What machine is required please

[JAZZCNC]

Hi Aaron,

Occasionaly build machines for people and I've built several now for others doing exactly what your wifes doing and I can tell you confidently that £500 won't cover the software you'll need to do this properly and be worth the time.
Yes there are Free or Cheap software out there but they are either hard to use or Limited or unsuitable in there CAM capabilty's. Often not very Newbie friendly.!!

The CAM software is what makes turning your ideas into reality and code the machine needs. Think of it has toolbox.?
Free or Basic Cam packages come with limited tools in the box, better known as tool path types or cutting stratergies. So if limited then it makes achieving your goals harder or impossible. Can also make a huge difference in the time it takes just to produce the code, not to mention actual cutting time.

Free or Cheap has it's place when first learning but it soon becomes limiting when the Artistic creative juices flow and reality of what these machines can allow kicks in.!! . . . Esp in Arts & Craft enviroment where 3D or V-carving is often desired.

Unfortunatly reality is that £2000 is more like realistic figure for small/med size machine with everything you'll need if you want to do this properly and be worth the trouble. . . . That figure is also on the low side and if you DIY build.!!

My strong suggestion is Don't bother unless you can do it properly as you'll only lose time and money which NO business needs. . Esp a new one.!!
If you need CNC capabilty's then Farm work out untill you can afford or drop across a good suitable machine.