking "OUTSIDE THE BOX!" That box I guess is the box that constrains most others looking at the same issues. It really was drummed into me. Think wildly outside what you may already assume the right answer is. I remember him having a mast, a blank mast, tapered aluminium about 5 metres long which is extruded and included a c section track in profile if the mast was cut across. He said that these rectangular fittings needed to go into the mast. They were little blocks with little shelves in them for the use of fine lines or stainless wire cable to go up the outside and into the mast then Back down inside. I looked at it closely and was about 7 or 8 and always wanted to get it right... these little tests. I thought about it and decided I would drill a maybe 5mm hole inside each corner then a 3mm hole in a line inside the lines denoting the cut out. He looked pleased then said ok what next. Remembering his father's rule that a tool is used for its purpose only and not used as a stupid thing to get a job done in a poor fashion. I didn't care and said I'd get an old chisel and cut through the little joining bits between holes. He said excellent. He did not think of that. Then what? I'd file the rest of the holes flat till the rectangular cut out was exactly as it should be! He was so happy. I know because he would be overheard telling hos sailing mates about such stuff. Even though he never or rarely congratulated me on little brilliant mental achievements I overheard him telling people about me and it was then I realised he did it all to sharpen my mind. My brother also has this ability and can do anything at all as well. Dad said he regretted not becoming an engineer. I do also. But I am an e ginger in ability and trained in Surgical engineering. Small engineering shop building everything from raw materials. Bending ultra thin wall 7/8 and 3/4 inch .028" wall chrome molly tube using mandrels we made and all by hand. No motorised bending. We got it perfect often.a big thing to be proud of. Milling all stuff. Punching out parts. Bending flat steel.casting aluminium parts. Brazing chrome molly frames and mild steel. Tig welding alloy and stainless for racing wheelchairs and showering chairs. I did the full apprenticeship In upholstery, but never sent to college as the boss feared any employee leaving. With proof in paper it was easy. But I care not. I was skilled in many many amazing things I use daily. I learned immense skills at my high school which I chose as every module was recognised by the state and federal competency and teaching standards. I soaked up every tiny detail of ever single lesson and despite the other boys telling me to shut the fk up... we want to leave before the bell! I still picked the teachers brains and my results reflected this. I use these skills daily also. I made some great choices early on concerning my future. Out I took a break from making these and had a long period of being a fk up.

[@beppe_c60]

This is what I mean for a REAL Tutorial. A design, main measures, components list. A great help to understand what to do. Really good job, Ben. Not for the object only, but for the excellent way You followed to present it.

[@mattivirta]

but need be "tutorial" better, this not tell how softwares install, lot problem if use raspberry pi or linux computer install good shit GRBL or linuxcnc software, cam soft what can use linux, limit switch has many builder problem need tell how make, what size spindle and spindle speed controller problems, only good has use aluminium frame and big 60x60 profile, expensive lot, and ballscrews super expensive use, windows OS not must use because not have safety realtime OS, need use linuxcnc OS because have lot better and true realtime controll, and this safety lot more. cad program need if want build good frame all dimension come right before cutting parts. and drill holes right,accurate. need know all roeque powers how and were need frame strong etc,beam need lot more strong support not twist.z-rail need be supported rails not only worst rod, lot torque power go to z axis and not accurate and weak lot if not strong. this some little point for my vkill i has build hobby users and small factory many 100 cnc and know what need know.

[@shingabiss]

My compliments to your ingenuity and resourcefulness! I first built a pcb mini milling machine in 1995, pre maker explosion, wrote code in VB4 and wrote step bit patterns directly though FETS to motors via the pc parallel port. I know the task is multi faceted and can appreciate your efforts. Proffessional results!

[@szymonszewcjr]

Algorithm has spoken! Hello from Poland! 😃

[@PiefacePete46]

Algorithm is alive and well... Hello from New Zealand! 👍

[@kevinldaniel]

Same lol

[@robertkaminski1781]

Me to

[@Артём-м4д4б]

Hello from 🇷🇺 Russia. F❤🎉ing poland

[@robertkaminski1781]

@@Артём-м4д4б Russia should be cut off from internet. You have mental like KRLD. Brains washed from hundred years....

