The DMC2 Mini CNC Mill kit comes as a box of parts directly from China. It is up to the user to build and calibrate the machine to achieve their precision requirements. It requires industry knowledge and precision tools to complete a machine that is capable of cutting tight tolerances. 

The build process took me three weeks of dedicated after hours and weekends to complete the frame build and to square all of the axes. The last step of the process was crucial to getting accurate cuts on the machine. Tramming the spindle to cut parallel to the bed and perpendicular to the axes was a tedious process. Once that was all set and everything was tightened down it was time to learn how to program CAM toolpaths.

Fusion 360 was my choice of software for its well documented tutorials and large community support. I spent time learning the basics and more advanced programming tips and tricks by watching tutorials and practicing on my own parts. My goal was to be able to make my own parts that I had previously outsourced to a Chinese manufacturer. 

After much trial & error and consistent practice, I got more comfortable with programming parts with efficient cutting toolpaths and correct feeds & speeds. Since then I have been able to machine repeatable, in-spec parts made out of tough materials like 304 Stainless Steel.

Now that I have a good fundamental understanding of CNC machining I am excited to add this skill to my toolbox of knowledge and make more complex parts!