Frequently Asked Questions

Machine Questions

What is the CarveWright machine able to do?

You can think of the CarveWright machine as a desktop publishing system for wood and other
soft materials. The easy to use CarveWright Designer software lets the user create original
designs without having to use complicated CAD software. Once the design is ready, the
information is uploaded to the machine via a memory card and carved. The machine can carve,
cut, surface, edge route, and miter a workpiece with a variety of bits and techniques. To see a
sampling of what can be done with the machine, visit the CarveWright website. Check out the
Projects/The Results page, the Customer Gallery or the gallery in the Users forum.
The machine requires no prior knowledge of machine tools. It does almost all of the setup with
its sensors and prompts the user for information when required.

What are the specifications of the CarveWright machine?

Package Size: 28.5” x 20.25” x 18”
Package Weight: 78 lbs (35.4 kg)
Machine Weight: 70 lbs (31.8 kg)
Cut Motor Speed (No Load): 20,000 rpm

Cut Motor Horsepower (Peak): 1.0 Hp
Electrical Rating: 110VAC at 8 A, 60 HZ
Maximum Workpiece Size: 14.5” wide x 5.0” tall x 12’ long (Limited by weight)
Minimum Workpiece Size: 1.5” wide x 0.5” tall x 7.0” long

How long can the machine run?

The machine can run for long periods of time under normal operating conditions. We have carved projects that have taken six or more hours with no problems. Under heavy loading it is recommended that you periodically let the cutting head cool down.

Do I have to manually set the speed and feed rate for the machine?

The machine automatically sets the optimal speed and feed rates based on the function that it is performing. The user will never have to calculate or input this information.

What is the resolution of the machine?

The core capability of the CarveWright is as a carving machine. The machine configuration and control software are quite different than a classic mill. As such the terms resolution and accuracy are hard to correlate to what you expect from a classic milling machine. Our controllable resolution is .00025” on the Y and Z-axes and .0015” on the X-axis. The accuracy of any single raster carving line is on the order of .005”-.010” in the y and Z and the step width is between .005” and .010” depending on the quality setting you choose. When you are talking accuracy of position of two elements across a 60” board the value is even higher.

Is it possible to run the machine on 220V AC?

The tool currently runs only on 60 Hz 110V AC.

What are the suggested operating conditions for the machine?

The recommended operating environment is between 60F and 100F.

Does the machine have a dust collection system?

The machine does have a vacuum impeller built-in as well as an external vacuum port that fits 2-1/4" OD hose. The built-in vacuum system maintains airflow through the machine and removes airborne dust that can build up on the sensors. It is not designed to remove all generated chips and dust. Most of the dust generated by the CarveWright remains confined in the machine and
will not affect the machine performance. After every project simply vacuum or use compressed air to clear the dust. The machine is designed to allow dust and larger debris to fall through the bottom of the machine via a cutout. The most effective way to remove this dust without voiding the machine’s warranty is to setup a downdraft vacuum system. Customers have reported great success using this method. Please see our user forums for more information.

Project and Board Specifications

What materials can the machine carve?

The CarveWright can work in most soft materials including wood (including exotic hardwoods),
suitable plastic, and foam. Any materials outside these families are not to be used with the
machine unless explicitly stated by CarveWright. At present, the CarveWright does not carve in
metal, ceramic tile, stone, glass, or concrete.

What wood types produce the best carving results?

We have found that hard materials with tight grains produce the best finishes. In most cases, feathering and chip out will increase as the grain size increases. Also dry materials tend to produce a better quality finish.

What are the maximum workpiece dimensions?

The machine can handle a workpiece up to 14.5” wide x 5.0” tall and 12 feet long. The maximum length in most cases is dependent on the weight of the workpiece and is related to both quality of the carving and longevity of the drive mechanism. Any workpiece more than 20 lbs in weight places increased stress on the drive mechanism and will accelerate wear of the system. Although there is no physical limit to workpiece length, stand-alone support rollers should be used on any workpiece over 3 feet long to achieve the best results.

What are the minimum workpiece dimensions?

The minimum acceptable size of a workpiece that can be inserted into the CarveWright is 1.5” wide x 0.5” thick x 7.0” long. It will be necessary to mount the workpiece onto a jig if any single dimension is smaller than the stated minimums. We are currently developing and testing several jigs for specialized situations such as this.

