CNC Shop Tour | My CNC Business

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  • čas přidán 5. 06. 2024
  • Big thank you to ShopSabre for sponsoring this video! Find out more about their amazing CNC machines here: www.shopsabre.com/?...
    Big thank you to Opt Lasers for sponsoring this video! Find out more about their high performance laser engraving equipment here: bit.ly/3AL8BMV
    Find all of the templates that we offer here: bit.ly/2JqP7C6
    For CNC work, please contact us here: cncwoodshed@gmail.com
    Hill Country Wood Shed: bit.ly/2xQ2VWZ
    Watch more on the Wood Shed here: bit.ly/2VVsPET
    Watch my first ever CNC project here: • Simple Step Stool with...
    Subscribe: bit.ly/3gfe5YL | Website: wilkerdos.com
    Watch the newest videos: bit.ly/3hBOdaf
    Things I Used in This Project:
    ISOtunes Ear Protection: bit.ly/2YuZBtr bit.ly/2Cf6OXP (code APRIL for $10 off)
    Stealth Mask Respirator: bit.ly/3pYLGrm (use code APRIL for 10% off)
    ShopSabre: bit.ly/3xxdTu3
    Triton Router: amzn.to/2qqnzE9
    Website: www.wilkerdos.com
    Patreon: www.patreon.com/user?u=257047
    Instagram: / wilker_dos
    Facebook: / wilkerdos
    Watch more videos!
    Shop Projects: bit.ly/2vSoEw2
    Outdoor Projects: bit.ly/2Tma2kP
    Most Popular: bit.ly/3du8kof
    Want to support me? Support the Companies that support me:
    Triton Tools: bit.ly/2jaC0dD
    ISOtunes: bit.ly/2YuZBtr
    Armor Tool: bit.ly/2PjJuKJ
    Welcome to the official April Wilkerson CZcams channel! I’m April and I’m the creator of Wilker Do’s. I am an obsessed DIYer and Woodworker. I'm not professional or have any training, so I just pick the project I want to tackle and figure it out step by step. On this channel you will find a variety of content like DIY home improvement, How-To’s, construction, design and more!
    #AprilWilkerson #cnc #shoptour
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Komentáře • 1,6K

  • @davidwinters1432
    @davidwinters1432 Před 9 měsíci +22

    Nothing makes me happier than to see a self actualized person work hard and achieve their dreams. You’re an inspiration

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 9 měsíci +2

      Thanks! I appreciate your kind words. Yes, I work long, hard hours that most don't realize. Thank you for your support and for watching.

    • @MooseBluewin
      @MooseBluewin Před 10 dny

      100%

  • @meade916
    @meade916 Před 2 lety +85

    i have a similar story....about 7 years ago i also bought my first cnc. FF to now i have 4 full size tables and 7 lasers (3 different types). Best thing i ever did for my business! and it's FUN going to work every day! congrats on your success!

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +8

      Thanks for sharing and congrats on your success! Thanks for watching.

    • @zhanrivyn6802
      @zhanrivyn6802 Před 2 lety

      @Lemuel Sound Box 💪

    • @zhanrivyn6802
      @zhanrivyn6802 Před 2 lety

      Steve and April hope you see my comment 🖐️🖐️🖐️

    • @andrewscarbeck4017
      @andrewscarbeck4017 Před 2 lety

      You the real one Steve..

    • @abegraber7181
      @abegraber7181 Před 2 lety

      Meade916
      Are you interested in sharing any advice on a new CNC Router purchase.....

  • @JMadoreTutorials
    @JMadoreTutorials Před 2 lety +50

    To say I am impressed is an understatement. I have a business of 12 people and we've grown over the course of about 8 years. You've done remarkable and it should be applauded. Such a great tour and story!

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.

    • @yaseen4270
      @yaseen4270 Před rokem

      Give me viza a am CNC machine operator

  • @mikeo759
    @mikeo759 Před 2 lety +12

    It's amazing. I started watching this channel back when you had a home shop and starting learning the pros and cons of pocket holes...

  • @davidrodgers8284
    @davidrodgers8284 Před 2 lety +9

    Hey April and team, Your beginning content (before your first cnc machine) helped push me to finding out what my passion is and I have now expanded into my own powder coating shop. Seeing others, like you, finding their passions and flourishing is what really helped me. Congrats on everything you deserve it!

