Many people don’t even consider owning a cnc router because of the perceived capital cost of the equipment. What they don’t know however, is that there is a much cheaper alternative – building their own cnc machine – which would open up a whole new world of possibility and opportunity for them.
Those who are interested in cnc routers and the functionality of the technology should already have an interest in mechanics, so the idea of constructing their own machine should be an exciting challenge as opposed to a daunting one.
Regardless of whether the cnc equipment is to be used for a hobby, for home improvements or for a small commercial operation, there are many advantages to constructing one of your own. The machine can be custom-made to suit your own individual requirements, plus there is the enormous personal satisfaction of building a sizeable piece of sophisticated equipment. However, it is probably the cost savings that are possible from building a cnc router oneself as opposed to the full retail price of a new or even used cnc machine that is the most significant benefit.
As with any big project, it’s always wise to do the groundwork thoroughly before starting out. There are many great blogs and forums on the internet which are an invaluable source of information, so ask questions and get answers before making any sort of commitment to any supplier.
Before making a purchase, you should know what materials you intend to cut (eg wood, plastic, metals, aluminium, MDF board etc), what products you intend making and what size room or table you have available for the router. Check with the supplier what the estimated building time will be, how complicated the process is and what materials will be necessary. And to avoid unexpected cost add-ons, always check with the supplier what add-ons will be required!
Use only an established supplier with a proven track record in service, support, technical assistance etc. Choosing a supplier that is geographically close to you will also help with getting fast and efficient support and technical help, eg a Perth multicam supplier would be good for people in Western Australia. If using an overseas supplier, always check the shipping costs as these can add significantly to the overall cost. And to avoid problems with translations, it’s always worth checking that the instructions and manual from any foreign supplier are clear and easy to understand.
Building your own cnc machine can be the start of a whole new chapter. You may even find that your home hobby turns into a profitable little business, but be sure to do the research thoroughly before signing the cheque to make sure you choose quality over quantity and time over trouble ! .
How to use a router
6 Pc. 1/2″ Shank Router Bit Raised Panel Set Wood Cabinet Pro Power Tool Bits
66 PIECE 1/4 TUNGSTEN CARBIDE ROUTER BIT SET WOOD WORK
66PC 1/2″ SHANK ROUTER BIT CARBIDE TIP SET WOOD CUTTING BITS W/ ALUMINUM CASE
Ryobi 12 Piece Carbide Router Bit Set “Wood Crafter Set”
BRAND NEW… SKIL 15 PIECE ROUTER BIT SET – 91015 – IN WOOD CASE…
New 15 pc Carbide ROUTER BITS Set w/case 1/4″ Wood 1186
35 Pc CARBIDE ROUTER Bits Wood Set 1/4″ Inch Shank New
35 Pc CARBIDE ROUTER Bits Wood Set 1/4″ Inch Shank New
15 Pc 1/4″ Shank Carbide Tip Router Bit Kit w/ Wood Case Fits Porter Cable Bosch
Plastic Wood Composite Router Carving Bit 1/4″ x 7/8″
Sears Craftsmn Router Lettering Template Set, Use w/router to engrave wood signs
6 PC 1/2″ Raise Panel Door / Cabinet Wood Router Bit Fits Most Electric Routers
66PC 1/2″ SHANK ROUTER BIT CARBIDE TIP SET WOOD CUTTING BITS W/ ALUMINUM CASE
New 15 pc Carbide ROUTER BITS Set w/case 1/4″ Wood 1186
New 15 pc Carbide ROUTER BITS Set w/case 1/4″ Wood 1186
66PC 1/2″ SHANK ROUTER BIT CARBIDE TIP SET WOOD CUTTING BITS W/ ALUMINUM CASE
15 Pc 1/4″ Shank Carbide Tip Router Bit Kit w/ Wood Case Fits Porter Cable Bosch
66 PIECE 1/4 TUNGSTEN CARBIDE ROUTER BIT SET WOOD WORK
