There are a number of ways to create textures in EnRoute. One of the methods offer unlimited possibilities. This is called Parametric TEXTURES. They are created by mathematical equations and go in all directions infinitely.
There are often a number of ways to accomplish any given task in EnRoute, sometimes with subtle differences in the results. To be an accomplished user of the software we need to become familiar with as many as possible and then use the one that suits us best. Today I wanted to show how I like to use the ‘LIMIT TO HEIGHT’ function. As with all of the lessons so far I first drew a square vector to create the base relief
This lesson is on creating shaped letters and by that I mean letters with a dome or bevel top. If the strokes of the letter are relatively even and the angle of the bevel or dome is shallow how you use the shaping tools is not as critical but for many lettering styles it matters a great deal. I started with a square shape and a letter ‘a’ once more. Then I selected the square and created a flat relief that was 0.3″ thick. Then I selected the box and the letter ‘a’ vector and used the bevel tool to modify the base relief by adding the beveled letter
As we get into these lessons about how to use EnRoute it is important for those new to the program to start at the beginning and learn the basics before jumping to the harder stuff. Repetition is critical to learn it well. As you do each step predict what is about to happen and understand why. Then after each step take the time to render and look at all four views.
First we need to make note that there are different versions of EnRoute. To create 3D files you need EnRoute Pro. I use the latest version EnRoute Pro 5. Earlier versions will do most of the things the later versions do but the speed of the program has really gotten much better of late.
Next to the type of CNC machine we buy the next biggest decision will be the software we choose. Like the hardware we first have to educate ourselves in order to make the choice that fits our needs. In my case I was first advised by my MultiCam dealer who sold me the machine. He looked over the type of work we were currently doing and then asked me some questions. What did I want to do with the machine
Trains are one of my favourite things and any time I get a chance to build one there is no hesitation. The second phase of Cultus Lake Adventure Park is now underway and one of the new rides is a Run Away Mine Train coaster. There is a good sized mountain we are building as part of the attraction. A train engine balanced precariously on some blown out mine tracks will be part of it.
There has been a change in the workshops. Our Sign Magic Workshop (formerly to be held in our shop in Chilliwack British Columbia, Canada) is now to be combined with the EnRoute Denver 3 day workshop. The final schedule is still to be worked out but this workshop will include much of what we teach in our workshops plus the techniques taught at the other EnRoute workshops.
The 2015 Workshop Series EnRoute Workshop Schedule for 2015 • Phoenix, AZ, March 5-6 @ Multicam Technology Center • Atlanta, GA, March 19-20 @ Madera Arts • Dallas, TX, April 16-17 @ Multicam Technology Center • Chicago/Great Lakes, May 14-15 @ Multicam Technology Center • Denver, CO VIP event Sept 16-18* • Hackensack NJ, October 8-9 @ Multicam Technology Center • Anaheim, CA, December 3-4 @ Multicam Technology Center *Meet the EnRoute developers at this special 3 Day “EnRoute Pro” event in Denver, CO. This will be a more advanced, three day class focused on 3D surfacing, carving and texture creation specifically for the sign and woodworking industries “The EnRoute workshop was worth every cent. The instructors patiently relayed, in detail, every aspect of EnRoute’s 2.5D, 3D, Rapid Texture techniques and the many other functions of Enroute.