Pc-controlled routers provide precision chopping, carving, and engraving capabilities for plywood sheets, enabling intricate designs and environment friendly manufacturing. These automated methods translate digital designs into exact toolpaths, automating duties beforehand carried out manually. For example, furnishings producers can use these machines to create advanced joinery or ornamental components shortly and precisely.
Automated fabrication presents important benefits in woodworking with sheet supplies. It reduces materials waste, improves consistency throughout manufacturing runs, and facilitates advanced designs beforehand tough or unimaginable to realize by hand. Traditionally, expert craftspeople spent appreciable effort and time on intricate work. This expertise represents a major development, permitting for higher productiveness and design freedom whereas sustaining top quality.
The next sections discover particular purposes, together with furnishings making, signage manufacturing, and creative woodworking, alongside issues for machine choice, software program utilization, and materials optimization.
1. Chopping
Exact chopping constitutes a core operate of laptop numerical management (CNC) machining utilized to plywood. The power to execute intricate cuts repeatedly and precisely distinguishes automated machining from conventional strategies. This functionality unlocks design prospects and manufacturing efficiencies essential for numerous purposes.
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By way of-Chopping
By way of-cutting fully severs the plywood, creating separate items. This system is prime for producing components for furnishings, signage, or puzzles. Attaining clear, correct through-cuts minimizes materials waste and reduces ending necessities. Components corresponding to blade choice, feed charge, and depth of lower affect the ultimate high quality.
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Pocket Chopping
Pocket chopping removes materials inside an outlined boundary on the plywood floor, creating recesses or cavities. This system is crucial for inlay work, creating housings for {hardware}, or producing ornamental components. Exact management over depth and toolpath ensures correct pocket dimensions and clear edges.
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Bevel Chopping
Bevel chopping creates angled edges somewhat than perpendicular cuts. This functionality expands design prospects, enabling the creation of advanced joinery, ornamental chamfers, or angled parts for meeting. Correct angle management and constant edge high quality are essential for profitable bevel chopping.
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Kerf Compensation
Kerf compensation accounts for the fabric eliminated by the chopping instrument (the kerf). Software program incorporates this compensation into the toolpath, making certain the ultimate lower dimensions match the design specs exactly. Correct kerf compensation is essential for tight-fitting joints and correct half dimensions.
Understanding these chopping methods and their related parameters is crucial for leveraging the complete potential of CNC machining with plywood. Optimizing these processes permits for environment friendly manufacturing, minimizes materials waste, and expands design prospects, finally contributing to profitable challenge outcomes.
2. Engraving
Engraving represents a priceless functionality of CNC routers utilized to plywood. Not like chopping, which separates materials, engraving creates shallow, ornamental, or informative marks on the plywood floor. This performance expands the purposes of CNC machining, enabling personalised designs, detailed paintings, and exact markings.
The precision of CNC management permits for intricate engraving particulars, together with nice traces, advanced patterns, and ranging depths. This stage of management surpasses handbook engraving strategies in pace, consistency, and repeatability. Purposes vary from customised gifts and signage with logos or textual content to creative renderings and complicated ornamental components on furnishings. For example, a CNC router can engrave detailed topographical maps onto plywood, creating distinctive wall artwork or instructional instruments. The depth of the engraving will be managed to create tactile textures, including one other dimension to the design.
Efficient engraving on plywood requires cautious consideration of a number of components. Bit choice influences the element and magnificence of the engraving. V-bits create sharp, outlined traces, whereas ball-end bits produce smoother, rounded grooves. The selection of plywood kind additionally impacts the ultimate outcome. Baltic Birch plywood, with its clean, uniform layers, is usually most popular for engraving as a result of its clear end. Software program settings management the depth and pace of the engraving, permitting for exact management over the ultimate look. Understanding these components permits for the creation of high-quality engravings that improve the aesthetic and purposeful worth of plywood tasks.
3. Routing
Routing constitutes a elementary course of in CNC machining of plywood, encompassing a wider vary of fabric elimination operations past easy chopping and engraving. It includes the managed motion of a rotating chopping instrument alongside a predetermined path to form, carve, and hole out areas inside the plywood sheet. This functionality permits for the creation of advanced profiles, intricate joinery, and three-dimensional varieties. The connection between routing and CNC machining is synergistic; the precision and automation of CNC expertise amplify the flexibility and effectivity of routing operations.
Contemplate the fabrication of a chair. Whereas chopping operations separate particular person parts from the plywood sheet, routing permits the creation of curved seat backs, ornamental edges, and exact joinery slots. In architectural modeling, routing permits for the creation of intricate scale fashions with detailed facades and landscaping options. The power to manage the depth and course of the routing instrument permits variations in texture and kind, including depth and complexity to the ultimate product. Routing operations carried out on a CNC machine provide important benefits over handbook routing, together with elevated pace, improved accuracy, and constant repeatability. This precision minimizes errors, reduces materials waste, and permits for advanced designs that might be difficult or unimaginable to realize by hand.
Efficient routing requires cautious consideration of instrument choice, feed charges, and chopping depths. Totally different router bits produce distinct profiles and finishes. A straight bit creates clear, vertical cuts, whereas a ball-nose bit produces clean, rounded grooves. The feed charge, or the pace at which the router bit strikes by means of the fabric, influences the standard of the lower and the lifespan of the bit. The chopping depth determines the quantity of fabric eliminated, impacting the ultimate form and structural integrity of the piece. Understanding these parameters is essential for attaining optimum outcomes and maximizing the potential of CNC routing with plywood.
4. Plywood Sorts
Plywood choice considerably influences the result of CNC machining processes. Totally different plywood sorts exhibit various properties that have an effect on machinability, together with density, layer composition, glue kind, and floor end. Selecting the suitable plywood for a selected utility ensures optimum outcomes and avoids potential problems throughout machining.
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Baltic Birch Plywood
Identified for its clean floor, constant layers, and void-free core, Baltic Birch plywood is usually most popular for intricate CNC tasks. Its uniform density permits for clear cuts, exact engraving, and detailed routing. This makes it best for purposes requiring nice element, corresponding to furnishings making, scrollwork, and laser engraving. Nevertheless, its greater value in comparison with different plywood sorts could also be a limiting issue for some tasks.
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Moisture-Resistant (MR) Plywood
MR plywood is handled with a moisture-resistant adhesive, making it appropriate for exterior purposes or tasks uncovered to humidity. Whereas appropriate for common CNC chopping and shaping, its rougher floor in comparison with Baltic Birch could restrict its suitability for nice element work. MR plywood is usually used for out of doors signage, development tasks, and marine purposes.
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Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF)
Though technically not plywood, MDF is usually thought of alongside it for CNC purposes. Its clean, uniform floor and constant density make it best for intricate carving and routing. Nevertheless, MDF is extra inclined to moisture harm than MR plywood and generates finer mud particles throughout machining, requiring applicable mud assortment measures.
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Specialty Plywoods
Specialty plywoods, corresponding to versatile plywood, marine-grade plywood, and fire-retardant plywood, cater to particular purposes. Versatile plywood permits for curved designs, whereas marine-grade plywood presents superior resistance to moisture and decay. Fireplace-retardant plywood enhances security in particular environments. Choosing the proper specialty plywood depends upon the challenge necessities and environmental issues.
Understanding the properties of various plywood sorts and their suitability for numerous CNC machining processes is crucial for challenge success. Matching the plywood kind to the challenge necessities ensures environment friendly machining, minimizes materials waste, and optimizes the standard of the ultimate product. Components such because the required stage of element, the meant utility atmosphere, and finances constraints ought to all affect the selection of plywood.
5. Software program Compatibility
Software program compatibility performs a vital function within the efficient operation of a CNC machine for plywood. The software program acts because the bridge between the digital design and the bodily execution of the machining course of. It interprets the design file, usually created in CAD/CAM software program, right into a set of directions that the CNC machine can perceive and execute. This contains producing toolpaths, defining chopping parameters, and controlling machine actions. With out appropriate software program, the CNC machine can not interpret the design, rendering your entire course of ineffective. Compatibility points can manifest as incorrect toolpaths, inaccurate cuts, and even machine errors, resulting in wasted materials, misplaced time, and probably broken gear. For example, a design created in a selected CAD software program won’t be immediately appropriate with the CNC machine’s management software program, requiring file conversion or particular export settings. Selecting appropriate software program from the outset streamlines the workflow, reduces the chance of errors, and ensures environment friendly challenge execution.
