Guide · CNC cutting

How to prepare a DXF for CNC cutting

A clean file is the quickest route to a quote and a part that comes off the machine right first time. Here's what we look for when you send a drawing for our 10×5 CNC router.

1. Draw at full size, in millimetres

Draw everything at 1:1 scale in millimetres. A part that should be 600 mm wide must measure 600 in the file.

If you work in inches, tell us, so nothing gets scaled by mistake.

2. Use closed shapes

Every outline we cut around needs to be a closed shape: a single joined polyline or a closed spline, with no gaps between lines.

• Join separate lines into one polyline (in most CAD software: Join or PEDIT).
• Delete duplicate and overlapping lines. Two lines on top of each other look like one, but the machine cuts both.
• Remove tiny stray fragments and construction lines.

3. Turn text into outlines

Fonts don't travel between computers. Convert all lettering to outlines or curves before exporting, so it cuts exactly as you designed it.

4. Put each operation on its own layer

If a part has more than one kind of cut, separate them onto layers and name them clearly, for example:

• CUT-THROUGH for outlines cut right through the board
• POCKET-6MM for areas machined to a depth
• DRILL-8MM for holes, marked as points or circles
• ENGRAVE for lines cut shallowly into the surface

Put the depth in the layer name, or list depths in your email.

5. Remember the cutter is round

A router cutter is round, so inside corners always have a small radius, equal to the radius of the cutter. If a corner must be sharp, for example where a square part slots in, tell us and we can add a relief cut, often called a dog-bone.

Very fine details and narrow slots are limited by the smallest cutter that suits your material. If you're unsure, send the file and we'll advise.

6. Export the right format

DXF is best. Save as an older version such as R12 or 2000 if your software offers it, as it opens reliably.

We also accept DWG, SVG, AI and PDF vector files. A photo or scan isn't a vector file, but a dimensioned sketch is fine; we can draw it up for you.

7. Tell us the essentials

• Material and thickness, e.g. 18 mm MDF
• Quantity of each part
• Which side is the good face, if it matters
• Grain direction on woodgrain boards
• When you need it, and whether you'll collect or want delivery

Sheet size

Our CNC bed takes full 3050 × 1525 mm (10×5) sheets up to 100 mm thick, and we nest parts across the sheet to make the most of each board.