need some help

[twilliams]

What is the best type of material to use when cutting monogram letters out with a CNC router? I am new to this and have been playing around with MDF board (doesn't paint very well) and plywood ( doesn't hold together very good because of the glued together layers). Any advice would be appreciated.

[Gamelord]

You could do Aluminum.

[BanksAg]

If you want to use plywood, Baltic Birch holds up pretty well. It is more expensive than standard plywood, but holds up pretty well. I haven't tried it yet, but I've also been told to use a down-cut spiral bit as it will leave the top edge cleaner (as compared to an up-cut or straight-flute).

You could also get some of the edge-glued pine panels that Home Depot/Lowe's sells. Again, they're not cheap, but it's a lot quicker than gluing, planing, and sanding your own.

[Larry83301]

What is the best type of material to use when cutting monogram letters out with a CNC router? I am new to this and have been playing around with MDF board (doesn't paint very well) and plywood ( doesn't hold together very good because of the glued together layers). Any advice would be appreciated.

Plywood will hold up outside for years if you get EXTERIOR plywood with at least 4 or 5 ply. I have made many signs and art pieces from it and have some that are 10 or more years old hung on the outside of the house. Some are natural and some have to be painted every few years. I use from 3/8 to 1" and have had no complaints.



Larry

P. S. The thicker the panel the more ply's you want.