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Exploring CNC🔗

Exploring CNC

A CNC router turns a digital model into a physical part. The question is whether you understand what's happening between the model and the cut, or you're just clicking "generate toolpath" and hoping.

This site documents an open-source CNC workflow from first principles: designing in FreeCAD, generating toolpaths, understanding the G-code that comes out the other end, and driving the machine with Universal Gcode Sender — not just how to follow a setup guide, but why the workflow is built the way it is.

Who This Is For🔗

Anyone starting out with a hobbyist CNC router — a new build, a used machine, or a kit — who wants to actually understand the process instead of copying setup videos. No prior machining or CAD experience assumed.

Where Do You Start?🔗

Articles are grouped into topics — the subjects of CNC work, like coordinate systems and toolpaths — and each topic deepens across three levels: Essential (start here, no prior knowledge needed), Efficient (for makers going off-script), and Mastery (production-grade depth).

📦 Essential🔗

The foundations — no prior knowledge needed. Work through these in order, by topic.

Machine Foundations

Reading G-code

  • Reading G-code — The small vocabulary behind every generated file, and why "modal" state matters

⚡ Efficient (Coming soon)🔗

The real CAD/CAM workflow: modeling in FreeCAD, generating toolpaths, choosing feeds and speeds for the material and bit, and running production-quality jobs.

🎯 Mastery (Coming soon)🔗

Precision work: tolerances and fixturing, tool life and surface finish, machine calibration and squaring, and running repeatable batches.

Part of the BradPenney.io Network🔗

This site is part of a family of progressive technical learning resources: