Artcam - Pro 9.1 Tutorial
Getting Started with ArtCAM Pro 9.1: A Beginner's Guide
ArtCAM Pro 9.1 is a classic software solution used for CNC machining and engraving. It bridges the gap between 2D design and 3D relief modeling. While it is an older version, it remains popular for its stability and straightforward workflow.
This tutorial covers the core steps to create a simple relief project. artcam pro 9.1 tutorial
Key Toolpath Strategies:
Step 3: Add Text
- Click the Text Tool (T icon).
- Type: “WOODWORKS”
- Choose a bold font (e.g., Arial Bold).
- Set height: 30 mm, spacing: 5 mm.
- Place text in the center. Convert text to vectors:
Right-click > Convert Text to Vectors.
12. Materials and tooling recommendations
- Softwoods: 1/4" or 1/8" upcut endmills for pocketing, 60° V-bits for detail.
- Hardwood: slower feed, smaller stepover, sharper tools; consider downcut bits for clean tops.
- Plastics: take light cuts, use single-flute or polished cutters to avoid melting.
- Aluminum: use proper carbide endmills, flood coolant if possible, very conservative DOC and chipload.
- MDF: commonly used for prototypes; use carbide cutters and clear dust often.
1. Overview and system requirements
- ArtCAM Pro 9.1 is a legacy desktop CAM package for relief modelling, engraving, and decorative CNC machining. Typical applications: signmaking, artistic carving, moulds, jewellery, inlay and decorative panels.
- Reasonable system spec (minimum practical):
- 64-bit Windows 7/8/10 (use latest compatible OS per your hardware)
- 4–8 GB RAM (8+ GB recommended for large reliefs)
- Multi-core CPU, dedicated GPU helps viewport performance
- 2–10 GB free disk space depending on project assets
- Recommended peripherals: mouse with scroll wheel, graphics tablet for sculpting (optional).
Tutorial: Turning Text into 3D
- Ensure your "WELCOME" text vectors are selected (yellow dashed lines).
- In the Assistant toolbar, click "Create Shape" (sometimes labeled "Shape Editor").
- A dialog box appears. Choose the shape profile:
- Flat: Creates a flat-topped raised letter.
- Round: Creates a domed letter.
- Angle: Creates a pyramid/prismatic letter.
- Select Round. Set the Start Height to 0mm and Scale (height) to 5mm.
- Under Operation, select Add.
- Click Apply. You will see the text become 3D in the right-hand window.
- Click Close to finish the operation.
Part 3: The 2D Toolpaths (V-Carving & Profiling)
Before moving to 3D, let's cut the text out. This is a V-Carving toolpath. Getting Started with ArtCAM Pro 9
Key Features:
- Vector Creation: Tools for drawing lines, circles, rectangles, polygons, and stars.
- Text Tools: A powerful text editor that supports TrueType fonts. You can type text and immediately manipulate it as vectors.
- Import Support: You can import
.dxf, .dwg, .ai (Illustrator), and image files (.bmp, .jpg).
- Vector Editing: Node editing allows you to click and drag points on a line to reshape curves.
