Introduction: Custom Wooden Signs Made With Shopbot CNC Router

By
About: Trying to learn faster than I forget. It will be cool to make some stuff along the way.
My friend just opened a new toy store. I'm so proud of her! She's just awesome and really great with kids and families.
I wanted to help her out by making some signs for her new shop.

This project was created using the ShopBot Alpha. Its a big CNC router that can turn a huge sheet of material into a work of art... with the right guidance anyway. Most of you will not have access to this tool, but if you do, this is a project that will be easy to make.
I first saw this tool at the Tech Shop and wanted to learn how to use it ASAP!

you will need:
Wood - I used a primed MDF board - it came in 11.25" width
Router bit - 1/2" 90 degree V bit
Chop Saw
Screws
Screw Driver
Measuring Tape
Pencil
T-Square
ShopBot CNC Router and associated software. http://www.shopbottools.com/mProducts/prSalpha.htm

Step 1: Design Your Signs

I used VCarve Pro by Vectric to lay out the sign.
This software was provided by the Tech Shop for the members to use. They have a demo you can download to practice with.
http://www.vectric.com/products/vcarve-pro.htm


I had found a freeware font that had a train motif that looked fun.
http://www.fontspace.com/west-wind-fonts/toy-train

Step 2: Cut Wood

My "toys" sign design was 25" but I knew that I would have to screw the wood to the bed of the router, so I added a couple inches extra. The other signs were a bit longer.

Step 3: Mount Plank to Router Bed

Line up the wood and screw it down so it does not move during the cutting process.
Use a T-square to assure it will be properly aligned on your x and y planes.

Step 4: Check Tool Paths on ShopBot Software

set up your x,y, and z positions in the software and be sure the router is programmed correctly. Run an "air pass" above the material as a test to be sure everything looks right before you cut the wood.

Step 5: Run the Router

If everything looks correct, run it!

Step 6: Remove Sign From Router and Cut Ends Clean

Remove the screws to get your sign off the board.
Cut the ends off the sign to finish it.

Step 7: Enjoy Your New Signs!

I made these signs at the Tech Shop in San Carlos, California.
http://www.techshop.ws/

If you don't have a Tech Shop close by, check to see if there are other collective shops or schools where you can use this equipment.
I was very pleased with how it came out!