Charlie Wakamatsu

Home Hobbiest

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Custom CNC Projects

Wakamatsu

"Young Pine"

​​​Young Pine Designs

Now that I'm completely Retired...

I officially and completely retired on May 8, 2024!  I never thought the day would come, but it did.  About 10 years ago, I started thinking about ideas of what I would like to do during retirement.  I kept them in the back of my mind until I decided, on July 1, 2024, to get into custom CNC project making as a home hobby.


I have been a woodworker since 7th grade (over 50 years).  I like working with my hands and making things.  Over the decades, I have amassed quite a few top tier woodworking machines and tools and can pretty much make anything when it comes to wood.  Now at age 66, I noticed that I have slowed down a bit, and though I still love woodworking, I find it harder to immerse myself in a lengthly project where much time and effort is needed.  So, when I looked into making custom projects using a CNC machine, I realized that woodworking will be really exciting, and a lot less work on my part.


CNC stands for "Computer Numerical Control".  A CNC machine is a machine that uses a computer to do the work for you!  For instance, if I wanted to make a sign, similar to the one posted above, I would just need to make a wood blank, program the CNC machine to do the cutting or "Carving" for me, and with a push of a button, the CNC machine does all the work!  When the machine is finished, all I need to do is some prep work, apply some paint and or finish and it's done!


This hobby is not cheap as it will cost $3,500 to get set-up with a good CNC machine.  However, the things that I will be able to make will be amazing!  Currently, I am in the research stage.  My wife and I are planning a move to Southern Utah in 2025, and once our new home is built, I will be ready to start this new adventure!


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