CNC Machine that’s like a “3D Printer for Wood”
As someone who loves 3D printing, finding out about this “3D printer for wood” felt like opening a new door in digital crafting. With 3D printing, you build designs layer by layer to create objects using either filament or resin. This DIY Smart Saw uses CNC tech to carve wood based on digital plans. CNC, or Computer Numerical Control, is a technology that automates tools to make precise cuts and shapes by following digital designs. It’s like having a machine that reads your plans and turns them into wood carvings. The DIY Smart Saw brings this technology to home workshops, making it possible for anyone to create wood designs using a CNC setup. The idea of transferring my designs into wood was exciting because it doesn’t need expert woodworking skills, just the ability to follow the setup. It’s like taking my 3D projects into a whole new material.
Tap here to go straight to the video that explains everything. I noticed, that the buy button to get the plans doesn’t come up until you watch the video for a little bit. So be sure to stick around to watch the video. I found it’s probably best that you watch some of it anyway before purchasing, so you know what you are getting. If you want to hear more from me, before going to the page, I put together the rest of this article below. Hope you enjoy, and be sure to send this article to a friend that could be interested – Randy
(P.S. All the links on this page go to the same video)
DIY Smart Saw and CNC
The DIY Smart Saw works like a CNC machine built specifically for woodworking, which means it follows digital designs to create exact cuts and shapes in wood. With this machine, you’re not just doing simple cuts; it’s like having a guided system that brings your ideas to life with detail and accuracy. The Smart Saw bridges the gap between traditional wood carving and digital design, letting you handle even complex shapes easily, all with the control of a digital setup.
What is included?
The program provides a members’ area where you can download the main PDF manual which contains easy-to-follow, step-by-step plans to build your own Smart Saw. Instructional videos that show the entire build process makes it easier to understand how to build it. It also includes parts specifications, with common parts available locally or online. Additional project plans that you can do with your Smart Saw can be found here. These plans come as bundled files with machine code, PDFs, and images for each project. An interactive viewer for a 3D look at the assembly gives a realistic view of the finished machine. A helpful FAQ section gives extra guidance after you’ve reviewed the manual and videos. You can load and run projects quickly, and while a bit of finishing work is needed, the Smart Saw dramatically speeds up complex cuts compared to manual methods.
How much is it to build it?
Building the DIY Smart Saw usually costs around $500 for the parts, depending on where you buy them. The Smart Saw plans list all needed components, with links for purchasing, although some may require alternative sourcing. Upgrades, like the XXL version, are optional and add to the cost. Software needed to operate the machine can be found for free or at a small cost. Overall, it’s an accessible way to set up a CNC system without the high expense of prebuilt machines.
What can you build?
You can make anything really. If you can design it and put it in the software, it can do it.
With the DIY Smart Saw, you can make unique wood projects like personalized signs, detailed wall décor, and custom accents for furniture. Examples include engraved wooden plaques, intricate table inlays, and artistic wooden maps for home décor. You might also create things like custom shelving, carved clock faces, or even decorative nameplates. This machine handles the precise work, turning your designs into detailed wood pieces that would be tough to create by hand, making it a practical choice for all kinds of wood-based projects.
The final product may need some sanding and touch-ups, but using the Smart Saw saves a huge amount of time. It can often complete intricate cuts 10 to 20 times faster than manual work.
Is it worth it?
Absolutely!
As a 3D printing maker, this is a whole world of crafting possibilities, combining wood and digital designs. It lets you tackle projects that would take hours by hand, handling detailed cuts much faster and with fewer errors. While there’s a bit of a learning curve with setup and software, the Smart Saw opens up many creative possibilities. If you’re looking to save time on complex projects and enjoy trying new tools, this setup could definitely be worth it.