MAXMAKE CNC Blog

Who says CNC is only for hard materials? Today, we're leveraging the high-precision capabilities of the HiMill D1S Desktop CNC to blend rugged vegetable-tanned leather with exquisite brass engravings. By achieving burr-free cuts at high spindle speeds, we’re crafting a custom accessory that radiates pure punk aesthetics.

🛠️ I. Project Overview

• Project Name DIY Retro Pentagram Leather Wristband
• Equipment HiMill D1S Desktop CNC
• Core Principles Metal Relief Engraving + Leather Profiling + Precision Drilling
• Cycle Time Approx. 8 Hours
• Difficulty ★★★★☆ (Advanced: Requires handling irregular leather cutting)
• Materials 5.5mm Brass, 1mm Leather, Vintage Buckle, Rivets, Waxed Thread

📋 II. Preparation: Materials & Tooling

For a wearable product, size precision and edge finishing are the keys to success.

1. Hardware & Materials (BOM):

• Brass: 5.5mm Brass plate (for the metal inlay).
• Leather: 1mm vegetable-tanned leather.
• Hardware: Vintage buckle, hollow rivets, waxed leather thread.

2. Essential Tooling:

• 3.175mm Single Flute Spiral End Mill: Used for brass roughing.
• 2.5mm Ball Nose End Mill: Used for fine relief engraving on the brass plate.
• 1.5mm Single Flute Spiral End Mill: Used for precise leather contour cutting.

💻 III. CAM Strategy (Machining Parameters)

To master this hybrid build, copy these exact parameters into your CAM software:

A. Brass Machining

• Roughing: 1.5mm Stepover | 0.1mm Stepdown | 200mm/min Feed | 13,000 RPM
• Finishing: 0.1mm Stepover | 0.1mm Stepdown | 200mm/min Feed | 13,000 RPM

B. Leather Cutting (Laser Module)

• Cutting Speed: 5 mm/s
• Laser Power: 98%
• Note: Keep the speed high to prevent thermal damage or charring on the leather.

⚙️ IV. Machining Process

1. Brass Engraving: Secure the brass plate with high-strength adhesive or clamps. Precision is everything—don't rush the finishing passes.
2. Profile Cutting: Finalize the outer profile of the metal tag.
3. Leather Cutting: Secure the leather to a sacrificial board. CNC-drilled stitch holes ensure professional-grade alignment.

🧩 V. Post-Processing & Assembly

1. Deburring: Smooth out the brass edges with fine-grit sandpaper for comfort.
2. Patina: Lightly polish or oxidize the brass for a retro, "lived-in" feel.
3. Hand-Stitching: Thread the waxed leather cord through the CNC-drilled holes for a professional cross-stitch look.
4. Hardware: Install the rivets and vintage buckle.

📸 VI. Final Showcase

When the precision-engraved pentagram meets the raw, tactile warmth of leather, the result is a testament to the versatility of desktop manufacturing. It’s not just a bracelet—it’s a piece of kinetic art on your wrist.