[@tomsdreamshopworx]

Just going down the rabbit hole of KZbin videos on building your own CNC. Nice job on your build!

[@PiefacePete46]

@ @TomsDreamshop Worx : Ahhh, the wonders of "The University of KZbin"! How quickly we (Oldies!) have forgotten the hours spent wading through the shelves at our libraries, or eagerly waiting for next month's edition of our favourite magazine! Have fun!

[@Bu5H84]

Hahahaha i too have been down this Rabbit hole, i miss my CNC machine

[@Ding_Bat]

A word of advice: Get going on 3D design while doing your research (if you don’t have it nailed down already). This will go a long way is helping you design your CNC. If you cannot design, you cannot CNC. Garbage in = garbage out. 😉😉 Good luck!!

[@winulff7082]

Have you hit the goldmine of New Yorkshire Workshop and his homemade 4x8 cnc? 5 hours worth of pure building videos. Super high precision. Sadly he doesnt speak a word, but its a nice look at what goes into building large scale cnc, and the steps (and mistakes) taken to achieve precision. highly recommend watching.

[@Mr.Thermistor7228]

​@@PiefacePete46cant even imagine that. Us young generation take for granted all the information available to us in a split second. If everything I've learned online had to be re-learned through books and physical paper, I would probably be at like 2% total of everything I've learned with a computer

[@JPToto]

Sir, this is EXCEPTIONALLY well done. Definitely the best and most practical DIY CNC build I've seen on KZbin. Just the right amount of detail too. 👏🏻

[@FredrikSvensson1979]

"How hard can it be?" Having this mentality and being stubborn has helped me a lot in life. Pretty quickly, or at the latest half way through what ever it is I thought I could do, my naivity usually dawns on me, but then the stubborness kicks in and I see it through any way. I've learnt so much this way, and I am really thankful for my slightly stupid but positive naivity. The only real way you can fail at things is by never trying at all.

[@benmakeseverything]

Well said!

[@jackryan4313]

My friend, you now have a product. Don't keep this to yourself. You genuinely have an opportunity to give yourself the chance to never have to worry financially, as well as your kids You did amazing. I showed my dad, who is also a CNC machinist, and he too was both impressed and jealous. I'm truly amazed. Congrats

[@willbe7442]

I’ve never seen you channel before but this came up recommended. I already own an open builds workbee v3 kit. And to be honest, even though I have spent over $3000 and many, many man hours setting it up, I think yours is way better! Absolutely brilliant. Well done and congrats

[@jonaswinkelmann8203]

Unbelievable that such a small youtuber makes so high quality videos. Keep going such a great vid!

[@mikeeddy1099]

Mate like wow. I really don't think I've ever seen someone do what you have done here. I work in fabrication and we use industrial branded machinery and I kid you not, I haven't met someone who can produce a detailed and accurate product on a million dollar machine than what you have produced here. Also, your knowledge on CNC programming and CAD drawing is up there. I commend you sir.

[@RandomAudioGuys]

I watched your entire video and I am impressed, I started with a Buildyourcnc 4x8 kit, and is amazing how much you learn by putting one together and the ups and downs, I then purchased a Laguna IQ for our shop, 2x3 ft. And later a Industrial Artisan 408 to replace the Buildyourcnc ( Way over priced but they do work). And I was imaginging this taking you awhile to do and when you said 1 year, I was like, yes this stuff goes through so much that people will never understand in a 14 minute video. With all that said you did a very impressive video and kept it to the point, clean cut and full of the right knowledge that matters to someone wanting to build one. And remember this, you have to build the machine so it can build the machines, now you can mill all your parts on it and fine tune it, But you did an amazing job and I am very proud to become a new subscriber to your channel. I hope you find your place on the KZbin platform because you deserve it, pulling off a video that good so early on. PS, lasers are fun too :) Started with a cheap 400.00 Ebay laser and now have a Laguna EX-C 36x50. You should give one a try, they are far more amazing than a CNC when you learn how to use it to your advantage where a CNC cannot do tight corners.

[@benmakeseverything]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed the video. I've actually been thinking of either adding a laser attachment, or just building a separate laser cutter as well.

