George Vondriska

Benchtop CNC: The Next Level

with George Vondriska

Benchtop CNC routers are quickly becoming a mainstream tool in many shops. This class will make sure you’re getting everything you can out of this amazing machine while teaching you many new skills.

We’re going into this class with the assumption that you have basic CNC router skills. Prior to taking this class you should be comfortable with:

  • Zeroing the X, Y and Z axes
  • Locating your work on the spoilboard
  • Securing your work to the spoilboard
  • Basic design work in VCarve
  • Basic toolpathing in VCarve

If you feel you’re a little short on any of these topics you should take our Benchtop CNC Fundamentals class before taking this class.

Ready to go to the next level? You’ll learn about:

  • Your spoilboard: Repair, routine maintenance, flycutting
  • Your post processor: Making VCarve life a little easier by hiding the many post processors you don’t need
  • Making multiples: How to easily get project blanks on and off your CNC with repeatability
  • 3D clipart: Roughing pass, finishing pass, bit selection
  • Adding text to 3D surfaces: Bending text and conforming it to the surface
  • Finger joints: Joint layout, optimizing the fit
  • Inlay: Duplicating shapes and fitting one part into another

In addition to the detailed video instruction, this class provides you with some downloadable resources and helpful information to print and keep, including a detailed Class Guide you can follow and use as a reminder for the key points of the class, and a Resources document that will give you information on the products you’ll see in class.

If you’re ready to take the next step in building your woodworking skills, this is the class for you.

  • 7 Sessions
  • 1h 57m
George Vondriska

George Vondriska

Formally trained in technology education, George Vondriska has been teaching woodworking since 1986. He has been the managing editor of Woodworkers Guild of America since 2007. In addition to classes at his own Vondriska Woodworks School, George teaches at woodworking shows across the country and has taught woodworking for the Peace Corps, Andersen Window, Northwest Airlines and the Pentagon.

Bonus materials available after purchase

Printable Class Guide PDF

Download and print this PDF Guide to complement your Class. It’s a great reference for using the techniques you’ll see in this class.

Printable Class Resources PDF

Download and print this PDF to complement your Class. It includes a list of products and materials you’ll see in this class.

Video: Meet Your Instructor

Download this short video to meet your class instructor, George Vondriska.

Video: More about CNC Versatility

Download this short video to hear George talk about how using a CNC machine can add fun and interesting elements to your projects.

How do I know what the Class covers?

Every Class has a free Preview video you can watch, to give you a flavor of the Instructor and the skills or project that will be covered. In addition, the Overview tab includes a thorough written description of the Class. And finally, each Class Session has a brief written summary of the content in that Session, including the length of each Session video. You will get a good feel for the Class content by reviewing these resources.

Can I view a Class on my tablet device or mobile phone?

No problem. Most newer model smartphones or other mobile/tablet devices with an internet connection are able to play the class videos. Simply log in to CRAFT & HOBBY, and you can view any class.

How do I access the Bonus Materials for the class?

Go to view your class, and each individual bonus element is accessible by simply clicking on each item. You’ll find the bonus materials directly below your main class viewer frame. You can access the bonus materials as many times as you would like and/or save them to your device.

Can I print out Class details?

For any Bonus Material that is a PDF Download, yes you can. Just click on the icon/button for the Bonus element you want, and print with your local printer.

What are PDF downloads?

These are simply documents, plans, or written materials that are formatted in a way to print out and retain for reference. By simply clicking on the icon/link for any PDF Download that is included with a Class, you can print that document on your own printer or simply view the contents on your computer/mobile device.

Are there any system requirements to view the Class video content?

Your Class video content is best when viewed on a computer manufactured in the past couple of years with a good broadband Internet connection (not dialup). We also highly recommend using the latest version of Firefox, Safari, or Chrome as your Internet Browser, though recent versions of Internet Explorer will work as well. The recommended screen resolution is 1024 x 768 or larger.

How do I contact Craft And Hobby?

If your question is about the Class content, please use the Class Discussion benefit to ask your question online – and you'll receive feedback from the Class Instructor. Even your fellow Class participants may jump in to offer tips and advice from their experience. If you have other questions or need help, you can email us at craftandhobby@program-director.net or call us toll-free, at 1-833-363-1239. Service Representatives will be available Monday-Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Central time, excluding normal holidays.

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