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mlt1’s Review
mlt1
Georgia
Georgia
CompuCarve/CarveWright woodworking machine
JAN
20
2008
Craftsman CompuCarve Computer-Controlled Compact Woodworking Machine —
The CompuCarve/CarveWright machine has enabled me to accomplish amazing results with wood, and it is downright FUN to use! I am the proud owner of two machines now. I bought my first machine in January 2007 and soon realized I needed another (in August 2007) to keep up with my "project to-do" list! The machine is well designed and easy to operate. The CarveWright company provides a User Forum that is an extremely good resource for finding answers to questions about the machine and learning how to get the most out of it, from experienced and informed users. I especially recommend that anyone who is a new owner of a CompuCarve/CarveWright machine should join the forum (it's free). OVERVIEW The machine is not complicated at all and the included Designer software (the software that you use to layout your carving projects) is no problem to learn either, although it is helpful if you have some previous experience with other graphics programs. THE MACHINE There are only three main things required to be successful... 1) You must possess basic computer skills, or have a loyal friend who can teach you the basics (you need just a bit more computer-savvy than just being able to send email!) 2) You must be able to follow directions 3) Read the manual PROBLEMS? - probably not! I have been told that there are over 14,000 machines now in use. The people that have had actual mechanical problems are in a very tiny minority compared to that number. I know it doesn't make anyone feel better about that if they are one of the "unlucky ones", but I thought it was worth mentioning so that you get a proper perspective. Generally, folks that are happy with the machine are not as likely to take the time to post a review as those who are unhappy. Having frequented the CarveWright User Forum for nearly a year, I read time and time again that the vast majority of folks who think they are having a problem with their machine are not following the recommended procedures for it's proper use. For example, a very simple thing like making sure the project board is at least 7" longer than the "virtual" board in the Designer software is often missed by new users and they cause themselves unneccessary grief. Not knowing any better, they think the machine has a problem, when in reality, it was plain old "pilot error" on their part. I recommend reading the brief manual (twice), and have it by your side when doing your first few projects so you don't neglect a step when setting up the machine for a carving session. Again, I want to emphasize that the machine is NOT HARD to operate. Just follow the directions outlined in the manual and you'll be a happy carver! MACHINE UPKEEP Couple things that I routinely do to keep my machines running in tip-top condition.. 1) Clean out the machine of sawdust build-up after each project carve - a clean machine is a happy machine. 2) Periodically inspect the machine for anything unusual such as loose screws, wear and tear on the sanding belts, sawdust buildup on parts that are lubricated with grease or oil. (By the way, I have never found any loose screws nor had to replace my sanding belts, but I check nevertheless!) THE DESIGNER SOFTWARE This is an amazing piece of work. It allows you to drag-and-drop patterns onto the "virtual board", arrange, resize, position, mirror, create textured surfaces, concave or convex surfaces, and so on. While laying out a design, you can zoom-in, zoom-out, and rotate the 'board' in virtual "3D space" to view your project design at any angle. Very handy and the software gives an excellent representation of what the project will look like BEFORE you commit to carving on real wood! Basic sign and decorative plaque making is a breeze. The Text Tool allows you to use any font installed on your PC or Mac computer. You can apply an arc to the text, angle it, change the spacing and resize it as desired. As you get more familiar with the software and its features, you'll find you can't resist doing more advanced projects and 'playing' with the software to create complex-looking projects that will have folks wondering "how'd you do that?" The software already comes with a nice supply of "stock" patterns that can be used for laying out your projects. Additional patterns are available from a variety of sources on the web (including free ones on the CarveWright Forum Pattern Sharing section) and can be downloaded to your computer for adding new patterns to your Pattern Library. (NOTE: Pattern Files for download are often "zipped" and have to be "unzipped" before they can be imported into the Pattern Library - remember what I said before... you need to know normal, basic computer skills - if you do, then you already know about zipping and unzipping files!). IN A NUTSHELL I absolutely love the machine and its capabilities. If you are comfortable (and capable) with running your own computer, and can follow directions, I think you'll have a great experience with the machine.
Craftsman CompuCarve Computer-Controlled Compact Woodworking Machine is recommended by mlt1
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