Beginner CNCer here (shapeoko pro XXL) but long time woodworker. I'm using vcarve pro, exporting toolpaths to carbide motion ATC, using very conservative feeds and speeds. This is a simple v-carve path of a text with single line font.
What checks and tests can I run to narrow down the cause?
I applied it the same way as on the second picture. The only difference is the first one is an upcut end mill and the second was a v-bit. Yes this is plywood, and yes upcut can cause fibers to tear out on the top, but the oramask getting jagged and roughly ripped too?
UPDATE: ok seems like vcarve was playing a piece on me. The first "bad" pass was the clearance pass, the second one now with a v-bit cleaned up the edges soooo nice!
Spoiler alert: It's totally me. I just can't get it right!
Applying general finishes high performance water based poly, satin on this water based dye stained (also from Gf) plywood. I'm using a high quality foam brush. Picture is after the second coat has dried and you can see streaks and lap marks. Plus a white-ish film.
I'm not sure if it's how I'm brushing (technique) or whether my conditions are not optimal. My shop is well ventilated, roughly 70F and 50% relative humidity.
On some brush strokes there are gaps or spots that dry quicker. I know I shouldn't backbrush or overwork the pass, but there are dry spots and uneven layer, so I do a once over final stroke on the same line, which mostly leaves it nice and consistent. But when dry I see the lap marks...
I once tried the applicator pad covered with a woman's nylon socks (a footie), which was a better experience applying the finish, but also got lap marks.
I want to stick to oil finishes only, but my favorite stains are water based, and I don't want to wait 72h... Help!