Click-N-Carve CNC

Compact and quiet with a simple game-like interface.

A sure sign that CNC routing is catching on with woodworkers is the increasing number of benchtop CNC machines that are available.

The Click-N-Carve is simple to learn and operate. Its game-like controller includes all the basic commands needed to control its movements.

With its retro paint job and computer game-like interface, the Click-N-Carve—one of the newest benchtop machines—features a contemporary approach. Beyond its looks, the Click-and-Carve is an entry-level model that’s simple and straightforward to operate. It runs quieter than most electric hand drills and functions pretty much as its name implies—you click and it carves.

Translate photos directly into carvings, using the Click-N-Carve’s photo-to-carving software. This penny carving was created without any additional editing, from a photo that had nice, even contrast. The process went straight from photo to software to routing.

The Click-N-Carve’s design software converts photos into relief carvings with only a few mouse clicks. As with most photo-to-carving software, dark areas carve deep and light areas are left high.  That means the results are highly dependent on the contrast levels in the photo. One of Click-N-Carve’s editing features allows you to raise selected sections of a photo image, such as the hair or clothing. The results aren’t perfect, but photo-to-carving software is a developing technology and is sure to get better in the future. 

Import 3D carving models from other sources with ease. This design was imported from the VectorArt3D.com website. Once imported to the Click-N-Carve, the model’s size (including its depth) can easily be changed. The ability to import 3D models is a nice benefit, and expands the usefulness of any machine.

The Click-N-Carve is best suited for light-duty relief carving in wood and hard plastics, partly because it uses small 4mm dia. bits. The machine’s software does however, accept 2D vector line art, 3D models, and even g-code created by other software packages—a laudable feature.