Designing a CNC Test Block in Vectric: Step-by-Step Tutorial for Beginners
In this video, I walk through a step-by-step process using Vectric software to design a test block for determining optimal hole sizes for CNC “dogs” or hold-downs. A client provided a test block as a starting point, and I’ve created this detailed guide assuming little to no prior experience with Vectric tools.
Whether you’re new to CNC or just getting started with Vectric, this tutorial will help you understand essential design and toolpath techniques to create a reliable test block that ensures a precise fit.
Tools and Techniques Demonstrated:
➡️ Set Object Size / Resize Tool (Transform Objects)
➡️ Using Math in Data Fields for efficiency
➡️ Dimension Tools (Create Vectors section)
➡️ Measurement Tool vs. Dimension Tool (Edit Objects section)
➡️ Snapping: Turning on & setting object locations
➡️ Mirror Selected Objects Tool (Transform Objects)
➡️ Text Tool for labeling (Create Vectors)
➡️ Centering Objects: Vertical, Horizontal, and Both (Align Objects)
➡️ Creating and Organizing Layers
Toolpath Creation:
➡️ Without using layers
➡️ Using layers for better control
➡️ Using Z as a variable for referencing material thickness and cutting all the way through
Purpose of This Video: To provide a clear, beginner-friendly walkthrough that helps my client—and others—understand how to use Vectric’s tools to replicate and modify a CNC test block. This is ideal for makers, hobbyists, and professionals looking to build reliable fixtures and setups.
