In our latest software tutorial, Rob Sandstrom demonstrates how to cut a Mancala game board using a CNC benchtop router, decorating it with a final CO2 laser engraving. This beginner woodworking project is designed using both VCarve Pro 11 and Lightburn software. With some CNC programming basics you'll see how easy it is to put a creative idea onto wood. Multiple elements from this project, such as creating shapes and adding text, can be applied to a variety of CNC projects in your shop.
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CHAPTERS:
0:00 Introduction on how to make a Mancala game with a CNC
0:56 Creating a new file and job setup on VCarve Pro 11 vectric software
1:46 Adding top half game border
2:17 Placing game pockets onto board
5:12 Rounding out border corners
5:33 Making bottom half of game with a mirror copy
6:20 Organizing cuts into individual layers
9:29 Creating toolpath for pockets
14:53 Creating toolpath for magnets
15:33 Preview magnet toolpath
15:39 Creating toolpath for borders
17:01 Previewing border toolpath with tabs
17:15 Adjusting material setup before cutting
19:18 Saving toolpaths
20:23 Featured project CNC bits
21:57 Zeroing X, Y, and Z axis
25:40 Checking the time it will take to cut first toolpath
27:12 Checking your work and making adjustments
30:27 Running pocket toolpath with bowl bit
32:05 Running pocket toolpath with roundover bit
34:08 Using a compression bit for magnet holes and border
36:37 Cutting tabs to detach Mancala game from material
38:04 Importing VCarve Pro file into Lightburn software for laser engraving
39:52 Adding text to design
41:07 Setting speed and power
41:29 Exporting file
41:52 Aligning material to CO2 laser
43:26 Accessing Lightburn file
44:19 Double checking your work by framing cut
45:30 Laser engraving "Mancala" text
47:32 Finished project