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Lacados LAKManual Vectric Aspire V12

How to create a v-carved sign in Vectric software | Getting Started

Overview

Section titled “Overview”

This video demonstrates how to create a V-carved sign from an imported vector file in Vectric software. It covers importing and scaling a DXF, adding a rounded offset border, generating V-carve and profile toolpaths, and editing text to repurpose the design for a broader audience.

Steps

Section titled “Steps”

  1. Create a new job

    • Single-sided job
    • Width: 12 inches
    • Height: 5 inches
    • Thickness: 0.75 inches
    • Units: inches
    • Zero from material surface
    • XY datum: bottom left corner
    • Use standard resolution (no 3D content)
    • Material: walnut

  2. Import the vector file

    • Go to the Design tab > File Operations
    • Import bullshead sign.dxf
    • The vectors will appear centered in the job

  3. Scale and center the design

    • Select the imported vectors
    • Click the bottom-right scale handle
    • Enter 11 inches width; height scales proportionally
    • Use the alignment tool to center the design on the material

  4. Create a rounded offset border

    • Select the vector to offset
    • Go to Offset and Layout Tools > Offset Vectors
    • Offset outward by 0.25 inches
    • Uncheck Create sharp offset corners for smooth rounded corners
    • Press Escape to close the form

  5. Verify material setup

    • Go to the Toolpath tab
    • Confirm thickness: 0.75 in
    • Confirm datum: bottom left
    • Confirm rapid Z-gaps and home position are safe
    • No 3D content, so resolution setting can be low
    • Click OK

  6. Create the V-carve toolpath

    • Select all center vectors except the outside border
    • Open the V-carve toolpath
    • Start depth: 0
    • Flat depth: none (allow V-bit to cut as deep as possible)
    • Use the 60-degree V-bit
    • No clearance tool
    • Rename toolpath: V-carve
    • Click Calculate

  7. Preview the V-carve toolpath

    • Open the 3D preview
    • Confirm the design looks correct
    • Close the preview

  8. Create the cutout profile toolpath

    • Select the outside border vector
    • Open the Profile toolpath
    • Start depth: 0
    • Set material thickness quickly by typing Z + = in the thickness field
    • Use a 1/4-inch end mill
    • Cut outside the vector line
    • No ramps, plunge moves, or tabs
    • Rename toolpath: Cutout
    • Click Calculate

  9. Preview the final cut

    • Preview visible toolpaths
    • In the 3D view, double-click waste material to inspect the finished sign appearance

  10. Edit the vector text for a new sign

    • Return to the Design tab and press F to focus on the sheet
    • Open Draw Text and type: backyard barbecue
    • Use Rockwell Condensed font as a close match to the original
    • Remove the leading B from the text element
    • Measure the original U and D width: 6.6 inches
    • Select the new text and set width to 6.6 inches with Link XY disabled
    • Drag guidelines to the top and bottom of the U
    • Use the measurement tool to measure gap between the text and border: 0.0666 inches (note as 0.067)
    • Delete the original bull’s head text and vectors
    • Select the remaining vector and enter node editing mode
    • Cut the vector at nodes to separate the unwanted section, delete it, then join the open ends with a line to finish the border shape
    • Move the new text into place using the recorded gap and guidelines

Key Points / Warnings

Section titled “Key Points / Warnings”
  • These tools are available in VCarve Desktop, VCarve Pro, and Aspire. Cut2D users will need to upgrade to use this workflow.
  • Always check the material setup before calculating toolpaths.
  • Use F to focus on the sheet and frame the design quickly.
  • When