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +1

      That is awesome! Thank you for your kind words.

  • @ryanwood6495
    @ryanwood6495 Před 2 lety +13

    I've watched this channel from the very beginning and to see how far you've come, the success you've achieved is nothing short of inspirational. Bravo April you are an inspiration to us small CZcams channels just starting out ❤

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +5

      Thanks for staying along for the ride. It's been a crazy journey to be sure. Thanks for watching.

    • @ryanmcgowan3061
      @ryanmcgowan3061 Před 2 lety +2

      Same here. It started off in a shed and Harbor Freight hacks, and now it's a full-fledged enterprise and TV gig. Having so much pride as a viewer feels bizarre but wonderful to experience.

  • @jimbrown8818
    @jimbrown8818 Před 2 lety +8

    I LOVE seeing the evolution of your business and process. VERY inspiring! I could see a light vacuum-sealing type machine very helpful in your packaging/shipping process.

  • @tammyhasenauer9859
    @tammyhasenauer9859 Před 2 lety +5

    I’ve been watching you seen your home fence rebuild and addition to your roof near the pool. It’s has always been a pleasant experienced watching and learning from you. Thank you April.

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +2

      Thank you! And thank you for staying along for the ride.

  • @Shawn-rq4py
    @Shawn-rq4py Před 2 lety +3

    You are the perfect example of having a dream / goal and working hard to get there. A “self made entrepreneur “.
    You started making videos because you needed to do something & couldn’t find a source for help and made your own videos.
    You’ve created a wonderful business from that lack of resources to complete your project.
    I’ve watched you form almost the very beginning of your first few small video projects to now a business owner w multiple employees.
    You are an outstanding inspiration for many people especially young women who believe they need to rely on men or at least other people etc to do something. They can see that anyone can do these things as long as they have the desire & determination.
    It’s been great to watch your success & I wish you the best going forward!

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety

      Aw thanks! I'm glad you enjoy my channel and are still along for the ride. Thanks for watching.

  • @bobprobst9609
    @bobprobst9609 Před 2 lety +7

    Congratulations, you do amazing work. I started my machining career 40 years ago running back then NC machines that ran off of paper tape.I eventually went into engineering and programming CNC’s. I retired as a operations manager of a machine shop. Keep up the good work.

    • @trumancapote4095
      @trumancapote4095 Před rokem

      hope you are still active in retirement .Those are some great skills to have

  • @stevedockery3534
    @stevedockery3534 Před 2 lety +7

    I realized in one of your first videos that you would never go backwards. You've continued to grow as a professional and as a person. Good luck and never look back.

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you for your kind words. Thanks for watching.

  • @peterlabativ6426
    @peterlabativ6426 Před 2 lety +6

    April I've been a fan of yours for a while, but after seeing this PRO CNC shop video, my fandom has reached critical mass. I started my own woodworking company in 2020 and I'm on the road to building something great. I walk away truly inspired by what you've accomplished here.

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety

      Thanks and the best of luck for your company also! Thanks for watching.

  • @stanleykeith6969
    @stanleykeith6969 Před 2 lety +26

    I remember when you did not have a place to work and you took over your husbands garage. You came a long way.

  • @mmgobey
    @mmgobey Před 2 lety +15

    Girl I’ve been watching you from the beginning. When I was a shop teacher I would always play your videos to show my students that they can do what ever they put their mind to. You go girl I’m so proud of you.

  • @DaddyKazlan
    @DaddyKazlan Před 2 lety

    Just saw this for the first time and I was smiling all the way through.
    Well over a decade ago, several of us bought a “WaterJet” to mainly glass to support our Art Glass shop and school, but custom metal shapes for others.
    Touring your shop reminded me of all the hours we spent drawing chalk lines on our shop floor just to make sure we could function smoothly.
    Thank you for sharing your shop with us, you have done an Amazing job!!! 😃👍👍👍
    Be well and be safe to one and all working there.

  • @evanlane1690
    @evanlane1690 Před 2 lety +10

    REALLY wonderful idea April! I'm so impressed! Honestly, with how your shop has grown, I have found myself watching fewer of your videos, as they're not as relatable to what I have available as they used to be. BUT I'm so proud of what you've built for yourself and I think equipping yourself to be a businesswoman outside of CZcams is a natural step forward for your talents. Good luck and God bless!

