Automatic CAD Thumbnails

OK, to work a CNC you need G-Code, to get G-Code you usually need a CAD (Computer Aided Design) program. Since I'm a Windows kind of guy, and well, a cheap kind of guy, I go for the very capable and free CAD program Inkscape.  One of the cool things I found out about Inkscape is it's ability to take a command line argument to output a PNG file.  What's so cool about that?  Well, if you have a bunch of drawings it can be a pain to load and save each as a PNG file just so you can have a thumbnail visible in Windows Explorer. So let's automate making thumbnails viewable from Windows Explorer (PNG files) from a bunch of SVG files (the format Inkscape saves in).

Great Prices on Tools

I'm a maker, I love making, I love making new things. There is a certain thrill of discovery when you make something new, something "outside of your wheelhouse" as a good friend used to say. One of the big problems with making new things is they often require new tools and tools can be crazy expensive.  So how the heck are you supposed to buy all these tools and still be able to afford the materials to make new stuff? I have several strategies, and I must be patient if I want a good deal.  Having a plan, even a vague one, long beforehand allows you the option of purchasing items at better prices before the project begins.  I have been known to buy tools without a project in mind because I knew I wanted to do something in the field of use the tool was designed for and I found the deal of the century.

Thein Baffle Cyclone Separator

CNC is awesome, it makes it easy for a guy that spent more time in computer classes than woodshop to make cool things.  One thing my experience with CNC used for wood or plastic is that they create a hell of a mess.  Since I don't like cleaning up after myself on a regular basis, I will be attaching a vacuum to my CNC to clean up as it goes.

Simple CNC Clamp Workholding System

So I wanted in the CNC game, played with the idea of building one but opted against it and went out and bought myself a Probotix Fireball X90.  It's a pretty slick machine, easy to assemble, but not entirely complete in my opinion. One of the major shortfalls to me is the lack of any type of work holding system. Yes, I could have plopped down $259 for an aluminum T-slot board, but daaaang I'm cheap.  Yes, I can do like I've seen others do before and just screw my work in place, but I've done that and was not very happy with the process. Beyond needlessly butchering my spoil board, it took forever.