One of the great things about owning a CNC machine is that you can easily turn ideas into a small side, or even a full-time business. Once you learn the basics, all it takes is a little creativity and you can make not only crafty projects, but items that can be purchased by people as a keepsake or heirloom to remember times shared with loved ones on vacation. This is exactly what Chris Rauch has done with his business, Studio Creative, located on Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

Chris is a full time mechanical engineer and navel architect developing underwater robotics systems used for science applications and defense work. Having owned a CNC machine shop in the past, Chris new the possibilites that he could realize by owning a CNC machine with the ability to start a side business with the help of his son to create custom souvenirs for the tourists that visit Cape Cod each year.

This is the Notebook that Chris spoke about on the podcast. It is make from two different veneers that are laminated together after the design is lasered onto it.

Chris owns a STEPCRAFT D.840 CNC system with a MM-1000 Spindle and Automatic Tool Changer. He also purchased his system with the DL-445 Laser attachment so he can quickly change from laser projects to CNC milling/cutting projects.

Photos of Projects that Chris Made

Laser EngravingVery small detailed engravingMachining mold for carbon fibre partFinished Carbon fiber partCarbon fiber part as it came out of the moldCarbon fiber part curing in a vacuum forming fixtureMachining a moldAnchor Notebook made from veneer Sailboat notebook made from veneer

Products Mentioned in this Episode:

Amazon Canvas – www.amazoncanvas.comVectric Software – www.vectric.comStepcraft CNC – www.stepcraft.usAmana Tools – www.amanatools.comFS Wizard App – www.fswizard.com

Tips From This Episode:

Copy A Tool For Multiple UsesSometimes you have a tool that you use in different materials where each tool is has different feed and speed settings. You can make this easier by making copies of the tool in the Vectric tool library and simply rename the tool for the material or application that you have it setup for. Example, “1/8″ 2 Flute UpCut Endmill (For Pine)” and “1/8” 2 Flute UpCut Endmill (for Cherry).