  • @JCWren
    @JCWren Před 2 lety +100

    I think what always surprises me, and that I always under-estimate, is the market for something like this. I wouldn't have really imagined there was enough sales in a template business to support 6 people and some expensive machinery.

    • @kaleoscreations8069
      @kaleoscreations8069 Před 2 lety +4

      Her CZcams channel/audience doubles as good targeted advertising!

    • @bubba6945
      @bubba6945 Před rokem +1

      i couldnt sell a gold bar for a buck. lol congrats awesome job

    • @alwayscensored6871
      @alwayscensored6871 Před rokem

      Me neither, looks like there is a bigger market than we thought.

  • @clintmyrick4128
    @clintmyrick4128 Před 2 lety +281

    As an engineer, I've always enjoyed your precise explanations of work processes, but this has just gone to the next level. 3 cheers for your business acumen and productive mindset!

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +15

      Thanks! Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching.

    • @johnanderson8096
      @johnanderson8096 Před 2 lety +10

      Clint... I was thinking how do I express myself after this video... you hit The Nail on the Head...
      Beyond my reach... Well Said!!!!.... 110% AGREE!!!!!!!!!

    • @MrDmorgan52
      @MrDmorgan52 Před 2 lety +7

      This whole operation is so cool!

    • @BearCreekWoodworking
      @BearCreekWoodworking Před 2 lety +5

      Well Said!

    • @bluehandsvideo
      @bluehandsvideo Před 2 lety +2

      Your comment is right on the money. Great video!!

  • @kohaegnewbat3539
    @kohaegnewbat3539 Před 2 lety +2

    April watching your video was like going down memory lane. I started programing wood routers back in 1983 at SeaRay boats in Oxford Michigan. I have since programed and run just about every CnC mill or lathe you can think of so I applaud you for being such a great spokes person for the industry. Great Job :)

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety

      Thanks! Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching.

  • @ButBigger42
    @ButBigger42 Před 2 lety

    Those alignment pins and atc units are awesome. I worked at a cabinet factory a long time ago and ran the cnc router. It was a little higher end, but had the alignment pins and vacuum bed. Was so quick and easy to load and and get going. My job was super simple.

  • @dimcclung
    @dimcclung Před 2 lety +5

    Jacob has been a brilliant addition to your crew. And your mom is gold!

  • @girlonaswing9439
    @girlonaswing9439 Před 2 lety +64

    Besides all that you've accomplished I love the fact that your mom has a job in your business.
    Way to Go Girl!!👍

  • @colinkelley6493
    @colinkelley6493 Před 2 lety +2

    I think the thing that tickles me the most is that your Mom is having as much fun as you are. She has been given and has taken responsibility, is fully engaged, creative and satisfied with her accomplishments. She deserves a raise. Give her a raise.

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety

      Thanks. My Mom is the best. Yes, she enjoys helping me whatever way I need. She, without hesitation stops what she's doing to pivot to what I need her to do next. I am very Blessed. Thanks for watching.

    • @colinkelley6493
      @colinkelley6493 Před 2 lety

      @@AprilWilkerson My Mom has passed away and boy do I miss her. Thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to reply. God bless you.

  • @davetodd5121
    @davetodd5121 Před 2 lety +4

    Well done! I'm retired now but shared your passion for CNC for decades, as an operator, programmer, and shop manager. Very enjoyable video!

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.

  • @Grunt49
    @Grunt49 Před 2 lety +14

    April Industries is growing by leaps and bounds.Congratulations!

  • @HouseImprovements
    @HouseImprovements Před 2 lety +92

    I applaud you April! I have always been a fan, keep up the great work!

    • @Kobe29261
      @Kobe29261 Před 2 lety +1

      I absolutely love your channel and output! Glad to see you supporting other creators!

    • @Jake-tt6mk
      @Jake-tt6mk Před 2 lety +1

      Jesus ...hope she knows about you!?!?!! In my mind seeing you here is like her winning an Oscar or something! Good on you man, showing support ....your stock just went even higher with me! Your channel led me down the woodworking path to start with, so you ....led me to her! Between the two of you I can actually make and do things now, beard and beer worthy stuff! Cheers to you both!!

    • @smarterguy
      @smarterguy Před 2 lety

      The boards are absolutely beautiful but I never understood what you called them. Also, what are they used for?