What is the maximum depth of cut?

The maximum depth of cut is 1.0” with the 1/8” cutting bit and 0.8” with the 1/16” carving bit.

What is the output quality of the cutting passes?

Like a printer, projects can be configured to run in a draft mode (low quality), normal quality, or best quality depending on the situation. The quality mode dictates the speed of the cut and amount of material removed per pass. On the best quality setting the spacing between passes is .006”.

How long does a typical project take to carve?

The carving time of each project is determined by four main variables: the size of the project, the quality setting selected, the depth of cut, and the cutting mode. Like a printer, the user can select the output quality. The higher the quality setting selected the longer the project will take to run. The CarveWright produces carvings by two different cut modes; raster carving and vector carving modes. Raster carvings are produced by making many small passes with the cutting bit, building the image one line at a time. A vector carving is produced when the bit follows a 3-D path generated by the software. Vector carvings are typically much faster than raster carvings. The software will estimate total cut time when you upload the project to the memory card. For comparison the top of the small jewelry box (8.5” x 5.5” x 3.5”) on the Results page of the website took one hour to carve in normal quality. The larger box (10” x 13” x 6”) took 5 hours at high quality.

Can both sides of the material be carved?

The CarveWright software enables you to place designs on both sides of the workpiece. Many times a two sided design will require a special jig because of the way the machine moves and measures the material. The machine does not currently have the capability to fully carve in the round although the machine has been designed to allow this feature in the future.

Can I seam two pieces together to create a larger piece?

The machine has the precision to output multiple pieces that will line up well when seamed together if the project is laid out correctly in the software.

Can the machine cut all the way through the material?

Yes the drive belt configuration allows the machine to plunge any bit below the bottom surface of the workpiece. The machine is also configured so that the entire topside of the material can be carved.

How does the machine perform cutouts without the loose pieces interfering?

The software automatically adds small tabs that bridge to any pieces that are cut out using the “Cut Out” function. These tabs keep the pieces from dropping out and binding the system or cutting bit. These tabs can be cut with a razor or snapped off after the piece is removed.

Can the machine do joinery?

The CarveWright can currently do miter and bevel cuts and can be commanded to do dados and rabbets. Future software packages will include other joinery functions like Dovetails.

Can the machine carve complex surfaces such as gunstocks or pistol grips?

Yes the machine can carve complex surfaces. A very accurate representation of an existing surface can be obtained by using the surface-scanning probe available on our website for $299.99. Many times a jig will be required to index the material to be carved.

Can I use my own bits?

The machine has a standard library of approved bits that it can draw from. Because of variations in bit geometry and size among different brands, only CarveWright brand bits can be used. Use of other bits may void the warranty. 90% of machine functionality is done with the included carving and cutting bits. Please visit the CarveWright website store for a listing of bits and bit sets.

How long will the carving bits last?

The 1/16” carving bit is solid carbide and will last for many hours if treated correctly. Lifetime is directly related to what materials are being cut. Cutting in materials with glue (such as plywood or particle board) will tend to wear the bit faster. The typical reason a carving bit needs to be replaced is that it is dropped and the tip is chipped.

Can you use more than one bit during a project?

The software will allow the user to create projects that use as many of the CarveWright approved bits as desired. On projects that use more than one bit, the machine will prompt the user for each bit, as it is needed. The patented quick-change system makes changing bits fast and easy.

Does the software automatically select the bits for the user?

It depends on what functions are being commanded. Some functions require certain bits while other functions can use any one of many user selectable bits.

What is the capacity of the memory card?

The capacity of the memory card is large enough to hold a significant number of projects and scans. How many it will hold depends on the size of the individual projects. Typically we get 30 to 40 projects on a card. If the card fills up, simply delete some of the files using the Flash Manager in the software. As long as you keep the project file on your computer you can re-upload it at any time.

Can I buy additional memory cards and programmers?

Additional memory cards and programmers can be purchased online at our web store for those using more than one design computer.

Can you connect the machine directly to your computer?

