Getting started
Is 3D carving included with Easel Pro?
Yes. 3D carving is included with Easel Pro at no extra cost.
Where can I learn how to use 3D?
See 3D Carving Instructions for the full process and Glossary - 3D in Easel Pro for what each setting does.
Is this 3D design software?
No. Easel's 3D feature is CAM software: you import a 3D model as an STL file and Easel creates the toolpaths to carve it. You can't build or edit 3D models in Easel, but you can create one with Easel Generate in 3D mode.
3D files
What is an STL file?
STL is a widely used 3D file format, originally developed by 3D Systems. It describes the surface of a 3D model, which lets Easel carve it at varying depths.
How do I create a 3D STL file?
Use 3D modeling software, such as SketchUp or Fusion 360, or buy or download a model. Models made for 3D printing will work, but relief-style models are best suited to CNC carving.
Where can I find 3D STL files?
See 8 Best Sites to Download STL Files. Sites like Thingiverse and Etsy also have models, but not all of them are made for CNC carving. Always check a file's license before you use it.
What dimensions or units does my file need to be?
None in particular. When you import a model, leave Scale model to fit material checked and Easel scales it to fit your material. You can then resize it by dragging a corner handle in the 3D view or by entering a Size.
What is the largest file I can use?
Easel accepts files of any size, but optimizes files over 100 MB when you import them. See the File Import Guide.
Bits
Which bits do I need to use?
Use a flat end mill for the roughing pass. For the finishing pass, we recommend a ball nose bit. You can also use a tapered ball nose bit for finishing (see below).
How do I know which bit sizes work best for my project?
Use the largest bit you can for the roughing pass, so it clears material quickly. For the finishing pass, use a bit small enough to carve the finest details in your model.
Will tapered ball nose bits work with 3D in Easel Pro?
Yes, for the finishing pass. Tapered ball nose finishing is in early access. To use it:
- Go to Tapered Ballnose Finishing in 3D (Early Access) and click Enable Feature.
- Open a project with a 3D workpiece. You can import a 3D STL file or create one with Easel Generate in 3D mode.
- Add a tapered ball nose bit to your toolbox. Choose one from the catalog, or add it as a custom bit. You can filter your toolbox and the catalog to show only tapered ball nose bits, or search by part number.
- Open the Finishing Bit menu and choose your tapered ball nose bit.
- Set your feed rate. Start at 1.5 to 2 times the feed rate you'd use for a straight ball nose bit with the same ball diameter. For example, if you'd run a straight bit at 60 in/min, try 90 to 120 in/min.
Things to know:
- Faster finishing: a tapered bit can run faster than a straight ball nose bit with the same ball diameter.
- Best for shallow reliefs: shallow designs look much the same with a tapered bit and carve much faster. Steep edges and deep vertical details are limited by the bit's taper angle, so they'll be less precise.
- Stiffer bit: the thicker shank flexes less, which helps most with very small bits.
| Important: Early access features are still in development and may have bugs. We don't recommend using tapered ball nose finishing on expensive material yet. |
Can I use custom bits?
Yes. You can add any bit to your toolbox and use it for the finishing pass. For a custom tapered ball nose bit, you'll need these details from the manufacturer:
- Tip angle
- Ball diameter: some manufacturers list the radius instead. For example, an R1/16 bit has a ball diameter of 1/8".
- Cutting length: don't carve deeper than this, or you may get unexpected results.
Toolpaths and carve time
How long will it take to generate the toolpaths?
It depends on how complex your model is. Easel shows an estimated carve time before you click Generate toolpaths.
My toolpaths are taking a long time to generate. What should I do?
Generation time depends on the model's complexity and size, the bit diameter and the step over. Small bits and low step overs on large, detailed models take the longest. If it takes more than 10 minutes, try a larger finishing bit, a higher step over or a smaller model.
What is a typical carve time?
It varies with the size of your project, your material and your cut settings.
My carve time estimate is very long. How can I speed up my carve?
- Make the model smaller.
- Use a larger finishing bit, such as 1/8" or 1/4".
- Raise the finishing Step over to around 15%.
- Use the largest depth per pass your machine and bit can handle on the roughing pass.
- Try a tapered ball nose bit for the finishing pass.
What is step over?
Step over is how much each finishing pass overlaps the one before it. A smaller step over gives a smoother finish but takes longer. Use 10–15% for faster carves and 7–9% for more detailed ones.
Why is there no depth per pass for the finishing pass?
The roughing pass removes most of the material, so the finishing pass can carve the full depth of the model in one pass.
What do the different raster directions mean?
Raster direction sets the direction the finishing bit travels: X axis, 45°, Y axis or 135°. Choose the direction that follows the grain of your wood for the smoothest finish.
Machines and computers
Will 3D carving work on my CNC machine?
3D carving works with machines that Easel supports, including machines running GRBL, FluidNC and grblHAL (Beta).