[@alwayscensored6871]

@@benmakeseverything Guys have been cutting 19mm ply with a 20W laser diode. Not fast but it does work with air assist.

[@amorton94]

@Random Audio Guy Your laser is a CNC machine. A pet peeve of mine is when people only call routers/mills a CNC machine. Semantics really, I know, but still. A 3d printer is a CNC machine. Your laser is a CNC machine. The router/gantry mill in this video is a CNC machine. CNC simply refers to how the machine is controlled, by numbers/code sent to it by a computer.

[@olasod1]

I know many engineers that cant do 20% of what you do. The difference between them and you, is that you are a born engineer and they just have an education. Good job👍🏼🙏

[@PlayNowWorkLater]

Great project! Amazed you could put that together for around $1000. Can’t wait to see what you will build next. Make sure you show us your tool collection as it grows. I imagine you’ll have a shop with all kinds of stuff in there in no time. Good luck!

[@tomreijtenbach7154]

Great build, best practical tutorial I have seen so far! I like that you condensed everything in a 15 minute video while still remaining clear. One tip I have from building my CNC is that those loose wires going into your arduino might cause you problems in the future. I would suggest making a shield with screw terminals to effectively lock the wires in. If a step or direction wire vibrates loose during machining, one or more axis can fail, resulting in a crash.

[@benmakeseverything]

Good idea. I should probably do that, but I also might switch it do something other than an arduino as the controller at some point.

[@Ding_Bat]

Really great job! I followed a similar route, but I built a WAY smaller prototype (roughly 400 x 500 x 150mm) out of MDF first. Kind of a proof of concept designed in SketchUp. All the electronics for a larger machine were installed, though. It worked fantastically well - so much so that I used it as is for more than a year! During that time, I designed V2 of my CNC using Fusion 360. This one built out of aluminium extrusions and 16mm aluminium. The biggest change was to use 2 motors on the Y-Axis due to the size of the new machine. A lot of lessons were learnt from building the first machine, so all of those were incorporated into the new one. The new one was 1500mm x 1000mm x 450mm. The best part was that I used my MDF CNC to cut the parts for the new CNC. It was slow, but it worked, and it was accurate enough to enable me to assemble the new machine in less than a day! The only tools I used in constructing V1 were a jigsaw, handheld drill, screwdrivers, Allen keys, taps and glue. With V2 it was pretty much taps and Allen keys. I recently upgraded to a 1500W liquid cooled spindle, which made a MASSIVE difference. I have my eyes set on building me a similarly sized 100W laser CNC over the next couple of years… Happy CNC-ing!!

[@benmakeseverything]

Thanks! Sounds like you put a lot of thought into your designs. I like the idea of using the first machine to make parts for the next one!

[@treyvnl]

I’m currently going through my own CNC build and this gives me good inspiration and some ideas to implement on mine. Thanks for documenting the process so well.

[@benmakeseverything]

Glad to hear the video helped. Best of luck with your build!

[@lUnderdogl]

Use linear guide ways, not linear bearings. It will be stiffer.

[@benmakeseverything]

@@lUnderdogl I agree with this, If I built another machine I'd use those.

[@lUnderdogl]

@@benmakeseverything If you need any help you can write

[@vincentrodak9734]

"I'm not an engineer" (after engineering and fabricating a very capable and functional CNC router) ;) Great video by the way.

[@Elymyntal]

Nice! You've given me the practical, not ridiculously expensive inspiration I've been looking for all week. Much appreciated.

[@trisys2000]

I went through the video for a 2nd time and I tried to make a parts list as well as shop for the parts online, and I think I was able to find everything for about $1500. You may be able to save some if you shop around more, but as of today, I would expect to spend about that much to make it. Great video and great design.

[@CP-fz4sr]

PLEASE. Can you put a parts list? Or even better, where u got them from? I got some of the parts, as I do wood working, but I never built a CNC, and I been wanting to do one for years. I would appreciate the info. Thanks.

[@Mr.Thermistor7228]

​@@CP-fz4srive seen other commenters saying that parts are listed in the description, might be a good place to check

[@dcurry7287]

@@CP-fz4sr At the $1500 price mark, you're pretty close to a PrintNC, and if you have the ability to make one of those, you'll have much more of a community to help you make it.