There is no need or accommodation for connecting the machine directly to a computer. The CarveWright is configured this way is so that your computer will not have to be exposed to the shop environment. The machine comes with a memory card and a memory card programmer that plugs into a USB port on you computer. Once a project is downloaded from you computer to the card (via the programmer) you simply remove the card and insert it into the memory card slot in the machine. Also, the machine is not wireless compatible.

Software FAQ

Computer Questions

Can I try the software before I purchase the machine?

Yes, on the main website page there is a link for ‘Downloads’ that will allow you to download and use the software for 30 days. Simply fill in the information and hit the ‘Send’ button. This will give you full functionality of the software. Once you purchase your machine, you can continue using the same software by registering your machine.

What operating systems does the software operate on?

The software is available for Windows and Macintosh operating systems. Specifically the software will run on Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista (testing), and Mac OS X version 10.4 or higher. We are currently testing compatibility with Windows Vista and have many customers that are using the software on Vista. However we are not Vista certified at the moment. Please contact us with any Vista installation issue.

What are the computer system requirements for the software?

Windows Operating System
• Microsoft Windows XP with Service Pack 2, Windows 2000, or Windows Vista
• 128MB of RAM (256 MB or greater recommended)
• 75MB of available hard-disk space
• CD-ROM compatible drive
• Internet or phone connection required for software activation*
• Internet connection required for software/firmware upgrades (Broadband recommended)
• Graphics card with OpenGL support for GPU-accelerated playback

Macintosh Operating System
• Mac OS X version 10.4 or later
• 128MB of RAM (256 MB or greater recommended)
• 75MB of available hard-disk space
• CD-ROM compatible drive
• Internet or phone connection required for software activation*
• Internet connection required for software/firmware upgrades (Broadband recommended)

What text fonts will the machine carve?

The CarveWright design software is able to use all fonts already installed on your computer. This means that there are no proprietary fonts that you have to buy with the machine. There are three distinct text effects that can be created with the software. Raster mode carves the letters with thin passes, one after another; similar to the way a printer works. Outlining text produces a cut at the perimeter of the letter. Centerline text will generate a centerline and vary the depth of the cutting bit based on the width of the original font.

Software Updates/Upgrades

How do I update the software?

For users with a high-speed Internet connection, updating the software is very fast and easy. Simply open the CarveWright Designer software and make sure that you are connected to the Internet. From the top toolbar select “Help”. From the Help drop down menu select “Check for Updates”. The software will then open a window that will display your current software build and guide you through the update process if needed.

For what period of time will online updates be provided as part of the purchase price?
Online updates to the base software and software support are provided free of charge for one year. Typically, updates include bug fixes and small feature improvements.

Can we run the software on more than one computer?

Customers are allowed to install the software on up to two computers at any one time.

Where do existing customers get software support?

Please direct all software related questions to CarveWright at 713-473-6572 or email us at
software@carvewright.com.

Image import ( 2D/3D )

Explain the basis of the software look and feel.

The fundamental concept behind the CarveWright Designer software is that the user does not have to be a CAD designer or graphic artist to output unique designs. We liken the software to desktop publishing software where the design elements (in this case 3-D patterns) can be selected from existing libraries.

Explain the 3-D element libraries.

The CarveWright design software is configured very much like a clip art program. There are libraries of 3-D elements that the user can drag and drop into the design. These elements can be modified in many different ways once they are placed on the workpiece. For example they can be resized, rotated, stretched, mirrored, inverted, copied, deepened, constrained, dimensioned, outlined, or cut out. Additional library elements will be available for purchase through a searchable online database. The price will depend on the element.

Can I add additional elements to the library?

There are several ways for users to add elements to the library. First, additional elements can be purchased through the CarveWright online database. Second, the CarveWright software can import standard graphics files and place them in the user’s custom library. Likewise photographs can be added to the library. Third, adding actual 3-D elements is possible with the CarveWright surface-scanning probe, which maps the surface of an existing 3-D element.

Can I import graphics to be carved?

You can import standard graphic files like .bmp, .png, .jpeg, .gif, and others into the software. It is important to note that the software imports the graphic and converts it into a gray scale object. This means that the darker areas are carved deeper and lighter colors are carved Shallower. Simple clip art designs and logos come out very well. Other more complex designs may take some editing to achieve the desired effect. The quality of the carved output is highly dependent on the resolution of the image that you are importing. High-resolution images are recommended especially if the carving is large in size. The software allows you to quickly invert the depth scale if desired.

