Dave Hebson - VCarve Inlay 8 Ball

Looking at a project like this definitely gets you thinking — and that’s exactly what Dave did when he worked out how to create what initially seemed like an impossible inlay on a sphere!

Taking inspiration from a classic 8-ball, Dave realised that instead of trying to bend the inlay around the dome, he could machine the inlay deep enough into a flat piece of material, then remove the surrounding material to reveal the ball shape.

Using Aspire’s easy-to-use 3D modelling tools, Dave created half of the sphere before importing a photo of a real 8-ball to help get the size and style of the iconic “8” just right. Then it was time for the star of the show: the VCarve Inlay toolpath.

This is a fantastic example of what the VCarve Inlay toolpath can achieve, and just how impressive the results can be. In this video, Dave walks you through the entire design and machining process, explaining each step and sharing the thinking behind his approach.

And, of course, it all comes together in the finishing. From using the machining lines to guide his sanding technique to building up thin layers of finish, there’s plenty to learn and be inspired by.

Tools Used

• 30° ¼" V-Bit
• 6mm End Mill
• 2mm End Mill
• 3.75mm End Mill
• 6mm Ball Nose End Mill
• 32mm Flattening Bit to surface the plug material

Features Used

• Simple 3D modelling to create the dome
• Bitmap import
• VCarve Inlay toolpath