[@steveg2021]

legitimately channels like this have inspired some of my favorite projects and i can't express my gratitude more.

[@q011519]

This is amazing, I would love a cost break down and maybe a build guide. I know I'm asking a lot but I would love to build one on my own.

[@joshuamahon260]

If you look in the description, he did put the products he used. I would think he didn't put the price as the prices may fluctuate. I haven't done the math myself, but another commenter stated around $1000, which for what it is, which is a really good price point all things considered. Many comparable CNCs would be at least double that. If you're just wanting to get a cheap/inexpensive machine, I would say this isn't the project for you.

[@到青蛙]

Just about to embark on the same journey so your project was a must see and an inspiration. I love the way you housed the electronics, I'm stealing that idea.

[@benmakeseverything]

Glad to hear you found it helpful. Best of luck on your project!

[@rossk4864]

What a great project! I'm sure it required a lot of perseverance. I am an engineer and a life-long DIYer and have thought about building one of these but weigh in the balance the challenge, amount of effort and time required against purchasing a factory unit. It would probably require several engineers of a few different disciplines, structural, mechanical, and electrical, to come up with the plans and specifications, but likely not a one could actually perform the construction. The latter would require a machinist. You accomplished all of these tasks!

[@FerociousPancake888]

Yes! Someone has actually used DIY in their title and actually did a DIY project without tools that cost six figures! This is awesome. I’d love to build one. Maybe sometime in the future you could attempt building a 4th axis mod!

[@benmakeseverything]

Thanks! I have been thinking about adding a 4th axis attachment.

[@mil3k]

This machine already has 4th axis. It is C axis, rotation around Z. It is done by interpolation in XY plane. You can see it in a segment where the hole grid is made. That helical/tornado milling is exactly that. 5th axis is A or B, rotations around X and Y. In that case it can be done as indexing or continues rotation. First one allow to set the material on demanded angle and carry on an operation as usual. Second allows to simultaneous rotation in A or B and milling in XYZC.

[@eddymack8568]

You are absolutely an engineer. Great job. What you made is incredible

[@michaelrechtin]

This is really well done! Looking forward to future projects!

[@jmotti23]

I was not prepared for the product showcase 😳 this is bloody inspiring!

[@kylepayton1036]

Such a great video. From the build to your explanations to your projects to editing it was all very well done. On the way to build my own now

[@Adanos_ger]

As others have already stated .. this randomly came up in my recommended videos. Great effort there, really like what you've created and the decisions you made.

[@jakubpetr4830]

Hi Ben, well done! Since I made few of DIY CNC machines, I would recomend 2 crews, one at each side for the Y axis. Because of twist under the higher load for one screw in the middle. (I had the same design at my first router and changed it to this configuration.) Also the USB connection could have issues, I end up using ESS (Ethernet Smooth Stepper with Mach 4 software) using ethernet cabel, that has more rigid comunication protocol, but there are other options like MASSO or PoKeys57. Offcourse these upgrades are for higher budget project. Last recomendation are hybrid servo stepper motors(idealy with error output to stop the machine). Wish you all the best! Have FUN with your machine.

[@benmakeseverything]

Good suggestions, I agree that 2 screws is a superior configuration. I was just trying to save money on the build using 1. If I built another machine I'd use 2, and also look into the servo motors as well.

[@pepaw]

How much of a difference do the servo motors make vs a stepper? I would thing magnitudes accuracy difference? Worth the money?

[@doulos5322]

​​​@@pepawservers make zero difference in accuracy. In a closed loop system once You've actually missed a step. You've already ruined your work piece anyway. Most systems at least in hybrid closed loop systems. Once you have missed steps, it just sends an alarm to trigger to stop the motors

[@imanutnur7]

I was a field service engineer for Mazak several years ago and when I retired I made a CNC in my shop. It worked great. I had two separate versions, one had the axles running on precision rods and later I used aluminum 90-degree rods with bearings running on them which was very accurate. I get bored easily and since played with a lathe and lately do intarsia.