A number of components contribute to software program compatibility. The file format of the design is paramount. Frequent codecs like DXF, SVG, and G-code are broadly supported by CNC machines, however compatibility can nonetheless fluctuate relying on the precise machine and software program mixture. The software program’s means to generate applicable G-code, the language understood by most CNC machines, is crucial. The post-processor inside the CAM software program tailors the G-code output to the precise necessities of the CNC machine, making certain right interpretation of toolpaths and chopping parameters. Moreover, the software program’s person interface and options contribute to its general effectiveness. An intuitive interface simplifies the design and toolpath era course of, whereas superior options like simulation and toolpath optimization improve effectivity and precision. For instance, a furnishings designer utilizing specialised CAD/CAM software program for woodworking can generate optimized toolpaths for advanced joinery particulars, making certain correct and environment friendly machining on the CNC router.
Making certain software program compatibility requires cautious consideration in the course of the machine and software program choice course of. Verifying compatibility between the chosen CAD/CAM software program and the CNC machine’s management system is crucial. Consulting the machine producer’s specs and suggestions or conducting take a look at runs with pattern recordsdata can verify compatibility and keep away from potential points. Understanding the software program’s capabilities and limitations additionally contributes to profitable challenge execution. Choosing software program with the mandatory options for the meant purposes, whether or not it is 2D chopping, 3D carving, or advanced toolpath era, ensures the software program can deal with the challenge’s calls for. Finally, software program compatibility varieties a crucial hyperlink within the chain of CNC machining operations for plywood. Addressing this facet proactively ensures environment friendly workflows, minimizes errors, and unlocks the complete potential of the CNC machine for exact and complicated woodworking tasks.
6. Tooling Choice
Tooling choice immediately impacts the standard, effectivity, and feasibility of CNC machining tasks involving plywood. The chosen chopping instrument, or bit, dictates the kind of operation achievable, the achievable precision, and the general end. An improper bit can result in splintering, burning, inaccurate cuts, and even machine harm. Conversely, the proper bit maximizes materials elimination charges, extends instrument life, and ensures the specified final result. The interaction between tooling and materials properties is essential. For instance, utilizing a down-cut spiral bit minimizes splintering on the highest face of plywood, whereas an up-cut spiral bit is preferable when chopping by means of a number of layers to forestall tear-out on the underside face. The bit’s diameter influences the element achievable in intricate designs, with smaller diameter bits enabling finer particulars however requiring slower feed charges and a number of passes. The bit’s chopping geometry, together with the variety of flutes and the chopping angle, additional impacts its efficiency and suitability for particular duties.
Contemplate routing an ornamental edge on a plywood panel. A Roman ogee bit creates a traditional, ornate profile, whereas a chamfer bit produces a easy bevel. For intricate inlay work, a v-groove bit permits for exact, sharp grooves to accommodate inlay supplies. The selection of bit immediately influences the ultimate aesthetic and performance of the completed piece. Moreover, the fabric properties of the plywood itself affect tooling decisions. For example, softer plywoods require sharper bits with greater chopping angles to forestall tearing, whereas denser plywoods can tolerate extra aggressive chopping instruments. The tooling choice course of typically includes a stability between attaining the specified aesthetic, maximizing machining effectivity, and contemplating the precise traits of the plywood getting used.
Efficient tooling choice requires understanding the varied bit sorts, their meant purposes, and their compatibility with the chosen plywood. Consulting tooling catalogs, producer suggestions, and on-line sources offers priceless insights into bit choice and optimum chopping parameters. Experimentation with totally different bits and parameters on scrap materials permits for fine-tuning and ensures predictable outcomes on the ultimate workpiece. Finally, cautious tooling choice is a crucial consider profitable CNC machining of plywood, influencing the ultimate high quality, effectivity, and general success of the challenge.