  • @dunawayguitars7494
    @dunawayguitars7494 Před 2 lety +1

    I love love this so much. I built my first CNC in 2014. It was so hard because I knew nothing.
    I'm really impress that this young woman not only started with a small cutter but then grew it into this large business.
    Amurica!!! Love it!

  • @thelambertjourney
    @thelambertjourney Před 2 lety +1

    Im finally about to start using my own CnC and seeing your work and where your ambition and drive has taken you inspires me to keep going.

  • @eeepeeep5206
    @eeepeeep5206 Před 2 lety +3

    So nice to see people working together, a great team you have. I miss those days of team work. It seems to be a lost art in today's world.

  • @maxfastest
    @maxfastest Před 2 lety +4

    April,
    I don't know how you managed to get where you are , but you've done an amazing job of setting youself up !
    You are definitely an inspiration to me !
    Love your channel !

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks! It's been quite the journey but an exciting one. Thanks for watching.

  • @xrayaiz74
    @xrayaiz74 Před 2 lety +2

    Great video demonstrating how to plan a floor layout, in a small/mid-size shop, based around your specific workflow. I think you demonstrate a textbook case, with the machines you have, how applying CNC to certain designs can really increase your throughput. Matching the right machine to the right designs is also key. What you do seems like a really profitable small business and it seems you are always adding new designs, I imagine, from your personal shop where you can obviously experiment. Many productive ideas were displayed here. Keep up the good work and you will have continued success in your business.

  • @dpeagles
    @dpeagles Před 2 lety +1

    Owning your own business and having employees is a huge amount of work, stress, and responsibility. I applaud your work ethic and tenacity.

  • @chrisbarr1359
    @chrisbarr1359 Před 2 lety +5

    Your passion about everything comes shining through in many ways!
    I am very impressed with your making skills, business abilities and most importantly your vision! I have watched you grow and it has been amazing!
    You are an inspiration to all woman that you are only limited by your dreams, desires and persistence! Peace!

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +2

      Thank you for your kind words and for watching. :)

  • @steph4287
    @steph4287 Před 2 lety +3

    This is awesome!! I found you through a stair build video, April, and man this is cool. Can't wait to hear more about this! I've always been interested in CNC machines and it's really neat to find these videos.

  • @robthomas3664
    @robthomas3664 Před 2 lety +1

    Amazing! It's been quite awhile since I've seen one of your videos, (too long, unfortunately), you were still doing the small home shop. But I am IMPRESSED how far you've taken this! Congratulations!

  • @The4GunGuy
    @The4GunGuy Před 2 lety +1

    Amazing to see how far you've come April! Great work and great work ETHIC!

  • @johnheyden7277
    @johnheyden7277 Před 2 lety +6

    I have been self employed since i was 19 yrs old, so over 50 yrs now and it's been either "feast or famine" but i never begrudged the hours of work where i made no pay because i knew i was creating something that would succeed or fail solely due to my efforts and I would reap the benefits of my labor not someone else. Be conservative in your personal splurges, diversify your talents and "save for a rainy day" and you too will be able to retire early a millionaire, like me. Good Luck!

  • @larryparish5984
    @larryparish5984 Před 2 lety +9

    Hope you've got room for the expansion of your shop, because it is looking like you might need it with your business growing all the time. Good luck & can't wait to see what's next.

  • @qaguy1982
    @qaguy1982 Před 2 lety

    April, I have been following you since you started doing home projects like storage drawers for your bed and the family tree wall art. You are amazing with how hard you work and how much you have learned. You obviously have a plan to your life and are moving along that plan. This tour of your business is incredible. Best of luck in your future.

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety

      Thank you for your kind words and for staying along for the ride. :)

  • @nbrowser
    @nbrowser Před 2 lety +1

    Holy crap April, you've come a LONG way from where you started...hats off and much respect. You got serious drive and it shows!

  • @rockriveroutdoors810
    @rockriveroutdoors810 Před 2 lety +3

    Automatic pallet changer has increased our production like you wouldn’t believe, the machines are running constantly, change out A pallet whiles B pallet is being cut, machine automatic swaps a and b pallet and starts cutting a pallet. We run high volume steel and aluminum firearms parts but with 4x8 sheets like you run a APC system would definitely be worth looking into plus depending on run times you could even run the machines dark, we work 10 hour days but since a pallet takes 4.5 hours plus to run we run the machines dark and if a tool breaks the sensors catch it

  • @ontheroadwithralph1530
    @ontheroadwithralph1530 Před 2 lety +17

    The idea of using an adjustable height desk in the shop is effing brilliant. In a perfect world, every tool would be at the same height, but it never really works that way. I could easily see using such a desk - maybe just a hand crank one - as an outfeed table for multiple tools.

