I want to make a pretty simple bit. On the one side (bottom), it has a 7mm deep pocket that will sit over an existing base. The bottom run will also cut out the contour of the piece. Then I need to flip it over so that, on the other side (top), I can cut a couple of slots that will hold vertical bits that I will cut, afterwards. My question is… Is there a specific technique that will allow me to easily and accurately position the piece for the cutting the slots in the top?
Your question has nothing really to do with Snapmaker specifically; you’d have exactly the same issue with a manual mill and operations on both sides.
The very short answer: 1) pick datum references 2) build a jig. Which datum references you pick to locate your part will determine how you build the jig. Tip: You may be able to route a single-sided jig, depending on your part geometry.
I appreciate that my issue isn’t SnapMaker specific. Are you suggesting, with that comment, that I should have used a different forum? Maybe getting started?
I am working on a jig, now. The complication is that the original stock isn’t square and the first pass cuts the piece out, so the second pass is on a different size stock. I was just looking for techniques and advice, as a newcomer to the hobby.
No, not exactly. If you want to use another forum, there are several hobbyist machining ones (both manual and CNC) where there are plenty of experienced people around to help. There aren’t many on this forum, but there are a few.
Datum references need not be on the edges; they can be on the interior. A pair of holes can be held to position by a pair of dowel pins. A third hole might hold a screw into the jig body for clamping.
This is definitely the right place to ask.
There are other places that are better for learning and have more info (or at least already have the info laid out) and as @brent113 did, we’ll sometimes send you there.
Or to other discussions on this forum as I did. But there really isn’t any reason that this forum can’t and shouldn’t be the place to start and ask.
Sometimes you need to not completely cut out a part. You’ll need to leave tabs that you can out by hand (or on bandsaw, tablesaw, with dremel tool etc.)
If your stock isn’t square or at least have one true flat side it can be trickier to try and line things up. (or at least require more planning and thinking) But there are ways around that too. It’s easier and faster with some type of power tool with a fence or sled, but you can use the SM to do it too.
-S