7. Design Complexity
Design complexity considerably influences the feasibility and execution of tasks using CNC machines for plywood. Intricate designs, whereas achievable with CNC expertise, require cautious consideration of machine capabilities, tooling, software program, and materials properties. The extent of design complexity impacts machining time, value, and the potential for errors. An intensive understanding of the connection between design complexity and CNC machining parameters is essential for profitable challenge outcomes.
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Intricacy of Element
Extremely detailed designs, that includes nice traces, sharp corners, and complicated patterns, demand exact machine management and specialised tooling. Smaller diameter bits are crucial for nice particulars, however they require slower feed charges and a number of passes, rising machining time. For instance, creating an in depth reduction carving on plywood necessitates a smaller bit and slower speeds in comparison with chopping easier shapes. This elevated machining time immediately impacts challenge value and requires cautious planning.
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Depth of Reduce and 3D Kinds
Designs involving deep cuts or advanced 3D varieties current challenges when it comes to instrument choice, toolpath era, and materials elimination charges. Deep cuts could require a number of passes or specialised tooling to forestall instrument breakage or burning. Creating 3D varieties includes advanced toolpath methods and cautious consideration of fabric thickness and structural integrity. For example, carving a deep bowl from plywood necessitates a strong machine, applicable tooling, and cautious toolpath planning to make sure environment friendly materials elimination and forestall harm to the workpiece.
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Variety of Layers and Device Modifications
Designs incorporating a number of layers or requiring frequent instrument modifications improve complexity and manufacturing time. Every layer requires exact alignment and probably totally different machining parameters. Device modifications introduce downtime and improve the potential for errors. A challenge involving layered plywood with totally different cutouts and engravings necessitates cautious planning of toolpaths and gear modifications to reduce manufacturing time and preserve accuracy. Automating instrument modifications can mitigate a few of these challenges however requires appropriate {hardware} and software program.
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Software program Capabilities and Toolpath Optimization
Complicated designs necessitate subtle software program able to producing environment friendly toolpaths and managing intricate machining operations. Toolpath optimization algorithms decrease chopping time and scale back instrument put on, enhancing general effectivity. For example, software program that may generate clean, steady toolpaths for advanced curves reduces machining time and produces a cleaner end in comparison with software program that generates segmented toolpaths. Investing in succesful software program is crucial for managing the complexities of intricate designs.
Managing design complexity in CNC machining of plywood requires a holistic strategy, contemplating the interaction between design intent, machine capabilities, tooling, software program, and materials properties. Balancing design aspirations with sensible issues ensures environment friendly manufacturing, minimizes errors, and finally results in profitable challenge outcomes. An intensive understanding of those components empowers designers and makers to leverage the complete potential of CNC expertise whereas managing the complexities of intricate designs successfully.
8. Challenge Feasibility
Challenge feasibility, inside the context of CNC machining of plywood, represents the crucial evaluation of whether or not a challenge will be efficiently executed given the constraints of accessible sources, technical capabilities, and finances. It bridges the hole between design idea and sensible realization, serving as a gatekeeper in opposition to probably expensive and time-consuming endeavors which might be unlikely to succeed. Feasibility evaluation necessitates cautious consideration of a number of interconnected components, every influencing the general viability of a challenge. Materials dimensions, design complexity, required tolerances, out there tooling, and machine capability all play essential roles. For example, a challenge requiring extraordinarily tight tolerances would possibly exceed the capabilities of a normal CNC router, necessitating a extra exact machine or a redesign. Equally, a design incorporating intricate 3D carvings may be possible with a 5-axis CNC machine however impractical or unimaginable with a 3-axis machine. Ignoring challenge feasibility can result in wasted materials, missed deadlines, and finally, challenge failure.