Can I import photographs to be carved?

Photographs can be imported directly by the software and added to the workpiece. The software converts the photograph’s color directly to depth (black and white being at opposite ends of the spectrum). Importing photographs and carving them into semi-transparent plastic with backlighting creates a very interesting photographic effect (see the website Results page). Carving realistic 3-D photographs into wood takes additional image manipulation expertise simply because of the lack of information contained in the 2-D photograph.

Can I import files from other CAD packages?

Currently the software does not accommodate importing CAD file formats. Id does however allow for quick conversion of grayscale (or even color) images to 3-D images for use on the machine. It simply takes pixel intensity and converts it to depth. So if you can convert your designs to grayscale in your design package then the CarveWright software can import it. That being said it is a very high priority to be able to support other standard 3-D formats.

Advanced Features

Please explain the surface-scanning probe.

The scanning probe allows 3-D pieces to be scanned into the software and added to the library. The scanner creates a 3-D surface map by tracing the surface with the needle probe. The maximum scan depth is 1.0”. Most objects will need to be placed on a special scanning jig so that they can be fed into the machine. The scanning probe is now available for $299 online or by calling CarveWright direct.

What is the Pattern Editor?

The Pattern Editor is the program that is included with the purchase of a scanning probe. It allows scans done on the CarveWright machine to be imported into the software and edited before being saved as a pattern. Simple pixel level editing is possible using this software.

What is Centerline Text?

Centerline text functionality is another text carving option that will work with the fonts installed on your computer. The software will generate the centerline of the figure and create the figure width by varying the depth of the cutting bit. The centerline text carving is done with a 60 or 90-degree v-groove bit. The centerline text module can be purchased from the online store for $100.

Purchasing FAQ

Purchasing Information

How much does the CarveWright System cost?

The CarveWright System retails for $1899.99.

Where can I purchase a CarveWright System?

You can purchase a CarveWright System by contacting CarveWright at 713-473-6572 or by ordering from our online store at store.carvewright.com. We accept all major credit cards as well as personal checks and money orders.

What comes with the purchase price?

The machine comes with all of the hardware and software needed to immediately start producing original pieces. The purchase price includes everything needed to create 95% of the objects on the Results page of the CarveWright website. The package includes: the machine, the basic software suite, 3-D element libraries, cutting and carving bits with adapters, the bit release tool, the memory card and memory card programmer, warranty, and Operator’s Manual.

Is the machine subject to tax?

Tax is only included on orders shipped within Texas. This is valid for orders placed over the phone or website.

How much does the CarveWright cost to ship?

Currently the shipping is done by UPS ground and is dependent on location. You can visit www.ups.com for rate information. The CarveWright is shipped from Pasadena, Texas, 77504 and the box size is 28” x 20” x 18” and weighs 85 pounds.

Can units be purchased internationally?

The CarveWright is not currently available outside the continental US. We are working to expand our sales and service infrastructure to better serve the international market.

Where can additional carving patterns, accessories, and replacement parts be found?

Many additional machine accessories can be ordered from the online store or by calling 713-473-6572. Accessories include, bits, scanning probe, software patterns, and memory card.

Warranty Information

What is the warranty and return policy?

The CarveWright warranty covers parts and labor for one full year or 200 hours of cutting. The warranty excludes consumable items such as bits, sandpaper drive belts, and flexshafts. The machine tracks cutting time for this purpose. Shipping costs are not covered under the warranty. Our service center is located in Houston, TX. There is a 30-day return period after which no returns are accepted. There is also a restocking fee for returned machines. The warranty does not cover commercial or industrial use. Please click here to read the entire warranty.

Warranty

The CarveWright warranty covers parts and labor for one full year or 200 hours of cutting. The warranty excludes consumable items such as bits, sandpaper drive belts, and flexshafts. The machine tracks cutting time for
this purpose. Shipping costs are not covered under the warranty. Our service center is located in Houston, TX. There is a 30-day return period after which no returns are accepted. There is also a restocking fee for returned machines.
The warranty does not cover commercial or industrial use.

