Originally Posted by
BobHill
Robin,
For carving the ppi resolution of your image does not have to be set to 300ppi (pixels per inch), that's a setting for best printing (laser/inkjet, etc.). Although 300ppi won't do any harm except for increasing the size of your image file (thus reduce your storage space on your Flash Card), you can set the ppi value to as low as 126ppi from what I understand is the best carving carving resolution. This would be geared to the 3d movement of the bit travel during the carving.
The factor, unless your machine is having problems, for making smooth carvings, is ALWAYS use the BEST carving option, and what wood you use to carve in. First try some of the tried and true patterns (Library) and something like maple to carve and compare that with the results you have gotten to date. Be sure your bit is solidly in the QC holder with no wobble, etc. as well, of course.
Bob