Grouping Vectors, Creating Layers, and Creating Linear Arrays in VCarve, Aspire, and Cut 2D

There are times when you’ll want to create several copies of a single part and calculate toolpaths to cut them all out. Fortunately for us, the folks at Vectric have included several ways of getting the job done without the need to draw each individual copy. The use of layers, linear arrays, and grouping vectors all come together to make this task a lot easier. [expand title=”Read More”]

Since VCarve Pro is a Windows based program, there are several ways to do the same thing. I’ll demonstrate one way to get the job done in this video.

In the video, I draw out 150 small parts for a fictitious customer. Along the way I explain how I copy vectors, group vectors, align vectors with one another. I’ll demonstrate how to place vectors on individual layers and why. I’ll show you how to use the Linear Array tool to keep from having to draw 150 copies of the same part.

I did not cut these parts out in real life, but if I did, I’d certainly use the masking tape and superglue method of mounting the work material to my spoil board. I can’t think of another way to mount the material that would be as effective. I also wouldn’t cut all the way through the material. Instead, I’d cut to within a few thousandths of cutting all the way through, then sand through the back of the material to release the parts from the skeleton. This method is known as onion skinning. We’ll get into that technique further in another article.

If you noticed the typo in the title thumbnail, score yourself 5 bonus observation points.

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