Rebecca Ruggles Artist Signature

New Materials MDF

My first MDF cuts on the ShopBot, new materials, new things to learn.

I wanted to explore some thicker materials to use in my next-layer scene diorama. With a thicker edge, I could carve an edge relief detail that would give the piece a more sculptural 3D look. I had some 1/2 inch MDF in the shop so I decided to give it a try. Here I’m cutting the clouds using a 3-flute down-cut endmill. Changing from 5mm Palboard to MDF the endmills, feed, speeds, and such all have to be refined and experimented with.