A number of sensible examples spotlight the significance of feasibility evaluation. Contemplate a furnishings maker designing a chair with advanced curved parts. Whereas the design may be aesthetically pleasing, the feasibility evaluation should think about whether or not the out there CNC machine possesses the mandatory capabilities and tooling to realize the specified curves and tolerances. If the machine lacks the required precision or the suitable bits are unavailable, the challenge would possibly require redesign or different manufacturing strategies. Equally, an indication maker tasked with producing a big batch of intricately engraved indicators should consider the manufacturing capability of the CNC machine, the supply of appropriate plywood, and the general challenge timeline. Overlooking these components may result in manufacturing delays and elevated prices. In each circumstances, a radical feasibility evaluation previous to commencing manufacturing safeguards in opposition to potential issues and will increase the probability of challenge success. This evaluation typically includes prototyping, take a look at cuts, and cautious calculations of fabric necessities and machining time.
An intensive understanding of challenge feasibility optimizes useful resource allocation, mitigates potential dangers, and finally contributes to profitable outcomes in CNC machining of plywood. It necessitates a practical evaluation of design complexity, materials properties, machine capabilities, and out there sources. This proactive strategy ensures tasks align with sensible constraints, maximizing the effectivity and effectiveness of CNC expertise whereas minimizing the probability of expensive errors or challenge failures. By incorporating feasibility evaluation as an integral a part of the design and manufacturing course of, makers and designers can confidently undertake formidable tasks whereas sustaining a practical perspective on the challenges and alternatives introduced by CNC machining of plywood.
Incessantly Requested Questions
This part addresses widespread inquiries relating to the utilization of CNC machines for plywood tasks, providing concise and informative responses to facilitate knowledgeable decision-making and profitable challenge execution.
Query 1: What varieties of plywood are finest fitted to CNC machining?
Baltic Birch plywood, identified for its clean floor and constant layers, is usually most popular for detailed work. Moisture-resistant (MR) plywood is appropriate for exterior purposes, whereas Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF) presents a clean floor however requires cautious mud administration. Specialty plywoods cater to particular wants, corresponding to flexibility or fireplace resistance.
Query 2: What software program is required to function a CNC machine with plywood?
CAD/CAM software program is crucial for creating designs and producing toolpaths. Compatibility between the CAD/CAM software program and the CNC machine’s management system is essential. Frequent file codecs embrace DXF, SVG, and G-code. Publish-processors inside the CAM software program tailor the G-code for the precise machine.
Query 3: How does one select the proper tooling for CNC machining plywood?
Tooling choice depends upon the specified operation and the kind of plywood. Up-cut spiral bits forestall tear-out on the underside face, whereas down-cut spiral bits decrease splintering on the highest face. V-bits create sharp grooves, and ball-nose bits produce rounded edges. Bit diameter influences element and chopping pace.
Query 4: What are the important thing issues for challenge feasibility evaluation?
Feasibility depends upon components corresponding to design complexity, materials dimensions, required tolerances, out there tooling, and machine capability. Cautious evaluation ensures the challenge aligns with out there sources and technical capabilities. Prototyping and take a look at cuts assist validate feasibility.
Query 5: What security precautions are important when working a CNC machine with plywood?
Applicable private protecting gear (PPE), together with eye safety, listening to safety, and mud masks, is crucial. Making certain correct machine setup, together with safe workpiece clamping and gear set up, is essential. Common machine upkeep and adherence to producer security pointers decrease dangers.
Query 6: What upkeep procedures are really helpful for a CNC machine used with plywood?
Common cleansing of the machine, together with mud elimination and lubrication of shifting components, extends its lifespan. Periodic inspection of tooling for put on and tear ensures optimum efficiency and prevents harm. Following producer suggestions for upkeep schedules and procedures maintains machine reliability.
Cautious consideration of those often requested questions facilitates knowledgeable decision-making, enhances challenge planning, and contributes to protected and environment friendly CNC machining of plywood.
The next part explores superior methods and optimization methods for maximizing the potential of CNC machining with plywood.
Ideas for CNC Machining Plywood
Optimizing CNC machining processes for plywood requires consideration to element and a radical understanding of fabric properties, tooling, and machine parameters. The next suggestions provide sensible steering for attaining high-quality outcomes and maximizing effectivity.