[@SuperSadom]

I just finished building the handrail on my deck kzbin.infoUgkxfQ5_mgwq6PcudJvAH25t-I4D-3cTPz4z and used this great little router to clean up the top rail before the final sanding and stain. It was light weight but packed lots of power. Either size battery didn't seem to make it top heavy and I'm a 64 yr old women so I really appreciated how easy it was to use...................... CORDLESS only way to go !!

[@QAYWSXEDCCXYDSAEWQ]

I love the wiring thing too! I beginning to think this machine is better than you would get commercially.

[@comfortablydoomed6280]

More bigger is always more better

[@hotchow8766]

I subscribed after I saw your finished projects. People can talk a good game but the proof is in the production. You did well, better than I thought it would turn out.

[@tamashamas6193]

This is an incredible build, its so clean as well. Curious what the total cost was? I'm also trying to build such a machine but at a smaller scale with hopes it will cut aluminium!

[@benmakeseverything]

I bought most of the parts about 2 years ago so I don't know the exact cost, but I believe it was around $1000, possibly $1200. Best of luck on your build!

[@noweare1]

@@benmakeseverythingI guessed about $2500, maybe as of today it would be that much.

[@UrosRodic-qd8ve]

That surely wasn't cheap as people would imagine it to be... Nice build... coming from an engineer-constructor, props for your first time... welcome to the club!

[@FloweringElbow]

Hey Ben, loved that. There sure is a lot to learn when you set out to build a CNC! Congrats on such a project, Those are some cool engravings, what wood is that you're using?

[@benmakeseverything]

The two lighter color engravings were done in maple, the sea serpent was sapele, and the skull was cherry. I think maple works the best overall of what I've tried so far.

[@FloweringElbow]

@@benmakeseverything Thanks Ben, good to know. Also in awe of your painting skills, on that cherry one.

[@grathado28]

Engineers are only really useful for making them cheap and not over engineering, The information's on the internet only self-doubt stops you from achieving what you want Good job sir very cool

[@erikslagter3231]

what was the total build cost?

[@benmakeseverything]

I bought most of the components in early 2020 so its been a while and I didn't really keep the receipts. I would say I spent around $1000 - $1200 in total, but its hard to estimate because I bought some parts I didn't end up using. That doesn't include the tools I used to make the machine of course.

[@carl7162]

Dude your a pretty sick artist way beyond your mechanical skills. A true craftsman. Nice work and beautiful art.

[@olenfersoi8887]

Like others here, I am totally impressed by how good the projects are that you made...and the machine that made them!

[@SalaziNazz]

Wow, your DIY CNC machine build is seriously impressive! 🙌 Great job on tackling such a big project with limited tools!

[@josegarciacas]

Hey man!! Great job!! Another engeneer here, just add pressure air supply and also an extractor, both in line. That will helps with the temperature and also will leave everything cleaner. Thank you for your job!

[@JuanManuel123ify]

Impresionante compañero.....Toda una obra de arte.....Mil gracias por su aportación a la comunidad.....Ya me he dado de alta de inmediato en su canal......A la espera de que siga subiendo más contenido tan interesante.....Un gran abrazo desde Las Islas Canarias (España).............Bendiciones.................

[@joefog964]

Very well done. In case you ever have to tap tons of holes in metal in the future, opt for threaded inserts/helicoils. That way if you ever damage threads you can reuse the hole and not have to retread a hole.

[@Astral_Knowledge]

Love the cnc! The only thing I would suggest is swapping to polycarb on your enclosure so if anything gets flung at it it won't shatter.

[@rccanuck4473]

OMG that's art I made one out of plywood and threaded rod . You've inspired me to do it right. Great Job

[@TwoToolDesign]

I cant tell you how many iterations I went through I had a reliably built CNC.. Yours looks and works great on your first try!

[@alwayscensored6871]

Shielded motor cables, nice tip. Especially useful on bigger machines.

[@Z3n1tHL0rD]

Indeed i will buy some of that for mine

[@Sly_Wolf_1]

I'm just speechless 😶...... And totally envious! Magnificent machine and carvings.

[@joemilich]

Holy shit. You are dedicated, my dude. It turned out looking fantastic. And your projects look awesome.

[@johnprosser2142]

I can’t believe how well you have done with that!

[@dh1569]

"...far from perfect"? I'd call that pretty much perfect. Outstanding video.

