15 CNC Artwork Ideas That You Can Make

Have you noticed the beautiful artwork and designs popping up in online stores? Have you ever wondered how CNC artwork is created?

CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. It’s artwork created on a machine. It is a great way to create 3-D designs and unique patterns in materials like metal and wood.

Learning how to use CNC is a great asset for artists and can create beautiful signature designs. Keep reading for 15 CNC project design ideas you can make yourself.

1. 3D CNC Artwork

A popular 3D CNC artwork technique is the recreation of a photograph into a piece of wood. They make great gifts that will be cherished and passed down for generations.

2. Business Signs

Business signs are top-selling CNC projects. Business owners want unique signage that can also become a signature piece in offices. The signs are created from various types of materials.

If the business has a custom logo, they can create a product line or use smaller models as customer appreciation gifts.

3. Clocks

With the progression of mobile devices, some people use them for keeping time. Clocks are still a popular fixture in homes and businesses. You can create an amazing CNC timepiece as a unique decorative wall feature.

4. Multi-Use Trays

Trays have many purposes: some or decorative pieces for a dresser. You can use them to hold a vase. Or use them the traditional way.

With CNC project ideas, you can customize trays for any decor. If you use them to carry food, customize the trays with each family member’s name. In addition to the trays, you can design a tray rack to store the trays when not in use.

5. Yard Signs

Have you ever walked through a garden and saw decorative garden signs identifying each flower or shrub? What about during the holidays? Cool CNC projects can create reindeer, pumpkins, and other signage to beautify your yard. This type of modern technology is also used by landscapers in cobblelock paving.

6. Game Boards

Game boards are fun CNC projects. Tic Tac Toe, chess, and corn hole are just a few games you can bring to life with CNC machinery. These are fun backyard games enjoyed by all ages.

Most games are easily transported to the beach or park.

7. Leather Wallets

Leather wallets and smartphone cases are something most people use. They are easy to customize with initials, logos, or insignias with special meaning.

You don’t have to limit yourself to wallets. Create a product line that also includes handbags, pouches, and belts.

8. Wall Art

There’s an endless amount of amazing CNC wall art you can create for the home, office, or commercial developments. Everything from distinct to abstract designs that people will admire and pay top dollar to own.

With wall art, size is rarely a concern, so your project can range from portrait size to heights and widths equal to the wall’s dimensions.

9. Decorative Furnishings

Is creative furniture something you love? Create cool CNC projects people will want to showcase in their homes. Focus on one-of-a-kind signature pieces. Accent chairs, end tables, or bookcases are good to start a signature collection.

Look for festivals and weekend markets to sell your creations and get new orders.

10. Unique Gates

Have you ever driven past a house and wondered where they purchased a fence gate? Gates and fencing are other top-selling CNC project ideas. Instead of traditional fencing, add a centerpiece gate or random slates.

You can incorporate flower designs or other earthy scenes. These projects are done in wood, metal, or a mixture of both.

11. Metal Signage

We see metal signage everywhere and never think of it as an example of CNC artwork. Most people would think the pieces are created in a metal shop or large factory.

With the proper machinery, you can create nostalgic or fun CNC projects. Layering shapes and cut-outs on metal makes multi-dimensional artwork more intriguing.

You can paint pieces to tell a story or replicate a business logo.

12. Metal Yard Art

Birds, flowers, animals, and directional signage are popular forms of metal yard art in residential neighborhoods. Homeowners in beach towns love to display metal beach scenes of umbrellas and sunsets.

You can also attach metal yard art to wood fencing or create an artistic display as a property divider.

Buck the tradition of giant inflatables during the holidays. Instead, have customized holiday-themed art displayed throughout your lawn and illuminate the pieces with lights.

13. Wine Box Holders

There is no denying that people love wine. As more brands enter the market, giving wine as a gift is becoming more popular. Gifting a friend a wine box holder with a bottle of their favorite Rose’ or Merlot will make the gift memorable.

The boxes are nice to display on a bar or next in a wine cellar or room if they are lucky enough to have one.

14. Kitchen Cutting Boards and Rolling Pins

Every person who loves to cook needs a nice decorative cutting board and rolling pins. Even if your friends don’t cook a whole lot, they’re still required amenities for every gourmet-themed kitchen.

You can customize the cutting board with the top chef’s name or surname. Or design rolling pins in multiple sizes. Engrave the names of popular pastries. Another is etched-themed designs with cake, pie, or other baked goods.

15. Wood Blocks for Children

Building blocks and developmental games for young children is our final CNC project idea. Don’t believe the hype that toddlers only learn by watching Coco Melon.

The developing brain is still drawn to building blocks in varying sizes, shapes, textures, and colors. Wood blocks are educational tools that parents and pre-schools still believe are good investments.

Go Ahead and Get Your CNC Design On

CNC artwork is fun to create, and there is no limit to your creativity. Whether you want to start a business or create pieces for family and friends, learning this technique is valuable.

If you plan on starting a business, keep browsing our site for great content to help you get started.