    • @RobWormaldPlus
      @RobWormaldPlus Před 2 lety

      i'm sitting here watching this video at the same adjustable desk she used and my jaw just dropped. such a good idea!

  • @HalfAssHomestead
    @HalfAssHomestead Před 2 lety

    I've been watching you for a couple years now. You are an inspiration to many. Watching you grow, build the new business, get on TV with Tim and Al, and so much more. Very proud of what you have accomplished.

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety

      Thank you so much! It's been quite the journey. Thanks for watching.

  • @realotobi
    @realotobi Před 2 lety +1

    I'm seeing your channel for the first time and this is my first time seeing your video. I'm inspired because I just started my CNC workshop some months ago and to see you've done this much in 6years. I'm encouraged to keep going. Big Ups April. New fan here.

  • @Papa-Kev
    @Papa-Kev Před 2 lety +8

    You all certainly have your act together. Congrats

  • @johnwalsh4018
    @johnwalsh4018 Před 2 lety +7

    Congratulations on the CNC shop! I suggest in the future upgrading your dust/chip removal vacuums. You will see a drastic change in tool life when you can get the chips removed as fast as possible.

    • @farmcat3198
      @farmcat3198 Před 2 lety

      Not to mention reducing the amount of dust collector maintenance and bag changes. Oneida probably makes a few solutions to replace all those vacs with less equipment for a similar cost.

  • @daveyio87
    @daveyio87 Před 2 lety +1

    I'm still amazed to see where you came from, quitting your job to getting into woodworking and making youtube videos to this, its truly amazing and an inspiration. I'm trying to get into wood working myself, I'm a GM World Class Master Technian and I cannot wait to get out of my career because of how we as techs/mechanics are treated.

    • @venharis2012
      @venharis2012 Před 2 lety

      Yep I got out in 1994 after ten years as an ASE Master Tech... Went back to college and never looked back..

  • @ryanmacewen511
    @ryanmacewen511 Před 2 lety +1

    April, Kudos to you and your crew and family! Awesome to see success in action. Great video!

  • @benhatcher2603
    @benhatcher2603 Před 2 lety +9

    Look up a kahn bahn system. Basically, you look at your usage and design your stock requirements and set a point of inventory at which you need to restock. The rate of restocking is also based on usage. The stock level and minimum level are listed on a tag for each part. When a part is depleted under the minimum, it gets added to the production list.

    • @tyleryoder2242
      @tyleryoder2242 Před 2 lety +1

      Another vote for kanban! Lean manufacturing principles will streamline the shop in a hurry.

    • @dcase84
      @dcase84 Před 2 lety

      That's basically what she's doing with stacking it on the rack.

  • @johnt3461
    @johnt3461 Před 2 lety +5

    Very, very, VERY impressive!
    Way to go April !

  • @BrassThunder
    @BrassThunder Před 2 lety +2

    One of the best Presentations I have seen in my 63 years. Informative and concise along with great flow. Video quality is great as well. You really can't get much better. Well Done.

  • @Ninjump
    @Ninjump Před 2 lety +2

    Lead the way April! I've been watching you for years along with Jimmy, Ana, Bob, Ben, and the other OGs. Proud of how far youve come. It has inspired my own 8-year journey from making simple woodworking projects for neighbors to owning a construction company. We start our first house under the new name this fall. Thank you for the inspo and congrats on the new venture!

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +2

      Thank you so much and Best Wishes and Blessings on your new Company. That's awesome. Thanks for watching.

    • @Ninjump
      @Ninjump Před 2 lety +1

      @@AprilWilkerson thank you! Hope to meet in the future!

  • @robo52
    @robo52 Před 2 lety +113

    A huge congrats ... I remember back to watching you when you were starting out in that little garage space and tackling various hand tools as you did projects. Then we watched as you built the Wood Shed shop which was a major accomplishment in itself and now this. Just think, those first little waves have turned into over a million video subscribers. Well done and keep enjoying what you do ... we do!

