Carving a Greek column using the Lock & Key technique

Carving a Greek column using the Lock & Key technique

This video explains the Lock & Key technique to carve 3D objects on 4 sides with the CNC router, using only a few pieces of MDF, and a smart design strategy of the tool paths. I carved a Greek column as an example, to walk you through the steps of the process.

Software used:

• Meshmixer to modify the Corinthian (Greek) column
• Vectric VCarve to design the locks and keys, and to generate the tool paths
• UGS Platform to send the Gcode to the CNC

Materials used:

• Branch with an average diameter of 100 mm and a length of at least 600 mm
• Epoxy resin (from the Epoxy Resin Store)
• Gold Mica powder
• MDF board
• Duct tape: 3M #2979
• Roughing bit: Amana Tool end mill #46577
• Finishing bits: Amana Tool tapered ball nose #46281