Presentation models and display components
Define the required fit, finish and working environment. Include the intended test or acceptance criteria with your model.
AIHFABS MATERIAL GUIDE
CNC Wood Materials
Choose wood and sheet materials around appearance, routing detail and the installation environment.
CNC routing can turn wood stock and engineered sheets into panels, profiles and presentation components. Compare the required surface appearance with edge quality, grain direction and exposure conditions. The stock construction and finish matter as much as the programmed profile.
START WITH THE APPLICATION
Where this material family fits
Use the application to shortlist a grade, then confirm the exact requirements against the part design and operating conditions.
Routed panels and decorative profiles
Define the required fit, finish and working environment. Include the intended test or acceptance criteria with your model.
Templates and noncritical assembly aids
Define the required fit, finish and working environment. Include the intended test or acceptance criteria with your model.
DESIGN & MANUFACTURING
What to review before selecting a grade
- Specify solid wood or the required engineered board, including species or grade, thickness and visible faces.
- Review grain direction, thin sections and small cutouts. Internal corners reflect the cutter radius and may need relief.
- Describe indoor or outdoor use, edge sealing and coating. Confirm how the part will be fixed to its mating structure.
COMPARE THE AVAILABLE GRADES
Explore individual materials
CNC
Solid Hardwood
CNC routed furniture parts, jigs, display pieces, and architectural details. Grain direction and moisture content are called out on the quote.
View material details →CNC
MDF
Stable, inexpensive sheet stock for cabinets, signage cores, molds, and painted CNC profiles. Sealed edges recommended.
View material details →
CNC
Plywood / Baltic Birch
Strong nested CNC parts for furniture, crates, fixtures, and large-format panels. Specify face grade and thickness with the RFQ.
View material details →MATERIAL QUESTIONS
Frequently asked questions
Why do grain and sheet construction matter?
They influence appearance, edge behavior and dimensional movement. Include visible-face expectations and installation conditions in the brief.
Can a routed internal corner be perfectly square?
A rotating cutter leaves a radius. Consider corner relief or an agreed secondary operation when fitting rectangular mating components.
What should I provide for a wood routing quote?
Send CAD or a profile drawing, material and thickness, quantity, visible faces, finish requirements and the intended installation environment.
FROM THE AIHFABS BLOG
Recommended reading for material selection
Sla Design Guide For Printable Parts And Reliable Assembly
Design SLA parts for printing and assembly. Review walls, small features, tolerances, supports, hollow parts, and CAD files before requesting a quote.
Read article →SLA vs Other Manufacturing Processes: How to Choose
Compare SLA with DLP, LCD, FDM, SLS, MJF, SLM, and CNC machining. Shortlist processes by material, geometry, finish, cost, and your part's intended use.
Read article →How to Choose a 3D Printing Process for Cosmetic Prototype Parts
Learn how to choose the right 3D printing process for cosmetic prototype parts. Compare SLA, DLP, FDM, SLS, and MJF for surface quality, detail, fit, and finishing.
Read article →Compare other material families
Choose a material around your part
Upload CAD for a quote, or share the complete requirements for a material and manufacturing review.
