Greetings to all, Due to the initial expense of entering the
technological arena of computerized model making, it is indeed
an overwhelming factor as to why many craftsmen and designers shy
away from possibly the greatest tool they will ever invest in.
The whole dilemma of non participation in this technology by
jewelers is a multi part issue. The fact that it has something to
do with a computer and oh my god a machine, is as scary as hell
to many people, however, if you are reading this, then need I
say more on that part. The fact that you are reading this, shows
that we are directly, or indirectly, embracing the next step
whether we relies it or not. The main fear and it is fully
justified, is the learning curve, further complicated by in most
cases, monthly payments that have to be met whilst still being a
novice battling with the technology, and also with the thoughts
of “I need this like a hole in the head.” The psychological
factor of “oh man what if I can’t do this”, is truly a
realistic obstacle for many people to comfortably shell out those
hard earned dollars on a potential dust collector. The real
danger is taking on too much too soon.
Here is what I would recommend:-
-
For logos, pins, name plates, engraving etc., you really do
not need anything high end. The key is to enter at a price that
will give you what you need, and allow you to progress down the
learning curve at your own pace. The secret is not to try and
complete 100% of a job in one shot at the beginning using cad
cam. Instead, look to do as much as you can comfortably and
finish it off the way you normally would. If at the beginning the
tool only did 25% of the total job and you were timely and
profitable then great. As you progress, practice makes perfect,
therefore the more you use it the quicker you will become and
the sooner you will be doing more complex pieces. Keep it Simple
in the beginning. Don’t revolve the machine around your jobs,
revolve your jobs around the machine. There is a great package
complete for $2,600 that is ideal for a cost effective
introduction to cad cam with a lot of power that will not break
the bank. -
This way, although a little different in the approach is
great too. We offer a software package that will allow an
individual to design on their computer 3D parasolid models and in
turn export us the file via E-Mail for machining. This program is
the ultimate tool and we can prove it. All of the machining will
be done on our Sanders Machine. (What you Draw is what you get)
Here is the great part, you can enter this technological arena
for just the price of the software. This allows you to get up to
speed in your own time and have access to the necessary hardware
to machine the pieces. When you are ready for the next step, then
we can put you into your own Sanders if you wish. If you prefer,
the same program will produce from the same model, reverse
cavities for machining metal molds or even direct part machining
on a cnc mill. In a nutshell, we provide a vehicle for
individuals to enter this technology in a smart and cost
effective manner. We would love for you to buy a Sanders or a
mill from us, but lets do this slowly but surely. Work with the
software and then buy the appropriate machine for you when you
are ready and not before. Going this route allows you the power
without the cost at the beginning.
That’s all Folks…Regards.
Neil George