Three Solutions to the Problem of Shallow Engraving

Not being able to get enough depth into the carving is a problem that both amateur and professional woodcarvers often encounter.We offer three quick and effective solutions, covering machine settings, tool selection, and material processing.

A common cause of insufficient depth.

Many people discover that when they are carving, the pattern they had designed with a strong three-dimensional feel turns out flat, like a sticker.Before you start doubting your own skill, first check whether any of these three factors are responsible for the problem: 1) The machine's parameters are not set properly; 2) The wrong type of tool is being used; or 3) The material is too hard and has not been processed sufficiently.

Solution 1: Check the parameters of the engraving machine.

The parameters of the engraving machine are like the heat used when cooking. If not set correctly, the result is "half-cooked.

Confirm that the spindle speed and feed rate match.

If the spindle speed is too high while the feed rate is too low, the cutting tool may easily "slip" on the surface. If the spindle speed is too low, there will not be enough cutting force.In most cases, wood is recommended to be cut at 8000-12000 rpm. The speed for metal is lower, at 3000-5000 rpm.

The depth of the cut and the layering strategy are adjusted.

If you cut too deeply, you can get the blade stuck. But if you make too many layers, the blade will rub against the surface over and over again.Try not to cut any deeper than one-third of the diameter of the blade. For example, if you are using a 6 mm flat-bottomed blade, it is safer to limit the depth of each cut to 2 mm or less.

The second solution: replace the tool.

Choosing the wrong knife is like trying to cut pork ribs with a fruit knife.

The angle of the blade tip is determined by the hardness of the material.

A 30-degree blade is used when carving cork or acrylic, and it can be used to carve fine lines. But when carving hardwood or metal, a 60-degree or even duller blade must be employed. This type of blade can withstand more pressure and is more durable.

The machine checks the condition of the cutting tools.

If you have used a tool for more than 20 hours, don't be stingy.A worn chisel is like a blunt pencil, and the lines it cuts will be fuzzy and not as deep as intended.

Plan 3: Optimize the pre-processing of materials.

No matter how good your knife skills are, they are no match for frozen butter. How the materials are handled has a direct impact on the final effect of the carving.

It is also important to calibrate the flatness of the surface.

Especially when carving large pieces, it is important to check the thickness of the four corners of the board with calipers. If the difference exceeds 0.5 millimeters, the board must be sanded or re-secured, otherwise the carving machine will make a mistake in its calculations.

Trying to soften special materials.

For hard materials like rosewood and buffalo horn, try steaming them for five minutes (but don't soak them in water!). This will reduce the resistance of the wood, and also lower the risk of chipping.

And finally, before you begin carving, make sure to test your chisel and hammer by carving a small design on a scrap of wood.It's better to have uniform marks of a certain depth than to ruin the whole piece.