CNC Shark Forum

It's that time of year when I need to make 100+ awards for a half marathon. They will be 3.75x4.5 and this year I'm using 3/4" cedar. I'm not real happy with the carving using .25 90 or 60 V bits, letters too deep and not crisp enough. I tried some engraving bits but got too much tear out. I'm looking for sugestions on tool selection and settings. I didn't have this issue last year using Eastern Red Cedar, so I'm not sure if it's the lumberyard cedar, or if I can adjust the tool settings to get a better product.

BTW, the V-bits worked fine on the cedar when making larger signs, it just at a smaller scale it's not so good.

Thanks,

Steve B

Steve,
When I want to reduce the chances of having tear out, I spray at least two coats of clear lacquer on the surface before machining.
This seems to help stabilize the material for me.
Bob

Thanks, 2 coats of paint and new sharp bit did the trick. I didn't notice that the old one had dulled, but the viva la difference when I put in a new one. I need ot get a magnifying glass as obviously these old eyes can't see the change.