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +9

      Thanks! Glad you are enjoying my journey. Thanks for watching.

    • @demonknight7965
      @demonknight7965 Před 2 lety +3

      Same. I remember that tiny little garage :) you have come a long way April. :) I enjoy all your videos. I wish i understood how the vaccum system on your laguna and Shop Saber were set up. I know there has to be a way to make a vaccum system for the other two.

    • @afpwebworks
      @afpwebworks Před 2 lety +11

      @@AprilWilkerson And I still get a thrill when I remember the video where you announced you had quit your job and were going to throw all your cards onto the table - hire yourself as a video producer. No trace of "oh what the hell have i done!!!!??" in your manner - you were confident and self-assured - as you have remained. I suspect one of the most dangerous places on earth would be standing between you and a goal you want to achieve. As someone who left a high paying corporate job in 1996 to employ myself as a web developer, I can appreciate some of the highs and lows you've felt along the way. It's been exciting for us to come along with you. Thank you April for sharing it with us. Long may the adventure continue!!!

    • @theimplacableauthoritarian2938
      @theimplacableauthoritarian2938 Před 2 lety

      @@AprilWilkerson From the first moment I laid eyes on you, I knew that you were special!

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +1

      @@afpwebworks Thank you for your kind words.

  • @leejohnson7293
    @leejohnson7293 Před 2 lety +14

    Beautiful, smart, AND driven! Way to go April! As a custom trim guy for 25 years and aspiring furniture maker, and now home builder, I have been enjoying watching your videos for years. An inspiring and great person you are. Thanks!

  • @richardbaynes3862
    @richardbaynes3862 Před 2 lety

    April, I’ve followed you for years....blown away with your shop! How far you’ve come... love your enthusiasm. I started out with a full size Shopbot in 2008 as a part-timer...moved on to a CAMaster a few years ago and just retired at 73 from my daytime job...jealous of your setup...keep up the inspiring videos!!

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety

      Thank you! And thanks for still being along for the ride.

  • @MrPDawes
    @MrPDawes Před 2 lety +2

    This is exactly what I wanted to do 10 years ago. Still haven't got a shed big enough for it. Guess I need to think smaller and build up. Thanks April for your inspirational video.

  • @stephenridenour6812
    @stephenridenour6812 Před 2 lety +5

    And next, you'll have big 5 axis machines to carve decorative structural components! Cool stuff! You could build a wooden sailboat from scratch with all of that!

  • @p60091
    @p60091 Před 2 lety +3

    Looking at buying at buying my first CNC. I can't imagine what a dream it must be to have a shop like this.

  • @ArcticFlies56
    @ArcticFlies56 Před 2 lety +2

    April, you’ve come a long way from the start of wood shop days. As a subscriber, I’ve watch you and you’re business grow. What a trip it was. I wish you the best of luck in all your future endeavors. Best regards, Richard

  • @Dealwithpiel
    @Dealwithpiel Před 2 lety +1

    I‘m following you for several years now and it is amazing how you still create new and most importantly different and interesting content. Very inspiring! Greetings and all the best from Hamburg/Germany

  • @cabman86
    @cabman86 Před 2 lety +3

    This is so awesome! You've come a long way since the pool house.

  • @rolandharrison5651
    @rolandharrison5651 Před 2 lety +3

    Way to go April, you’ve come so far breaking the sound barrier.

  • @davidconaway2830
    @davidconaway2830 Před 2 lety +1

    I'll bet Router Bob has a huge smile on his face seeing one of his machines in your shop. It is amazing how far you've come from that little shop in the garage! Keep reaching April!

    • @shopsabre
      @shopsabre Před 2 lety

      Sure does! Our team is honored to work with April!

  • @edjet6031
    @edjet6031 Před 2 lety

    This awesome 👏👏 Congratulations....I have a deep appreciation for what you have accomplished. I have 40 years working in the aerospace industry. 15 yrs as a machinist & tool and die and fixture builder and the rest as a manufacturing engineer and manager that oversees NC Programmers and the CNC shop that machines our composite materials that create the high end furniture that is in our excutive jets. These machines will allow you to continue to rebrand your business 10 fold. Having quality machinery and people will allow you to focus being creative and bringing more quality products to market. Keep up the great work!!!

