Introduction:

2D CAD in the context of manufacturing focuses on generating vectors for output to CAM software, in our case Vectric VCarve. Additionally, the Intro to 2D CAD course can provide the basics on designing for the laser engravers, as well as most of our CNC machines.

To generate vectors, this means that you need to use a vector design program. For the purposes of this course, I will be using Inkscape as the software of choice. Inkscape is free to use and available on MacOS, Windows, and Linux operating systems.

What Do I Need?

A computer running Mac, Windows, or Linux (including Chromebooks)
Inkscape software if you wish to follow along with this guide.

Other applicable programs are Adobe Illustrator, AutoCAD, DraftSight, CorelDraw, and more.

We'll also want to use a mouse that has a left click, right click, and scroll wheel to follow along exactly. Doing CAD with a touchpad is a terrible experience.

What Authorizations Do I Need?

Woodshop for the ShapeOko/X-Carve and ShopBot
- These will introduce you to the tools you need to cut your stock to size and to fixture your work.