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Fundamentals of CNC with the ShopBot – Four-Week Workshop
January 19 @ 10:00 am – February 9 @ 2:00 pm
Unlock the potential of CNC woodworking with our hands-on, project-based course designed for aspiring makers and professionals. Over four weeks, you’ll gain comprehensive knowledge and practical experience with the ShopBot 48×96 PRSAlpha. From understanding the basics of CNC machinery to designing and creating a piece of furniture, this course will guide you through the intricacies of digital fabrication. With personalized attention in a small class setting, you’ll learn how to transform your woodworking projects using precision cutting and design software.
Students will learn to use our 48×96 CNC router successfully and safely over four weeks. Students will complete a small part of their project each week, and the cohort will meet weekly to review progress and gain additional instruction. Students will complete self-directed work between classes and prepare to present their work to the group.
Class Schedule
Every Friday for 4-weeks, we’ll meet from 10 am – 2 pm to receive instruction, talk about progress, and make a plan for our projects. James, the instructor, will demonstrate concepts, share workflow ideas and strategies, answer questions, and work one-on-one with attendees toward the completion of their projects. Attendees will work independently to complete various aspects of their projects between classes.
Week One: Introduction to CNC Woodworking and the ShopBot PRSAlpha
- Course Overview and Plan
- Introduction to the ShopBot PRS Alpha
- Demonstrations and Projects Showcase
- Introduction to CAD Drafting Software
- Project Brainstorming and Sketching
Week Two: Design and Planning for the CNC
- Project review, presentation, and group discussion.
- Deep dive into CAD software to design your project.
- Toolpath considerations, joinery, and CNC joints.
- Assembly techniques and finishing methods.
Week Three: Hands-On with the ShopBot PRSAlpha
- CAD drafting review, presentation, and group discussion.
- Machine setup and tool selection.
- Test cuts and test tool paths on the ShopBot.
- Begining the fabrication of projects.
- Troubleshooting common issues and learning cleanup and maintenance basics.
Week Four: Finalizing your project.
- Completing the fabrication process.
- Final project showcase and group discussion.
- Course wrapup and discussion on further resources and next steps in CNC.
***Upon completing their projects, students will gain access to the ShopBot PRS Alpha and, as members, be able to reserve time with the tool. Students must demonstrate safe and effective use of the tool, complete their class project, and gain instructor sign-off before access will be granted.
Who Should Enroll:
This course is ideal for hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, woodworkers, and anyone interested in learning about CNC machinery and digital fabrication. Whether you want to enhance your skill set for personal projects or professional development, this course offers a solid foundation in CNC woodworking.
Prerequisites:
- Attendees must have completed our Intro to CNC Router Badge class or our Woodshop Badge.
- Students are encouraged to take our Introduction to CNC drafting class or have a solid understanding of CAD/CAM drafting software.
- Attendees must understand computer basics like navigating file systems, saving, and exporting.
- Participants should have a basic understanding of woodworking tools and safety.
Course Goals:
- Understand the principles of CNC woodworking and the capabilities of the ShopBot PRSAlpha.
- Learn to design for CNC using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software.
- Gain hands-on experience in machine operation, material selection, and tool path creation.
- Complete a personal woodworking project from design to finish.
Materials Included
- One 48″ x 96″ sheet of 3/4″ Plywood.
- One 1/4″ End Mill for use in the router.
- Various fasteners and glues.
Not Included
- Specialty bits or mills.
- Additional materials.
- Additional finishes or specialty fasteners.
About the Instructor
James W. Johnson is the executive director of MAKE Santa Fe, CEO of Mindshare Labs, and sits on the board of Trustees at Santa Fe Playhouse. He’s also an avid maker. James studied Theater and Art at the University of Idaho, earning his B.F.A.
Upon graduation, he dove into a career as a scene designer. To date, James has designed or built over 150 different theatrical sets. His work has been on stage at Santa Fe Playhouse, Hedgerow Theater, Flat Rock Playhouse, NC Stage Company, and many others nationwide.
His career in the theater slowly evolved into becoming a non-profit administrator. Over the past decade, James has helped theaters, non-profits, and higher education institutes make their mark on the web by creating online systems that benefit the missions of those institutions. He’s led fundraising, marketing, and business development teams and is a self-taught web developer specializing in programming languages related to web design.
James maintains artistic inspiration through photography, metalwork, and as a scenic designer. He’s passionate about leading MAKE Santa Fe and loves sharing his knowledge.
Some of his work can be found on his website: https://thejameswilliam.com/