  • @Yackhammer75
    @Yackhammer75 Před 2 lety +3

    As a former long time factory worker who's job involved a lot of assembly layout and set up I must say I really love your set up. It has taken almost everything into consideration, and provided you with really good work flow. Food for thought as you move forward and get the big things flowing well, look for the smallest little things to improve. These will ultimately stream line and improve production the most. A really good way to find them, as some of it you won't be able to see due to being so closely involved from the beginning, is to ask a friend or a worker from another area to look at things. They will provide insight and ask questions about processes you don't even realize you do, why you do them, and how to improve them. Much luck with you future endeavors and congratulations on all you have achieved thus far and what you will achieve in the future.

  • @anthonymerola320
    @anthonymerola320 Před 2 lety +8

    April, this is amazing. I just got my first CnC machine this week. My dream is to start a small side business out of my basement to build guitar templates. This video is the exact inspiration I needed. I wish you and your team all the success in the world. Keep going!!

    • @Mickeycuatropatas
      @Mickeycuatropatas Před 2 lety

      I met a yukele builder in Miami who wanted a CNC to build certain parts. I love Vectric software. Good luck as a luthier.

  • @davestufflebeam2686
    @davestufflebeam2686 Před 2 lety +1

    Such a great video April! I was so excited to learn about this side of your business. So exciting.

  • @rusnsc7622
    @rusnsc7622 Před 2 lety +2

    Been watching you for years, so cool to see how much you and your operation have grown. Wish you continued success.

  • @Terry_1111
    @Terry_1111 Před 2 lety +3

    Always informative! Thank you, April! Blessings to you!

  • @humphshumphs
    @humphshumphs Před 2 lety +3

    Brilliant video, thank you for sharing. Congratulations on how far you've come.

  • @craigandresen2456
    @craigandresen2456 Před 2 lety +1

    Love that Texas use of “whenever” in place of proper English “when” throughout the video :-). Big congrats on what you’ve built. I’ve been watching you from near the start!

  • @timothyporter1632
    @timothyporter1632 Před 2 lety

    So happy to see your success grow and grow. The first Wilkerdoo video that I saw was the guest bed frame with drawers. I too am tinkering with CNC and made a pantry door rack using dovetails. Aspire has a very cool dovetailing gadget.

  • @madwilliamflint
    @madwilliamflint Před 2 lety +4

    This is awesome. I had no idea you did any of this.

  • @aam50
    @aam50 Před 2 lety +4

    April, you are a very smart, creative lady with a real passion for what you do. Great to see you creating a business like this.

  • @benrumler7129
    @benrumler7129 Před 2 lety +1

    All the years I have watch you, you have grown so much, but you are still the person that drew me to your channel, Keep being April

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety

      Thank you! Yes, except for having learned more things so my skillset is higher, I feel I am still the same April. Thank you for your kind words.

  • @richarramos466
    @richarramos466 Před 2 lety

    hola abril.justamente empeze viendo tus videos haciendo esa ducha al aire libre en la casa de tus padres,mira donde estas hoy,eres una mujer que trabajas con pasion y amas tu trabajo a parte eres una gran diseñadora ,y creativa,me pone contento que hayas crecido ahora tienes empleados,urra por tu negocio,saludos desde argentina

  • @JeffGloverArts
    @JeffGloverArts Před 2 lety +3

    This is really impressive. I first found your channel when you were demonstrating French cleats in a garage/workshop and look at what you've accomplished! Bravo! Keep it coming!

  • @oldmanjimh3165
    @oldmanjimh3165 Před 2 lety

    Recently retired, I worked for a company who dealt with 8 x 40 foot panels and we had the largest 10 x 45 table at the time for a mainly wood CNC. It was a vacuum table system.

  • @larryschweitzer4904
    @larryschweitzer4904 Před 2 lety

    Nice job.
    Like others have said, I also got into CNC, back in the '90s. First machine was an Andi 4x8, zoned vacuum bed, 8 tool changer, L shaped multiple drill box, all axis ball screws. It was a good machine but 4x8 is very limiting for store fixture work. I then got a used 5 x10 Komo with only 500 hours on the meter. It came with a 40 hp Quincy vacuum and was a moving table machine. All the bells and whistles. Bigger spindle motor allowing 1 1/2 board to be cut at full speed. Both the Andi & Komo run Fanuc controls, Perfect over thousands of hours of operation.
    In between I also ended up with a heavy German made IMA point to point. It had great abilities but many problems. 18 position tool changer, 21 spindle drill box, C axis on the main spindle, 4 way drill with rotary, two aggregates. One that can drill with 4 different bits at any rotational angle. The 2nd aggregate was a saw that could saw at any angle and score. The water cooled spindle had flow control problems. The controls had frequent problems. The safety matts were hit or miss. The software needed updating but was terribly expensive. In the end we tore it apart and have been selling pieces.