[@kevingw5379]

You're not an engineer by training but hell yea, you are an engineer in the mind. So you are an engineer either way! Thoroughly enjoyed the build by the way, every minute of it.

[@carloshenriquecoutinho1199]

Awesome, great results. One day I'll do mine too. Waiting for more videos!! Congratulations Ben.

[@janiwirman]

Hey! I just made a very similar CNC at home myself, although a bit smaller than yours and added a tiny 4th axis. You make it look easy my friend! ...I wish I'd seen your video before I started my project because you got some pretty cool ideas there. Kudos! A fellow "not an engineer"

[@bogopouk8551]

Algorithm works. Thank u 4 sharing ur story.💜 That's was one of my dreams to build things on my own. Cant afford a single linear rail! So keep watching those videos n dreaming😯!

[@suntzu6122]

Nice. I love finding new channels like this!

[@iankathurimakinyua1145]

The algorithm has led me to you and i accept the challenge in a year I'll take your lead and work on this thank you

[@MikeMcAuliffe-g2f]

Thanks. Appreciate that you reported that it took a year. That is helpful.

[@dawnmarie6480]

Omg I'm so glad I found your video bc I've been going on about the different tools and various uses of the same basic framework designs

[@JR_Engineering133]

i find it so awesome, you basically buidl the same thing as me, usign the same rails, also 800 and 600mm long, same configuration, same goals, also a simple router as motor, the only diffrence is thew z axis assembly which i made out of some 3d printed parts and stuff i machined in school

[@Mainswitch55]

Hey man, i know 2024 but i want to give you my respect and i´m saying this as a machinist working on a 33t beast with a 4000mm table where i can put on pieces up to 8000kg 🙂 And yes it´s 5 axis with Heidenhain iTNC 530 control ;-) I´m always interested in machinig and looking up talented guys trying building something for their own use... Sir, you did a great job! We could discuss for hour what, why and how to make all this better but for a first try i really have to give you credits, very well and nice done!!! Great job!!! ♥ Kind regards from Austria Christian

[@benmakeseverything]

Thank you, I appreciate that!

[@daitedve1984]

It's really cool video! All interesting (and necessary/important) details are covered, making video practically useful for us, same "non-engineers" 😆 Thank you! My greatest like! What I doubt as a real engineer is Y axis: you move a WHOLE CONSTRUCTION on a single rod! (ball screw) It's weight of vertical supports, X axis, Z-mech assembly and a router (more it powerful, more it weights). Obviously you create load on the screw (actually on NUT on this screw). I would make TWO screws on each side of machine, join 'em w belt and put a whole X-Z-construction on a rollers (also frequent solution). Then all load comes on roll wheels and you simply move things with ONE st.motor, which rounds TWO cogs, which are joined to long screws. Hope you got my idea 😆

[@roberthardy2013]

As an engineer I am truly impressed AND it’s in Metric not freedom units!

[@Gaming_Biker]

Didn't notice it in the video, but you could add a window opening or some perforation w/ a foam filter on one side of the enclosure, then put an opening for a vacuum/exhaust system on another panel - preferably opposite of the "intake" filter side. It would increase the noise by opening the box a little & adding the vacuum, but you would gain a more self-cleaning system & would keep your work material & tools cooler to boot. Currently going thru a Machinist Technician course & that's pretty much what metal CNC Mills or Lathes do w/ liquid coolant. Coolant keeps everything cool & washes chips out of the enclosure & is run thru a filter & recycled back into the machine.

[@benmakeseverything]

You are correct, I don't have a chip/dust evacuation system and that would be a good addition. I plan to re-do the enclosure and add one in the future. Thanks for watching!

[@squidigin9515]

I feel like the KZbin algorithm has fundamentally misunderstood the type of CNC I’m interested in

[@TonyHulk]

I like the "made this to save money" lol I value my time WAY WAY more then the amount saved in the build

[@jules9923]

i am doing a similar project of my own. although, quite a bit smaller. more of a desktop cnc router. I'm a bit short on budget atm so project is on hold but i have most of the big hardwares. next purchase should be electronics. mine is belt driven. this vid gave me more motivation to finish it especially when i heard you say it took you a yr. thanks

[@BEdmonson85]

You're doing something right, YT just recommended this video to me. Nice work.

