Introduction
3-Axis CNC machine is very popular to trace the design and do productive tasks. So, today our agenda is to learn how to make a 3-Axis CNC Machine. So, let us not waste our time and start the process.
Supplies
In the article’s next section, let us look at the supplies list mentioned below.
Tools
- Pencil
- Ruler
- Hand Saw
- Drilling Machine
- 3 Millimetres screws
- Glue
- Square Ruler
Materials
- 8mm MDF Board
- MGN15H Linear Rail
- Stepper Motors
- M3 Bolts
- Gt2 Idler Pullies
- Laser Module
- Gt2 Belts
- Zip Tie
- Furniture Pads
- Micro-limit Switch
- Arduino Uno
- CNC Shield
- DRV 8825
- Jumpers
- GRBL Firmware
- Goggles
Steps To Make A 3-Axis CNC Machine
Step 1: The first step is to design the machine with the help of a SolidWorks design tool.
Designing the Machine
Step 2: Then mark the designs on the MDF Board.
Marking the Design
Step 3: After that, cut the traced designs.
Cut the Design
Step 4: Once you cut all the pieces, start making holes in them.
Drilling the Holes
Step 5: Now, make mini holes at the central part where the X and Y axis will connect.
Marking Holes in Central Section
Step 6: After marking the holes on the central piece, drill the holes.
Drilling the Holes
Step 7: Now, continue assembling the base where the X-axis and Y-axis will be secured.
Assembling X and Y-Axis
Step 8: Now, secure the support and the base part together with the help of the first three millimetres screws.
Securing the Support
Step 9: After making the first hole make the second hole and then assemble them.
Assembling the Parts
Step 10: Now, take MGN15H Linear Rail (X-Axis) and then attach it to the MDF board.
Attaching the X-Axis
Step 11: The next step is to secure the stepper motor with the help of entry bolts.
Securing the Stepper Motor
Step 12: Install Gt2 Idler Pullies inside. Near the stepper shaft located near X-Axis.
Installing the Gt2 Pullies
Step 13: Similarly, on the Y-Axis, attach one Idler Pulley
Attaching the Pulley
Step 14: Now, connect the X-Axis and Y-Axis with the help of m3 bolts.
Connecting X and Y-Axis
Step 15: Using a square ruler, check whether both axes are perpendicular. And, if they are not, you must adjust them.
Adjusting the Measurements
Step 16: The following step is to secure the laser module with the help of m3 bolts.
Securing the Laser Module
Step 17: Cover the X axes and Y axes using Gt2 belts and secure them with a zip tie or bolts.
Covering the Axes with Gt2 Belts
Step 18: At the bottom of the machine, attach some furniture pads so that the machine will remain stable.
Attaching Furniture Pads
Step 19: Install the micro-limit switch for the X and Y axes.
Installing Switches
Step 20: Fix the Arduino Uno Board on the side of the machine, simultaneously fixing the CNC shield above it.
Fixing Arduino Board and CNC Shield
Step 21: Fix the jumpers on the shield
Fixing the Jumpers
Step 22: Now, solder the wires and then connect them directly from the stepper mort with the CNC shield.
Soldering and Connecting the Wires
Step 23: The next step is to connect the Laser Motor with the shield.
Connecting the Laser Motor
Step 24: Now connect the G-code and GRBL Firmware with the Arduino
Connecting G-code and GRBL Firmware with Arduino
Step 25: Now, open the GRBL console and connect the Arduino. Once the Arduino is connected, adjust the parameters according to the requirements.
Adjusting the Parameters
Step 26: Insert the image into the software and do the editing.
Inserting the Image
Step 27: Lastly, put the frame and click on the start button. It will print the design on board.
3-Axis CNC Machine
Things To Remember
- Make sure while cutting the holes they are precise in size
- Make sure you clean and apply grease on the MGN15H Linear Rail before assembling it
- Be aware and wear the safety goggles

Saquib Siddiqui is a Mechanical Engineer and a content creator. He has special interest in science experiments and teaches the same to school and college students. He is also a technical lead at RUDE LABS PVT. LTD.
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