Welcome to the Urban CNC Recommended Resources Page.
The purpose is to provide one page containing links to sites and tools that we commonly use. All tools and sites listed are resources that we are actively using.
CAD/CAM Modeling Software 
The following tools are used to create 2D and 3D models or generate G-Code.
AUTODESK FUSION 360 
Fusion 360 is a very powerful 3D modeling software with integrated CAM for generating CNC programs. The best part is it is cheap! Similar software like Solidworks or Vectric Aspire are also very powerful but will cost a lot more money. Fusion 360 is cloud based so it can be accessed from multiple computers (Example: if you have a desktop computer and a laptop).
We use Fusion 360 for all our 2D and 3D modeling as well as all tool path and CNC programming.
Inkscape
Inkscape is a FREE vector graphics software with professional quality tools.
We use Inkscape to generate vector graphics (svg, dxf) from raster images (JPEG, PNG) for use in Fusion 360.
LinuxCNC
LinuxCNC Documentation
Considering it is open-source, LinuxCNC has very professional Documentation. There are several versions of LinuxCNC and the documentation can be viewed by downloading a PDF or HTML website. If you are considering LinuxCNC read as much of this documentation as possible.
LinuxCNC FOrum
The LinuxCNC Forum has a ton of great information. It does require a lot of digging to find what you are looking for, but chances are someone has already asked your question and someone else has solved it. The community is very helpful!
Getting LinuxCNC
Getting LinuxCNC is a useful guide to installing Linux and LinuxCNC. The forums may have more detailed steps to cover your exact setup.
General CNC Information
CNC Zone
CNC Zone is the best overall place to find hobby CNC information, get inspired, show off your designs and ask questions. The hobby CNC community is very helpful so don’t be afraid to ask a question. More than likely, your question has already been asked and answered.
CNC Hardware
Linear Rails & Ballscrews
Check Ebay for kits. There are several suppliers that offer similar products. The Chinese made stuff will be much cheaper but there is a reduction in quality. Our overall experience with the Chinese bearings was good but a couple of the bearings seemed to have tolerance issues.
Router Bits
At Urban CNC we prefer to use Onsrud Router Bits. They have a great selection provide great information for bit geometry and feeds & speeds. We have also had good results with Amana Tools.
CNC Electronics
Mesa I/O Cards
We had a great experience dealing with John Thornton from mesaus.com. John was very helpful and answered questions quickly.
Leadshine Stepper Drivers
We are very happy with the performance of the Leadshine MX4660. We purchased through American Motion Tech. They have kits which include the stepper motors, drivers and power supply at reasonable prices.
If you still have questions, please leave a comment below or send us a message through our Contact Page. See our Tutorials Page to learn how to use the tools listed here.