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06
MACHINING FOR
DESIGNERS
This chapter dives deeper into computer-controlled routing fundamentals,
with a basic overview that covers large-format CNC router and end mill
anatomy, essential workshop accessories, and machining basics like feeds
and speeds—with a focus on plywood projects.
MACHINING BEGINS WITH
MATERIAL AND TOOLING
When planning a CNC project, your first ques-
tion should always be: “What material do I want
to cut?” All machining begins with your choice
of material—every subsequent choice stems
directly from the material you select.
The follow-up question is: “What cutting tool
should I use?” Every material has specific tool
geometries that work well, and each cutter and
material pairing has an optimal range of rota-
tional speeds.
Computer-controlled cutting machines that
use rotational tooling have emerged from two
very different material-focused disciplines:
woodworking and metal machining, also known
as milling. As you grow as a maker—or begin to
design for other materials—you’ll encounter
online, print, and in-person advice from experi-
enced woodworkers, life-long metal machinists,
and versatile fabricators who work in many
materials.
Each field has its own best practices and termi-
nology, so to help you understand the funda-
mentals, we’ll start at the beginning—with a
brief history of tool rotation.
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