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.
New Materials MDF
![My first MDF cuts on the ShopBot, new materials, new things to learn.](https://rebeccaruggles.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/ShobBot-Tests-with-half-inch-MDF-by-Rebecca-Ruggles.jpg)