---
title: CNC plastic sheets into products
slug: cnc-plastic-sheets-into-products
description: This tutorial outlines the process of cutting HDPE sheets with an X-Carve CNC machine.

Watch the full video in Spanish with subtitles: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LrrFz802To)
tags: ["HDPE"]
category: Guides
difficulty: Medium
time: < 5 hours
location: Mexico City, Mexico
---
import { Image } from 'astro:assets'
# CNC plastic sheets into products
<Image src={import('./Copy_of_ComoCortarPlasticoConCNC_1.png')} alt="CNC plastic sheets into products" />
This tutorial outlines the process of cutting HDPE sheets with an X-Carve CNC machine.

Watch the full video in Spanish with subtitles: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LrrFz802To)

User Location: Mexico City, Mexico
## Steps
### Step 1: Meassure the plastic sheet

### Measurement and Setup

Measure the plastic sheet's height, width, and thickness. The X-Carve CNC machine uses the Easel CAM software, which allows simulation of materials, including HDPE 2-Colors. 

For reference:  
- Height: ___ meters (___ inches)  
- Width: ___ meters (___ inches)  
- Thickness: ___ millimeters (___ inches)


<Image src={import('./1.jpg')} alt="1.jpg" />


<Image src={import('./2.jpg')} alt="2.jpg" />

### Step 2: Secure sheet 

Secure the sheet to the table using the CNC clamps from the X-Carve.


<Image src={import('./3.jpg')} alt="3.jpg" />

### Step 3: Choosing a file to cut 

We proceed to a vector graphics software, like Inkscape, to create or download a vector file. Download the SVG file and import it into Easel.


<Image src={import('./4.jpg')} alt="4.jpg" />


<Image src={import('./5.jpg')} alt="5.jpg" />

### Step 4: Follow the cutting Wizzard

With the file ready, select the desired carving width and initiate the cutting process:

- Ensure the sheet is secured.
- Specify the cutting bit, such as a 1/8 inch (3.175 mm) flat flute bit.
- Set the machine’s coordinate origin at the lower-left corner.
- Raise the bit and activate the CNC Router.


<Image src={import('./6.jpg')} alt="6.jpg" />


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<Image src={import('./8.jpg')} alt="8.jpg" />

### Step 5: Cutting HDPE vs other material

**CNC Processing of Various Materials**

Typically, we cut wood, acrylic, and aluminum using the CNC. Transitioning to plastic, specifically HDPE, proved uncomplicated. The CNC Router handles HDPE with ease, outpacing wood and vastly surpassing aluminum in speed.

Our primary challenge with HDPE sheets arises from uneven surfaces due to our production process, leading to inconsistent cuts and engravings. To address this, we often perform an initial CNC pass to level the sheet's surface.


<Image src={import('./IMG_20210108_192930.jpg')} alt="IMG_20210108_192930.jpg" />


<Image src={import('./IMG_20210108_144432.jpg')} alt="IMG_20210108_144432.jpg" />


<Image src={import('./IMG_20210108_193019.jpg')} alt="IMG_20210108_193019.jpg" />

### Step 6: Post-production and show case

### Final Version

Take your glasses or object, post-process them, and share the results with others.


<Image src={import('./9.jpg')} alt="9.jpg" />


<Image src={import('./Sin_titulo.png')} alt="Sin título.png" />