So I’m trying to find an excuse to to buy the $1899 (plus free shipping) Craftsman 3D Computer-Controlled Carving Machine. The CompuCarve looks amazing!! It not only carves but it can rip, cross cut, miter, contour, joint and route most soft materials. So wood, plastics (polycarbonate or cast acrylic) and certain types of high density foam will work great! For $1899 you get the machine, (1) 1/16 in. carbide carving bit, (1) 1/8 in. carbide cutting bit, a CarveWright Memory Card, the starter software package, (2) 1/4 in. bit adaptors, vacuum bag adaptor, bit removal tool, hex wrench, owner’s manual and Quick Start Guide. WOW!
I guess the only drawback is that it can only handle widths of up to 14-1/2″ wide and 5″ high. I bet you can join your designs if you require wider, taller pieces.
My dad is a fine cabinet maker, he never got into carving, but I have been lucky because I have access to all his tools — I wonder if I can get him excited about this one?
Oh, and they even have a 3D scanning probe, so you can recreate a design. Perfect for antique restoration!
Update: This is a rebranded CarveWright unit — Check out this site for even more info.