Always been interested in CNC machining and finally bit the bullet and bought a SainSmart Genmitsu 3018. It is light duty (1/8" spindle) and has a working envelope of 11.8" by 7" with 1.7" of Z travel but is fully functional for $240.
Ahhhhhh - software. Found Carbide Create which is a simple 2.5D modeling application for Carbide's own CNC machines. They have chosen to make it available to the general public with the hopes that when you outgrow your cheap Chinesium machine, you will consider buying one of their machines. Looks interesting.
Also, two web-based applications - Image to Lithophane which looks really interesting and KiriMoto which is a basic CNC processor.
Back in 2007, I took a couple classes in the Bellingham Technical College's Advanced Machining program and learned how to run these wonderful machines. A lot of fun and want to get back into it as part of my Blacksmithing and Welding business on the island.
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