Appreciation post: My $3000 CNC upgrade was a total waste for my custom shop

Everyone says you need a CNC for modern cabinet work, but after six months with a new benchtop model, I've spent more time fixing tool paths and babysitting cuts than I ever did with my router jigs. The precision is great for flat-pack boxes, but it kills the flexibility I need for one-off built-ins and curved details. Am I the only one who thinks the push for full automation overlooks what hands-on craftsmanship actually provides?

3 comments

3 Comments

taylor.jessica9d ago

Switched back to my track saw and templates for most custom work. The CNC only runs when I have a stack of identical cabinet boxes to cut. Some tools just aren't worth the hassle for one-off jobs.

rivera.hannah9d ago

Ugh, sounds like you bought a very expensive paperweight. Some tools just create more work than they save.

victor6519d ago

Tell me about it! I bought this fancy kitchen gadget that was supposed to julienne veggies in seconds. It took me longer to clean all its little parts than it would have taken to just use a knife. Now it just takes up a whole drawer.