[@trados68]

Bloody awesome video and commentary. Just like you, I have always wanted a CNC machine, however, I did not want to go with a China cheapie. You have inspired me now to build my own CNC router, and this video will make all the difference. Thank you so much! 😀

[@benmakeseverything]

Glad you enjoyed the video! Good luck on your build.

[@wayne6318]

WOW, you are one very clever man, to take on something so complex and achieve something so good. My hat goes off to you, and you've inspired me to see if I can achieve something similar. Hope to see more great videos from you in the future.

[@caretchara]

You are an engineer. You don't blink at all!

[@isaacsmothers820]

I was mesmerized by your work!! Very impressive. You were extremely descriptive and informative. Thank you for sharing your wonderful build with us 😊

[@ArthLud]

Oh man, you did a great job. I would like to make one too but I am not so skilled and what I need is an easy step-by-step guide.

[@noahagnew6517]

DVD control box is clever and clean looking.

[@donepearce]

My latest spoil board has lost its matrix of hold-down holes. They are seldom where you want them. Now I just make a new hole where I need it and use furniture type threaded fasteners that insert from below. They are far stronger than the glued-in ones and you can really lean into the Allen key. Also, holding the job down is far less important than stopping it moving sideways. To that end I have 3d printed a bunch of cams and wedges that stop any kind of movement.

[@spacecraftbuildingservices]

Wow. You clearly are an engineer at heart! Great video. Very helpful and inspiring. Thanks

[@ebernabeo]

Further proof that hard work and determination, make a successful outcome! Great job!

[@rhebostatfibulator6124]

Good Job, look forward to more from your channel. I went down the same rabbit hole over the last couple years and it's amazing how similar our results are. I went with large spindle/vfd and ESS to Gecko drives. Also had several large pcs of 1" T6 and access to lathe & mill but overall design turned out very similar. Keep em coming.

[@guipuinam370]

I do love the fantasy-themed end-products you created! thanks for sharing your year of work! XD

[@rRobertSmith]

As a seasoned electrician with extensive experience in wiring control boxes, you should have used cable penetration bushings (such as Part #S2212) instead of jacks to reduce the chance of additional failure points and lower costs and labor. The inside of the control box could also be organized with strategically placed cable ties to minimize the risk of short circuits. Despite the over-drilled appearance of the z-axis mounting plate, this project was well executed and could be packaged and sold as a kit with some modifications.

[@benmakeseverything]

Thank you, I'll consider those suggestions for any future upgrades or other machines.

[@MagnusKlo]

This channel is going to explode within the next year!

[@YerBrwnDogAteMyRabit]

Watched this twice I enjoyed it so much and it flowed so well. I usually can't even watch something ONCE w/out getting distracted. GREAT job, esp with crappy hand tools. Super impressive.

[@pguid]

Awesome thanks. The version im building is using a rasberry pi 5 with a 20W Optical Power Laser Cutting Module and Dremmel.

[@paulroberts7315]

As I am sure it has been mentioned a copious amount of times, that ,Ben, was absolutely brilliant, A huge Tick V.G. from me. To be quite honest I would love a parts list and construction manual

[@Martin-uj6zn]

Alright man, this is my next project. Thank your for making such an easy-to-follow guide!

[@benmakeseverything]

Best of luck on your build!

[@davidspisak1837]

Great job Sir! You definitely have an Engineering mind. Don't ever let anything stop your imagination from spinning! I have close to 10 years of Machine Tool Wiring and finally getting the opportunity to get into programming. Started with a $20 screwdriver set and nothing else. Don't let a piece of paper hold you back!

[@happygilmore2100]

You did an amazing job, when there is a will, there is a way.

[@DM-me3gb]

Very good job you did there! Not only the video is top tier, but also youre CNC is looking good and works just fine.

[@roverdad]

I thought about doing this myself but couldn’t find plans that I liked and don’t feel comfortable doing everything from scratch. This looks awesome though. Thanks for sharing!

[@Crus0e]

god damn brother you did everything without any experience in this field? and you "only" have 2.6k subs? that is crazy you are really amazing and underrated