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ShopBot Blog

A Journey into ShopBot: Michael Caul and his Desktop CNC

In every monthly ShopBot eNews, we ask, “Do you own or use a ShopBot CNC and want to share your story? Let us know!” Every once in a while we get a response that just tickles us. Here’s a great example of discovering ShopBot and how that led to purchasing a machine and progressing skills along the way.

Michael smiling while standing in front of his ShopBot Desktop CNC machine. sample wood projects are displayed on the CNC machine.

“My first experience with Shopbot was with an adult CNC class at NC State craft center. They offered an evening class which I took and was enamored with the Shopbot. Buying my own bits to use on their machine. At first it was signs, boxes, and projects from Vectric. I decided to buy my own Shopbot and was lucky enough to find a used Desktop machine for sale not far from my home.

I purchased it about 10 years ago. I made signs and small boxes for my neighbors, all while living in a townhome with a second story balcony and storage area. I would pull the CNC out of the storage area and hook it to a dust collector, all while enjoying the fresh air.

We then moved to a home with an outbuilding with power and lights. I still loved making the Vectric free projects, but decided to expand my knowledge. I have since made lots of different items, including a rocking chair, cutting the rockers using the tiling tool path I learned about on Shopbot tutorials and parts that have v-carving. Made a matching table with v-carving and various other items. I’m 78 so everything I make is fun for me. I sent some pictures of the rocking chair, table and a game board I made for my son and daughter-in-law. The grand kids in Michigan got a board, too.”

Michael Caul

Michael has come a long way on his ShopBot journey. We’re happy to share his story and terrific projects. Share your ShopBot story with us by emailing marketing@shopbottools.com.