How to use the VCarve toolpath in Vectric software | 2.5D Toolpaths

Overview

This video explains how to use the VCarve toolpath in Vectric software to create decorative 2.5D carvings from closed vectors. It covers basic setup, tool selection, start depth behavior, and important considerations for achieving clean, consistent v-carving results.

Steps

1. Verify job setup for the sheet you are using

   • Open Job Setup and check material width, height, thickness, and datum position.
   • Ensure the material modeling resolution is appropriate. Switch from “Standard” to “Very High” if 3D content is added.

2. Check material setup in the Toolpaths tab

   • Confirm material thickness, datum position, and rapid Z gaps.
   • Set Z-zero to the top of the material surface. This is critical for accurate v-carving depth.

3. Create a new V-Carve toolpath

   • Go to the Toolpaths tab and select the V-Carve toolpath option.

4. Set start depth and flat depth

   • Start depth is normally 0 for carving from the top surface.
   • Use a positive start depth to place v-carving into an already-cut pocket or to make lettering bolder.
   • Flat depth is optional; use it to prevent the tool from cutting too deep or all the way through the material.

5. Choose a v-bit

   • Open the tool database and select the appropriate v-bit.
   • Match the tool angle to the desired depth and visual effect.
   • Rename the toolpath to reflect the selected tool angle.

6. Select a closed vector

   • Select a closed vector or set of closed vectors before calculating.
   • V-carving cannot be calculated without closed vector selection.
   • Click Calculate.

7. Preview the toolpath

   • The software will auto-switch to the 3D view after calculation.
   • Use Preview Visible Toolpath to inspect the result.
   • Zoom in to check sharp points and gaps between letters.

8. Experiment with different tool angles and start depths

   • Repeat the process with other v-bit angles to see how depth changes.
   • Adjust start depth to control boldness, but watch for letters becoming too close together.

Key Points / Warnings

• V-carve depth is determined by the tool angle and the width between opposite vectors. The tool is forced down until its side walls meet the vectors.
• Only closed vectors can be v-carved. Overlapping vectors can confuse the software; split them into separate toolpaths if needed.
• Flat material is essential. Variations in material thickness or machine leveling affect perceived v-carve depth.
• Always zero the tool accurately off the top of the material surface to get true depth and sharp entry/exit points.
• Measure the actual v-bit angle — a nominal 90° bit can be off by a degree and change the result.
• Inspect v-bits for sharp points. Dull points degrade the carved detail.
• Serif/individual-letter fonts carve cleanly. Script or overlapping fonts may need multiple toolpaths or special handling to avoid unwanted intersections.
• Use a positive start depth carefully; it makes letters bolder but also reduces the gap between close features, such as between an “R” and an “I”.