A couple years ago I purchased a 3018 Desktop CNC router from an online retailer. My goal was to learn more about CNC applications and usage, with the goal of eventually graduating to a larger version to manufacture various things. I’m still far away from a larger model, but for now it’s quite a bit of fun to be able to make your own parts for things. Between this and my 3d printer, there isn’t a lot of designs I can’t make given the time or design capability.

I’ve found Teaching Tech on YouTube, and this video in particular has given some great ideas about upgrading. For example, replacing the stock spindle with a Dremel tool. Since I happened to have an extra one laying around my garage, I just might do this!

I’m also becoming much more familiar with sites like Ali Express and dx.com. They offer relatively inexpensive electronics (among many other things) and are a great resource for things like LCD screens, stepper motor controllers, etc. I’ll definitely spend some time browsing them. Always looking for a good deal!