Finding your Creative Voice: Incorporating Modern Digital Tools

Do you want to take your craft to the next level by incorporating modern digital tools? Have you ever wondered how CNC machines, CAD software, or 3D printers could enhance your creative process? In this presentation, my goal is to: (1) Introduce you to the possibilities of CNC technology, including how to choose the right machine and apply it to your work, (2) Provide a practical introduction to CAD, helping you understand its importance and where to start learning, and (3) Explore how 3D printing can be integrated into your craft to create custom tools, forms, and unique pieces. I hope to inspire and empower you to blend traditional craftsmanship with digital innovation, opening up new possibilities for your creative journey.

If you cannot attend in person, you are welcome to join on Zoom. Please click here to attend online before 2:00 pm.

After the event, please stick around for a social with freshments and discussion of projects and art!

John Welch is a seasoned designer and woodworker with over 20 years of experience in the food production industry, specializing in the design and manufacturing of extrusion dies using tools such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, MasterCAM, and Fusion 360. A woodworker for over a decade, John transitioned from hobbyist to full-time self-employed woodworker in March 2023. During that time, he also taught spoon carving classes and participated in various markets and fairs, selling handmade wares.

Now, he has carved out a niche in creating pasta-related wooden tools, blending traditional woodworking with CNC technology in his North Chelmsford shop. His work has been featured in prominent publications, including Food & Wine, Boston Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Chronicle, Woodcarving Illustrated, and New England Home Magazine.

Click on the links to check out John's work: www.johnfrancisdesigns.com and www.instagram.com/johnfrancisdesigns