Master CNC Design: Creating a Perfect Marble Maze! - 1/3

Designing a CNC router woodworking project from start to finish involves an understanding of how to think and visualize the end project.

In this CNC project tutorial (part 1), we walk through designing a marble maze. I’ll take you step by step through the entire design process using the @vectric design software —from concept to a fully structured plan in Vectric design software.

You'll learn many design tools, including how to source the right kind of maze bitmap, import and size it properly, optimize the design, and prepare it for CNC machining. This is the first video in a three-part series, where I break down every detail so you can create a perfectly working marble maze, and understand design concepts.

This is more than just a tutorial—it's an in-depth look at how to think through CNC projects with the final assembly in mind. You’ll discover key design principles, software tricks, and best practices that will save you time and frustration. Plus, I’ll show you how to work with layers, sheets, and toolpaths to ensure your design translates flawlessly to your CNC router.
ROUTER BITS USED FOR MARBLE MAZE PROJECT
- 1/4" Down-Cut Ballnose → https://idcwoodcraft.com/BD-14
* NOTE: The marble maze file and 3/16" ball bearing comes with this bit
- 3/16" Compression Endmill → https://www.idcwoodcraft.com/CM-316
- 1/8" Lightning Drill Bit → https://www.idcwoodcraft.com/DR-18
- 1/8" O-Flute Bit → https://www.idcwoodcraft.com/OF-18
- Get all 4 bits as a Bundle (maze file included)
• https://idcwoodcraft.com/products/cnc-router-bit-set-for-maze-making
- Just get the Marble Mazer file only
• https://www.click.idcwoodcraft.com/free-marble-maze-files

MATERIALS NEEDED FOR MARBLE MAZE:
- Bamx Wood → https://link.idcwoodcraft.com/qbib57
- Plexiglass used for maze cover → https://amzn.to/3VUuu9o
- #8 x 5/8" Brass Screws → https://amzn.to/3EHmKSy

LINKS & PRODUCTS MENTIONED:
- Maze Generator → https://keesiemeijer.github.io/maze-generator/
- Calipers → https://link.idcwoodcraft.com/vp2a3e

MARBLE MAZE VIDEO SERIES:
- Part 1: Marble Maze Step-by-step Design → https://youtu.be/9s4JOyL0Y1w
- Part 2 - Marble Maze Toolpaths → https://youtu.be/WDWeLYWmMd0
- Part 3 - Marble Maze CNC Setup & Run → https://youtu.be/XE6r-4WlaoA

OTHER VIDEOS MENTIONED IN THIS SERIES:
- Understanding Layers in Vectric → https://youtu.be/ujA7Uug9ph8
- How to Set Up Your Post Processor → https://youtu.be/1jV4AhQV-2s
- What is a Post Processor → https://youtu.be/wQ0vgXbSRr4
- The Down and Out Rule for Toolpath Creation →
- How to Create Exact Hole Sizes → https://youtu.be/G0N7Nm3wbfU
- Gsender Tutorial → https://youtu.be/ax_HgInv50o
- Altmill CNC Router Complete Review → https://youtu.be/CoU-08aTNgs
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ROUTER BITS FOR CNC ROUTERS
- 12pc Complete CNC Router Bit Starter Set → https://www.idcwoodcraft.com/11P-SET-W
- 6pc Essentials CNC Router Bit Starter Set → https://www.idcwoodcraft.com/6P-SET
- 1” Ultra-Smooth Cutting Surfacing Bit → https://www.idcwoodcraft.com/SU-10
- Other bits: IDC Woodcraft Website → www.idcwoodcraft.com
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IDC Woodcraft Mobile App (FREE)
- Apple → https://link.idcwoodcraft.com/vax4kc
- Android → https://link.idcwoodcraft.com/32hhz5
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OTHER ‘MUST HAVES’ FOR CNC ROUTERS
- Calipers → https://link.idcwoodcraft.com/vp2a3e
- Sanding/Buffing Brushes → https://link.idcwoodcraft.com/u01ge2
- CA Glue - 10% Off with Code: "IDC WOODCRAFT": https://link.idcwoodcraft.com/5fj21e
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RECOMMENDED DESIGN SOFTWARE
- Vcarve Pro (RECOMMENDED) → https://link.idcwoodcraft.com/c19df4
- Vcarve Desktop → https://link.idcwoodcraft.com/63mso5
- Vectric Aspire → https://link.idcwoodcraft.com/7zfwyp
- Cut2D Desktop → https://www.vectric.com/products/cut2d/idcwoodcraft
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COMPLETE VECTRIC SOFTWARE TRAINING → https://academy.learnyourcnc.com/a/2147507626/CqkFCPi3
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GSENDER CNC CONTROL → https://sienci.com/gsender/?ref=IDCWOODCRAFT
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CNC RESOURCES
- CNC Set Up Checklist → https://link.idcwoodcraft.com/xi8r0n
- Ultimate CNC Router Buyer’s Guide → https://link.idcwoodcraft.com/xxakuh
- Machine Setup Checklist → https://link.idcwoodcraft.com/yz5k2m
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RECOMMENDED CNC ROUTERS
- Altmill CNC Router → https://link.idcwoodcraft.com/k0ecg7
- Longmill CNC Router → https://link.idcwoodcraft.com/a0x8z9
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CNC ENTREPRENEURS Facebook Group → https://www.facebook.com/groups/cncentrepreneurs
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Email: garrett@idcwoodcraft.com