Tip 1: Safe Workpiece Firmly
Correctly securing the plywood sheet to the machine mattress is essential for stopping motion and vibration throughout machining. Insufficient clamping can result in inaccurate cuts, broken workpieces, and potential security hazards. Using applicable clamping methods, corresponding to vacuum hold-downs, mechanical clamps, or double-sided tape, ensures constant outcomes and protected operation. For example, when chopping intricate shapes, a vacuum hold-down system offers uniform stress throughout your entire sheet, minimizing vibration and maximizing accuracy.
Tip 2: Choose Applicable Tooling
Selecting the proper bit for the precise operation and plywood kind is crucial. Contemplate the specified lower kind, depth of lower, and the fabric’s density. Utilizing sharp, high-quality bits minimizes tear-out, splintering, and burning. For instance, a down-cut spiral bit minimizes splintering on the highest face, whereas an up-cut spiral bit is preferable for through-cuts to forestall tear-out on the underside face.
Tip 3: Optimize Chopping Parameters
Optimizing feed charge, spindle pace, and depth of lower considerably impacts machining effectivity and high quality. Extreme feed charges can result in burning and gear breakage, whereas inadequate feed charges may cause extreme warmth buildup and lowered instrument life. Testing chopping parameters on scrap materials permits for fine-tuning earlier than machining the ultimate workpiece. For example, when working with thicker plywood, a slower feed charge and a number of shallower passes produce cleaner cuts and scale back stress on the tooling.
Tip 4: Handle Mud Successfully
CNC machining plywood generates important mud, which may hinder visibility, create well being hazards, and intrude with machine operation. Implementing efficient mud assortment methods, corresponding to mud footwear or store vacuums, improves visibility, protects the operator’s well being, and maintains machine cleanliness. Furthermore, correct mud administration extends the lifetime of the machine by stopping mud buildup in crucial parts.
Tip 5: Contemplate Materials Grain Course
Chopping in opposition to the grain of the plywood may cause splintering and tear-out. Orienting the workpiece to align the chopping course with the grain minimizes these points and produces cleaner cuts. When the design necessitates chopping in opposition to the grain, utilizing a backing board or making use of masking tape to the lower line can scale back splintering.
Tip 6: Usually Examine Tooling
Inspecting tooling commonly for put on, harm, or dullness prevents surprising points throughout machining. Boring bits may cause burning, tear-out, and elevated chopping forces. Changing boring or broken bits promptly ensures constant outcomes and prevents expensive errors.
Tip 7: Conduct Check Cuts
Performing take a look at cuts on scrap materials permits for verification of design accuracy, tooling choice, and chopping parameters earlier than machining the ultimate workpiece. This proactive strategy minimizes materials waste and identifies potential points early within the course of, permitting for changes and optimizations with out jeopardizing the ultimate product. Check cuts additionally present a possibility to guage the effectiveness of clamping methods and mud administration methods.
Adhering to those suggestions contributes to environment friendly and profitable CNC machining of plywood, maximizing materials utilization, minimizing errors, and attaining high-quality outcomes. These practices improve productiveness, scale back waste, and contribute to a safer working atmosphere.
The concluding part summarizes key takeaways and presents insights into future tendencies in CNC machining with plywood.
Conclusion
Pc Numerical Management (CNC) machining presents transformative potential for plywood fabrication. Precision chopping, intricate engraving, and complicated routing operations, as soon as time-consuming and demanding handbook duties, are actually achievable with pace, accuracy, and repeatability. Understanding materials properties, tooling choice, software program compatibility, and design complexity empowers efficient utilization of this expertise. Issues relating to challenge feasibility, chopping parameters, and mud administration contribute to profitable challenge outcomes. Adherence to finest practices, together with safe workpiece clamping, optimized toolpaths, and common instrument inspection, maximizes effectivity and ensures high-quality outcomes.
As expertise advances, additional exploration of optimized toolpaths, superior supplies, and built-in software program options will proceed to increase the capabilities of CNC machining with plywood. This evolution guarantees enhanced effectivity, expanded design prospects, and elevated accessibility for each professionals and hobbyists. Continued exploration and refinement of methods will additional solidify the function of CNC machining as a cornerstone of recent woodworking and fabrication.
