V-Carve Signs · Laser Generator Studio
V-Carve Sign Generator: CNC Carved Lettering and G-code
Carved lettering for a CNC V-bit: the bit goes deeper where letters are wider, giving sharp corners and chiselled walls. Border groove, cut-out and ready-to-run GRBL G-code.
- Exports
- G-code (GRBL), SVG, PNG preview
- Works with
- Shapeoko, X-Carve, Onefinity, LongMill, Genmitsu and other GRBL routers
- Materials
- Pine, oak, walnut, cedar, MDF, HDPE
What it makes
The V-Carve Signs studio makes carved lettering for a CNC router. Type your text, choose a font and a V-bit, and the studio works out how deep the bit must go at every point so the walls meet in sharp lines. Add a border groove and a cut-out, and export ready-to-run G-code for GRBL routers.
Options
| Option | What it does |
|---|---|
| Text and font | Your words, in fonts that carve well |
| V-bit angle | 60 or 90 degrees, or your own bit |
| Max depth | Limits how deep wide letters go |
| Border groove | A carved frame around the text |
| Cut-out | An outline cut with an end mill |
How it works
- Type the text and pick a font.
- Set the board size and the V-bit you have.
- Add a border and cut-out if you want.
- Export the G-code, zero on the board and run it.
Tips
- Seal softwoods first. A coat of sealer before carving stops paint bleeding into the grain.
- Paint, then sand. Fill the letters with paint, let it dry, then sand the face clean.
- Get the speeds right with the CNC feeds and speeds calculator.
Laser instead of CNC? The business sign generator makes engraved and cut signs for lasers.
Export
G-code for GRBL routers, plus an SVG of the layout and a PNG preview.
Questions
What is V-carving?
A V-shaped bit carves each letter, going deeper where the letter is wider and rising up in narrow parts. The result has crisp corners and angled walls that look hand-chiselled.
Which bit should I use?
A 60 or 90 degree V-bit is most common. A 60 degree bit carves deeper and sharper; a 90 degree bit is shallower and suits wider letters.
Can I run the G-code straight away?
Yes, on GRBL-based routers. Zero the bit on the top of the board at the origin shown in the preview.
Can it cut the sign out too?
Yes. Add a border groove and an outline cut-out with an end mill.
What feeds and speeds should I use?
Use the CNC settings studio for your machine, bit and wood. Start slower on hardwoods.