As explained in this post, I’ve been experimenting with a process for converting a pixel-based image into G-code for machining. The resulting picture is known generally as a halftone print. Using this process, I was able to produce the stencil for the “painting” seen in the picture to the right.
Read on for a time-lapse video of this stencil being made as well as a few more photos of the process. Although generally the same as how I “pixel machined” wood, I’m now using a a piece of .005 Duralar left over from this stencil to create a halftone-based stencil. The video is pretty cool, as I placed a webcam on top of one of the router uprights and used this free program to generate everything.
One thing I would recommend when making a stencil like this is to tape down the edges. They can get caught on the router, especially near the middle. This happens at just after 0:20 in the time-lapse video, where I have to free the plastic and support it with my fingers. This is less than ideal from both a safety and time perspective. For more info, be sure to check out how I generated this stencil G-code pattern.
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