2024 Halloween LED Pumpkin Box Project

We decided to use Vectric Vcarve to design the pumpkin box model. Using Vcarve’s intuitive tools meant that modelling this project was a breeze!  To make your life even easier, we’ve got the DXF file ready to roll. Grab it below for free!

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With our model ready, it was time to use Vectric Vcarve’s CAM operations to generate a full toolpath. If you’d like to learn how to use Vectric for CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing), we have a fantastic manual found here. Oh yeah, did I mention you can also get a free End Mill Library for Fusion360, Carveco, or Vectric? Download it here.

Clamping We used the incredibly versatile T-track and the super strong T-track clamps, to firmly secure our wood onto the spoiler board. Furthermore, These tools make holding down the material significantly easier while ensuring precision and stability throughout the machining process.

Collet & End Mill Installation Before cutting, we need a cutting tool! To install your end mill, simply slide the End Mill into the appropriate Collet. Then, tighten the Collet & End Mill onto the spindle.

Probing To set the start position of the program, we first position the XYZ touch probe snugly on the nearest corner of our material, then attach the alligator clip to a solid ground point such as the end mill or spindle.Within your favourite GCODE sender, we initiate the probing process, which quickly sets the precise X, Y, and Z start positions. This step ensures that our CNC program begins with pinpoint accuracy, laying the foundation for flawless execution. To read more about probing, check out your controller manual on https://makerhardware.net/

Extraction As our CNC machine works, it inevitably generates swarf – those wood chips that can wreak havoc on your projects and even wear down our end mills.To keep our creations pristine and our tools in top shape, we simply opted for our trusty shop vacuum. It’s a straightforward yet effective method to easily remove any swarf in its path, ensuring a clean and smooth cutting process.Now, onto the fun part – the execution phase! With all the setup completed and our program loaded onto the controller, it’s time to unleash the OutBack CNC.

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Production After starting the GCODE, we carefully watched the blank piece of pine turn into a terrifying Pumpkin Box. Let’s not forget to capture these moments! Don’t hesitate to grab your camera and snap some awesome shots for Instagram. Remember to tag us with #MakerStore, so we can see what you’ve made!

We decided that the pumpkin box alone was scary but not quite terrifying. As such, we thought some spooky orange flickering lights would strike fear in the hearts of those who dare to look. To do so, we opted for a simple ESP32 circuit featuring the Maker Store ESP32 Breakout Board. Combined with an ARGB (Addressable Red Blue Green) LED Strip, power supply, and a handful of connectors, we were ready to hook it up!