ArtCAM Pro 9.1 is a specialized CAD/CAM software used primarily for artistic 3D modeling and CNC machining, such as wood engraving and relief carving. Although Autodesk discontinued ArtCAM in 2018, the legacy version 9.1 remains popular for its straightforward 2D-to-3D workflow. 1. Getting Started: Setting Up Your Model Before designing, you must define your workspace. Create New Model: Go to File > New > Model . Define Dimensions: Enter the size of your physical material (width and height) and set the resolution. High resolution is better for detailed reliefs but requires more processing power. Origin Point: Select where your CNC machine's "zero" will be (usually the center or the bottom-left corner). 2. 2D Vector Design All 3D shapes in ArtCAM begin as 2D vectors. Drawing Tools: Use the vector toolbar to draw lines, arcs, and closed shapes. Importing Vectors: You can import existing files like .dxf or .eps for complex logos or patterns. Editing: Use the Node Editing tool to refine shapes by dragging points or changing curve types. 3. Generating 3D Reliefs with Shape Editor The Shape Editor is the core tool for turning 2D vectors into 3D geometry. Machining a 3d relief model in ArtCAM Pro (part 1)
Mastering ArtCAM Pro 9.1: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Tutorial for Beginners and Hobbyists ArtCAM Pro 9.1 remains a gold standard in the world of CNC routing and 3D carving, even years after its initial release. While Autodesk has since discontinued the standalone ArtCAM product line, version 9.1 is still widely used by woodworkers, engravers, jewelers, and sign makers due to its stability, intuitive interface, and powerful relief modeling capabilities. If you have just acquired a CNC router or a carving machine, learning ArtCAM Pro 9.1 is a career-defining skill. This tutorial will walk you through the entire workflow—from installing the software and setting up your workspace to generating complex 3D reliefs and outputting toolpaths.
Part 1: Getting Started – The ArtCAM 9.1 Interface Before we carve anything, we need to understand the layout. When you launch ArtCAM Pro 9.1, you are greeted with the "Model Tree" on the left and the 2D/3D Viewport on the right. Key Panels to Know:
The Toolbars (Top): These contain your drawing tools (Line, Arc, Circle, Text) and relief tools (Sweep, Two-Rail Sweep, Merge). The Layer Bar (Left): ArtCAD is vector-heavy. Think of vectors as your "cut lines." You can organize vectors into different colors and layers. The Relief Panel: This is where the magic happens. It controls the height, angle, and texture of your 3D models. The Toolpath Tab: Located at the bottom left. This is where you convert your vectors into machine code (G-code). artcam pro 9.1 tutorial
Pro Tip for 9.1: Ensure your "Snapping" options (Endpoint, Center, Intersection) are enabled. Right-click the snap icon in the bottom toolbar to activate them.
Part 2: Vector Creation – The Blueprint of Your Carving Every 3D model in ArtCAD starts as a 2D vector. Unlike pixel-based software, ArtCAM uses vectors to define the boundaries of your carvings. Tutorial Exercise: Creating a Sign Board Base
Create a Rectangle: Click the Rectangle tool. Click once to set the first corner, drag, and click again. Type in 10" for Width and 6" for Height. Center It: Go to Edit > Transform > Center in Workplane . This centers your material. Add Text: Click the Text tool (the "A" icon). Type "WOODSHOP" and choose a bold font (like Arial Black). Set the text height to 1.5 inches . Convert Text to Vectors: ArtCAM treats text as a special object. Right-click the text and select "Convert Text to Vectors." Now your letters are individual editable lines. ArtCAM Pro 9
Part 3: The 2D Toolpaths (V-Carving & Profiling) Before moving to 3D, let's cut the text out. This is a V-Carving toolpath. Step-by-Step V-Carve:
Select your "WOODSHOP" vectors. Go to the Toolpaths Tab (bottom left). Click "V-Bit Carving" (usually the second icon). Tool Selection: Click "Select." Choose a 90-degree V-bit (e.g., 0.5" diameter). Settings:
Maximum Depth: 0.2 inches (for a 3/4" board). Flat Depth: Leave at 0 (this allows the V-bit to go deeper in wide areas). Allowance: 0.0 . Getting Started: Setting Up Your Model Before designing,
Click "Calculate" . Preview: Click the "Simulate" icon (the green play button). You will see the CNC route inside the letters.
Profile Toolpath (Cutting Out the Sign)