V-Carve Inlay Application
V-Carve Inlays are now live with Easel Pro!
This has been one of the most requested features from our community, and we're thrilled to put it in your hands.
With the V-Carve Inlay application, Easel automatically generates two workpieces within your project that allow you to carve the perfect parts to fit together to create a multi-material inlay.
Butterfly Inlay project photos provided by Richard Campbell
Understanding the V-Carve Inlay Workflow
The V-Carve Inlay feature generates two separate workpieces:
The pocket is the part of the inlay that is hollowed out to accept the plug. It is a V-carved recess cut into the main workpiece using a V-bit. Because the carve is made with a V-bit, the walls of the pocket are angled.
Plug
The plug is the part of the inlay that is cut out and is set into the pocket. It is carved separately—typically from a contrasting wood species—and uses the same V-bit geometry so it fits tightly into the pocket.
Using the V-Carve Inlay App
Start by opening a new Easel project. Add a design element that will serve as the template for your inlay.
Make sure the design element’s dimensions accurately match the size of the inlay you want to create.
It is recommended that you have your materials and bits available while setting up the project so you can reference exact measurements.
Important: Hardwood is strongly recommended for the Inlay Generator. Softwoods and plywood may not produce optimal results.
Once you have your design at the correct dimensions, select it and click on the V-Carve inlay option on the left-hand toolbar. This will open the V-Carve Inlay application.
The application window will include configuration options on the left side and a 3D preview on the right side. Under the configuration options on the left side of the application, you will see options for:
Pocket Depth to set the depth of the inlay.
Pocket Bits to choose the bits you intend to use for the pocket cut (roughing is optional).
Plug Stock to define the material settings/dimensions for the plug. (Because the plug is imported with an offset, there is a minimum size requirement.)
Plug Bits to choose the bits you intend to use for the plug cut (Roughing bit, Detail bit, Outline bit).
[The detail bit will already be chosen, as this is the same V-bit that is chosen for the pocket.]
For a full step-by-step guide on how to use the V-Carve Inlay application, check out these instructions.