WARRANTY AND RETURN POLICY: CarveWright warrants that its products will perform in substantial compliance with the instructions and documentation supplied. CarveWright further warrants that all components of its products,
except those parts subject to normal wear and tear (e.g. bits, sandpaper belt drives, flex shafts, etc.) will be free from defects in material or workmanship for one (1) year or 200 hours of use whichever comes first from the date of purchase. SELLER’S SOLE OBLIGATION AND YOUR EXCLUSIVE REMEDY under this LIMITED WARRANTY and, to the extent permitted by law, any warranty or condition implied by law, shall be the repair of the machine or replacement of parts which are covered by this warranty, without charge, which are defective in material or workmanship and which have not been misused, carelessly handled, or mis-repaired by persons other than CarveWright. CarveWright reserves the right to use new or CarveWright remanufactured or refurbished components or CarveWright machines for warranty replacement. Components or machines repaired under warranty repairs will be returned to customer at the Customers expense via surface mail. Overnight or Express shipping will be at the customer’s expense. There are no warranties extending beyond the above warranties. All resold products constituting accessories and secondary components are subject to their own manufacturer’s warranties. Any misuse, careless handling or mis-repair voids this warranty. Except as specified above, CarveWright does not honor the warranties, extended warranties or return policies of any retailers at this time, including Sears. WARNING: MACHINES NOT PACKED IN THE ORIGINAL PACKAGING ARE DAMAGED IN SHIPPING MOST OF THE TIME. CUSTOMERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS DAMAGE WHICH CAN COST AS MUCH AS THE TOTAL PRICE OF THE MACHINE. For additional assistance, you may call 713-473-6572 and one of our customer service representatives will be glad to explain our warranty. Please have the invoice ready when you call. A copy of the invoice must accompany all returns.

CARVEWRIGHT RETURNS AND REFUNDS: Customers may return any item that is UNUSED within 30 days of purchase for a product refund with a 10% restocking fee*. All freight charges incurred in this transaction are
the responsibility of the customer. Refunds will be made on credit cards for credit card purchases and by company check for all other purchases. No returns for a refund will be accepted more than 30 days from the date of purchase.
Any item that has been used and is accepted by CarveWright for return within 30 days of the date of purchase will be subject to a 20% restocking fee; and, the customer will be charged for any missing components or damage to the
machine, parts or accessories. For additional assistance, you may call 713-473-6572 and one of our customer service representatives will be glad to explain our return and refund policies. Please have the invoice ready when you call. A copy of the invoice must accompany all returns.

The CarveWright is warranted for use in the United States only.

*Software, including Centerline Text is non-refundable.

Difference Between the CarveWright and CompuCarve Brands

What are the differences between the CarveWright and the CompuCarve brand machines?

Functionally, the CarveWright and Craftsman CompuCarve machines will be nearly identical. The warranty will also be the similar. There will be several small cosmetic differences and the price and product packages may vary from time to time based on special promotional offerings. The biggest difference is that CarveWright customers will receive support and service directly from the manufacture and developer.

Demonstrations of the CarveWright Woodworking Machine

Can I get an informational packet sent to me?

You can request an informational packet by calling 713-473-6572, sending us an e-mail request through the website, or by requesting it via mail. Also, all of the information regarding the CarveWright is available on the website including the operator’s manual, video demonstration, trial software and the FAQ. If you would like to have the video demonstration or free trial software sent to you in CD form, it can be purchased for $7.50. This cost is applicable toward the price of the machine if purchased.

Where can I see the CarveWright in action?

We are currently expanding our domestic demonstration schedule. You can view all planned shows and events on the Current Events tab of the CarveWright website.

Would it be possible to have a representative do a demonstration for my special group?

We are available for special demonstrations. Scheduling depends on availability, location and group size. Please contact us with specific requests.

Is CarveWright seeking independent dealers or distributors?

We are currently seeking parties interested in exploring independent distribution or representation. Please contact us at marketing@carvewright.com for more information.

Are carved samples available to show cut quality?

A carved sample can be purchased for $15, which is applicable toward the price of the machine if purchased. We have a standard carving that we send out and we do not carve special orders.