Woodworking started out as a simple craft for making handy and useful pieces out of wood. Through the ages, it slowly developed into a specialized craftsmanship mostly mastered by men. Today, woodworking is into another level with the introduction of CNC not too long ago.
What is CNC?
Once a taboo subject among woodworking professionals and hobbyists alike, CNC is now accepted as an indispensable aid in the craft of woodworking, carpentry and other related fields. With CNC, they are able to produce some amazing pieces with complex and sophisticated shapes that enhance their work.
Computer Numerical Control
Basically, CNC means computer numerical control. When applied to woodworking, it simply means using today’s computer technology and applying it into the craft.
In layman’s terms, computer programs automate and control everything how the various woodworking machines work, from the very simple to the very complex. In effect, they all become CNC machines operated and run by computer files programmed by the users themselves.
Some CNC machines also have built-in design programs where the programmers (who are mostly the woodworkers and artisans themselves) can make changes on the fly. Today, aside from furniture and millwork companies, master craftsmen and amateurs are all embracing the CNC technology.
Advantages
One of the big reasons for adopting CNC into their craft is the fact that the technology affords so many possibilities and advantages without doing harm to the authenticity of their work.
In fact, as some enthusiasts cheerfully declare, the innovation only added to the fine quality and uniqueness of their creations. They are quick to add that their personal touches are all still there in their work, albeit done faster now than before.
Where precise-fitting assemblies (dados, rabbets, inlays, arches, bas relief carvings) used to be difficult to produce using the traditional tools, CNC technology did all of them quickly and efficiently.
Templates and versions
Knock-down furniture pieces are notorious for being very time-consuming in designing and getting the parts together perfectly. With CNC, digital versions of the design and the engineering are tried out first before even touching and cutting any actual material.
On the computer, modifying the design to adjust the fit can be done in a jiffy. You can even take an existing design and make new sizes or new shapes or new versions. You can even make a totally new product out of it.
Starter sets
Choosing specific CNC tools and machines is tricky because of the differences of each one’s needs. Check with professionals, the Internet, journals and magazines, and your colleagues regarding some basic woodworking CNC machines.
Discuss with experts the options of having detached or built-in software programs of your CNC machines and all their pros and cons. All of these must answer your own questions and your specific needs.
If you are a pro, you would know by now what you need. After your research, you may be able to get everything you need at the least cost and stress. For all the woodworkers of the world, CNC is here to stay.
