New to CNC? Start with the DWC1824 Mini!

New to the world of CNC carving and wondering where to start? Then the DWC1824 CNC router is the CNC for you! 

As a beginner, we recommend that you work with smaller projects first and develop your skills and knowledge through practice. 

The DWC1824 Mini Carver allows you to start with a high quality CNC that is not only highly capable and well built, but is also affordable and conducive to learning. It is easy to operate, compact, and equipped with everything you need. No prior experience in CNC is required to begin!

Why the DWC1824?

If you’re a beginner looking for an all-around CNC router that can grow with you and unlock your creative potential, then the DWC1824 Mini Carver is your best bet. 

Unlike other entry-level CNC routers that are foreign made as a kit and have to be fully assembled before use, the DWC1824 is made in the US, and ships to you pre-assembled and plug-and-play ready - router, design software, controller software and even bits are included! 

It has a compact footprint for workshops that don’t have a lot of extra space. Plus, you can add accessories like a laser, 4th Axis attachment and more to fit your needs, extending your capabilities even further

This makes it perfect for people with limited spaces and people who want to get to work immediately. What you see is what you get at a reasonable price for a US-made CNC that comes with extensive after-sale support. 

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to begin your CNC journey with the DWC1824.

Learn CNC with Us 

Before anything else, you need to have at least an idea on what you’re getting yourself into. And great news is that Digital Wood Carving offers massive support for beginners. No need to be too tech savvy, just have the motivation to learn and you’re good to go! 

• Initial Orientation and Training

Upon purchase, your CNC comes with start up videos that show you EXACTLY how to set up your CNC, install the software, and design and carve your first project. So even if you’re brand new to CNC, all you have to do is follow along!

Plus, to answer more questions and make sure you’re starting strong, every new customer gets a two-hour long one-on-one orientation and training right off the bat with our experienced staff!

This training will teach you how to use both the DWC1824 software and machine and help you start on the right track. An interactive manual is also integrated into the software that walks you through all of its features.

• Interactive LIVE Design Tutorials on YouTube

You will also gain access to tons of tutorial videos for your reference. There are videos on how to install your software, how to use certain accessories, how to design your first project, etc.

Aside from tutorial videos, we conduct LIVE classes on Youtube (Spindle TV). Every Tuesday night,  our pro CNC specialist hosts the classes, which are interactive. We will address any question you have real-time!

• User Support Group

Digital Wood Carver also established a private support group on Facebook called the Digital Wood Carvers Owners Group. Here, other experienced owners help new owners get started, answer questions, share experiences and project files, and more. 

This community exposure not only expands your CNC knowledge but also encourages you to try out new things and make friends with other CNC operators.

Start Simple 

With some research and training under your belt, it’s time to put all that into practice. The DWC1824 uses the Vectric VCarve Desktop Design Software to design projects.

If you’re concerned that the software will be too technical for you, don’t worry, it’s the industry-standard largely because of how powerful and intuitive it is to use.

Plus, you’ll be able to follow along for your first projects with our startup videos and training tutorials (mentioned above) and you can learn more about it during the training and from the video resources you can access. 

Start building up your skill by opting for the most basic projects to maximize your chances of success. For example, you can  carve out simple texts and patterns on nameplates, jewelry box covers, etc. 

For more ideas, here are some beginner-friendly designs previously made by our customers:

Starting with something simple gives you a straightforward idea on how the finished product should look like. As soon as you get the hang of it, you can switch up to more challenging patterns and images. 

Here are the types of files you can import on the DWC1824 design software:

• Vector Files

  • dxf

  • .dwg

  • .eps

  • .ai

  • .pdf

  • .svg

  • .skp

• Image Files

  • Bitmap

  • Pixel

  • JPEG

  • PNG

  • GIF

  • TIFF

• 3D Models

  • STL

  • OBJ

  • PRJ

  • 3DS.X

Get Creative

Once you get the hang of creating straightforward designs, you can begin to experiment with more advanced carves, creative techniques and try out designs on different kinds of materials.

Check out some of these advances projects other DWC1824 owners have made:

Plus, you can extend the capabilities of the CNC router with different accessories:

• Six-watt Laser (for laser engraving)

• 4th Axis for rotary carving

The Sky’s the Limit! 

Consistency is the key to mastery. After finishing one project, then it’s time to plan another and the cycle continues until you get comfortable. It’s also good that you challenge yourself with complex designs every now and then. Not only can this help you develop your skills in woodcrafting, but the mistakes you make will help you grow.

Just like Burl Tichenor, owner of Digital Wood Carver, says - “Nobody that has the desire, cannot learn to do it. There is no shame in being a beginner. In fact, you should be proud as this simply means that you're opening doors to a new journey.” So if you’re thinking of learning CNC and further honing your woodworking skills, then go for it! Support and help is always here for you.

Discover more about the DWC1824 Mini Carver and other available CNCs.