The Carveco Interface

Carveco Tutorial: Exploring the Carveco Maker Interface

In this beginner-friendly tutorial, we introduce you to the Carveco Maker interface. Whether you're using Maker, Maker Plus, or the full Carveco package, this overview helps you confidently navigate the workspace and begin your first projects.

🔹 Getting Started

• Double-click the Carveco Maker icon to launch the software.
• You’ll see the Start Page, displaying recent projects and options to open or create a new model.
• Use the sidebar for quick access to help, settings, and preferences (e.g., change line thickness).

🔹 Creating a New Model

• Click New Model to open the setup dialog.
• Define your model’s dimensions (e.g., 24" x 24"). The preview updates in real time.
• Set your origin (datum) point using one of the corners or center.
• Leave resolution on maximum for best 3D simulation quality.
• Select your units (inches or millimeters) and click OK.

🔹 Interface Overview

• The model opens in the 3D view by default (yellow background).
• Use left + right mouse to pan, and scroll wheel to zoom.
• Click the 2D or 3D tabs above the canvas to switch views.
• The 3D view allows you to visualize toolpath depth — ideal for machining preview.

🔹 Key Tool Panels

• Left Sidebar: Vector creation tools (lines, circles, text) and vector editing tools (trim, join, offset).
• Top Toolbar: Additional vector and relief tools. More tools are available under the dropdown menus.
• Right Sidebar:
  • Model Info: Size, resolution, height data.
  • Vector Layers: Assign lines to layers for organization and toolpath selection.
  • Toolpaths: Create, simulate, and manage machining operations.

🔹 Using the Relief Clipart Library

• Click the yellow star folder icon to access clipart.
• Choose from categories like animals, crosses, and greenery.
• Drag and drop reliefs directly into the canvas area.
• Click Get More Clipart to visit the Carveco site and install the full library.

🔹 Helpful Mouse Controls

• Scroll Wheel: Zoom in and out (centered on cursor position).
• Left + Right Click Together: Pan across your model.
• Middle Mouse Button: In 3D view, rotate the view freely.
• Use the top-down view button to quickly reset the view.

🔹 Switching Workspaces

• You can switch between model information, vector layers, bitmaps, and toolpaths using the right sidebar tabs.
• This makes it easy to check model size, change layer colors, or calculate toolpaths without losing your place.