Sketchup CAM options for CNC Cabinetmaking

[mbswift]

I’m curious if anyone here is using SketchUp to design and fabricate custom cabinetry with a CNC router. I’d appreciate any feedback on CAM software options, such as Vectric Aspire, Fabber, CabWriter, or any other alternatives that might be worth exploring. Currently, I’m using a different modeling program with integrated parametric cabinet programming and CAM features, but I’m considering transitioning back to SketchUp, which I used before I purchased my CNC router. Looking forward to hearing your experiences!

[endlessfix]

I do not make cabinets, but I do export pathways from SketchUp for use on 2D cutting applications, CNC router, plasma cutting, waterjet etc. It can certainly be made to work. My workflow requires true curves in DXF format to export to CAM. I use a combination of native export DXF tools in 3D and an extension called GKware Simple DXF.

However, for general cabinet making there are a few extensions specifically designed around supporting that workflow start to finish…

Check out OpenCutList, CabinetSense, and CabMaker32 just to name a few.

OpenCutList - a Crowdfunded Extension

What is OpenCutList ? OpenCutList extension generates cut lists, estimates, cutting diagrams, labels, exploded views, SVG, DXF for woodworking or similar projects. By inspecting the components and material properties of a scene, OpenCutList automatically generates list of parts, a summary report, cutting diagrams, and labels based on material properties of the parts. Supported material types include Solid Wood, Sheet Goods, Dimensional Lumber, Veneers, Edge Bandings and Accessories. [Parts Li…

SketchUp for Cabinetmakers (CabinetSense extension)

Hi folks I’ve just uploaded to YouTube the first of my presentations from 3D Basecamp about SketchUp for cabinetmakers. It introduces what the CabinetSense extension can do to automate design and production drawings for bespoke sized cabinetry, including outputting cutting lists and sheet cutting diagrams, with all parts automatically labelled. It also shows my own drawing template and workflow to make the 3D model itself a central place for communication to my team. [SketchUp for Cab…

https://cabmaker32.com/products/

[mbswift]

Thanks for your response… all of these look pretty interesting!