Toolpaths and Machining: V-Bit Carving

Carveco Tutorial: V-Bit Carving

The V-Bit Carving Toolpath creates a faux 3D effect by following vector shapes with a V-bit tool. This technique is commonly used for signs and plaques, especially when engraving stylized text.

🔹 Getting Started

1. Create or import text or shapes as vectors.
2. Go to Toolpaths > Create V-Bit Carving Toolpath.
3. Select your vectors manually or by layer.
4. Choose a V-bit (e.g., 90° or 60°) from the tool database.
5. Click Refresh to preview the maximum cutting depth.
6. Set material thickness and Z-zero position, then click Calculate.

🔹 How V-Bit Carving Works

The depth of the V-bit is determined by the distance between two sidewalls of a vector. Wider gaps result in deeper cuts. This dynamic cutting depth creates the 3D carved effect.

🔹 Choosing the Right Tool

• 90° V-bit: Common and shallow cuts.
• 60° V-bit: Sharper angle, more detail, deeper cuts.
• Click Refresh to see how deep each tool will cut based on your vector design.

🔹 Limiting Cut Depth

If the calculated toolpath goes too deep, use the Limit Carving Depth option to restrict how far the tool can plunge (e.g., 0.25").

🔹 Step Over & Ridges

• V-bits come to a point, so stepover must be very small to avoid visible ridges.
• Reduce stepover to values like 0.005 for a smoother finish.
• Larger stepovers result in faster cuts but rougher surfaces.

🔹 Using a Roughing Tool

To save time and extend tool life, add a Roughing Tool (e.g., 1/4" or 1/8" end mill) to remove excess material. The V-bit will then clean up the final surface.

🔹 Handling Tight Corners

• If your roughing tool is too large, it may miss narrow areas.
• Switch to a smaller roughing tool to improve results (e.g., from 1/4" to 1/8").
• For maximum accuracy, allow the V-bit to handle all cutting.

💡 Tip

Always simulate your toolpath to check for overcuts—especially when adding new vectors or using narrow angles.

🔹 Simulation and Depth Warnings

• Carveco warns if your tool will cut through the material—adjust your settings accordingly.
• Use the Simulation tool to preview cut depth and surface finish before exporting the toolpath.

V-Bit Carving is ideal for text engraving and decorative detail work. With the right tool and settings, it delivers clean, professional-looking results with minimal setup.