  • @pawpawstew
    @pawpawstew Před 2 lety +5

    I've watched you from the beginning and I'm constantly amazed at how far you've come. From a business perspective, you're taking a very smart path in diversifying as a hedge against future changes in viewership levels, income streams, etc. Thanks for being an inspiration to my daughters and my grandkids.

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +4

      I appreciate that! Thank you for watching.

    • @pawpawstew
      @pawpawstew Před 2 lety

      @@AprilWilkerson You're quite welcome. Have an awesome day. 👍

  • @sukhpalsandhu6341
    @sukhpalsandhu6341 Před 2 lety +32

    Five years from now - April: "This is how I took down Home Depot and Lowes, and that's why there is a AW store in every town"

    • @jdgindustries2734
      @jdgindustries2734 Před 2 lety +3

      I mean, she has the mill... I don't think she could make as warped wood pieces if she tried to make a wooden pretzel.

  • @ericnance1178
    @ericnance1178 Před 2 lety +1

    Been following you for a couple of years now. It has been fun watching you expand over the past few years. Keep up the good work and being a good role model. Blessings!

  • @jeanjones718
    @jeanjones718 Před 2 lety +2

    From NZ... CNC is subject I know Nothing about... so I thought it was about time I learned something... and what better place to come and be impressed by than April's Little Shop on the Prairie..or wherever it is . Great looking system and team. Behind every great Woman there's a great Mum.

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety

      Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Yes, my Mom is great to be sure. Thanks for watching.

  • @thatguy6054
    @thatguy6054 Před 2 lety +9

    April, you're absolutely right about the significance of the time saved with automatic tool change. But in the real world it's much more that the 45 seconds hands-on time it takes to make the swap.
    For a human operator to do it they either have to stand around waiting until the machine needs them or the machine has to stop and wait for the human to be available. In the first case you're wasting a valuable human resource much of the time. In the second case you're holding up production throughput until the operator is available. If the operator drops whatever else they're doing to address the tool change their other task gets interrupted. All of which is inefficient, wasteful and costly.

  • @neumero4te
    @neumero4te Před 2 lety +7

    Give Jacob a raise - that adjustable table is genius. Did he have to extend the drive screw?

    • @andrewlongworth6664
      @andrewlongworth6664 Před 2 lety

      Most likely not. The frame appears to be quite similar to the electric desk I bought for my home office, which ranges from 24" to 50", without the casters.

  • @stickmanwelding
    @stickmanwelding Před 2 lety +1

    just came across this video, have to say congratulations on your success, I remember you in some videos many years ago, as don't see many vids on wood just the magic of auto play.

  • @2004ranger1
    @2004ranger1 Před 2 lety +1

    April, I have watched i think every video you have made. Even in the beginning they were spot on and informative.. you have just kicked the ball through the goal post recently.. and your genuine smile tells you are genuine....best to you going foward

  • @bryanmartin4679
    @bryanmartin4679 Před 2 lety +3

    Could you place a guard directly over trim bit to protect fingers from contacting the bit? Great video!

  • @overbehindunder
    @overbehindunder Před 2 lety +4

    Try an oscillating tool to remove those tabs - super clean, fast and precise

    • @woodfinchcrafts7267
      @woodfinchcrafts7267 Před 2 lety

      Their method is much faster.

    • @overbehindunder
      @overbehindunder Před 2 lety

      @@woodfinchcrafts7267 of course, but it also blows out the back, not always what you're after.

    • @leehaelters6182
      @leehaelters6182 Před 2 lety

      @@overbehindunder, I think that the direction they punch the pieces out keeps the tabs from breaking out the back of the workpiece. If they were lifting the parts out, the breakage would be on the back of the part, it is true.

  • @woodworks3585
    @woodworks3585 Před 2 lety

    I have watched many of your videos over the years and seen your skills grow as well as your popularity. I just want to say that you have done so well and worked so hard to get to where you are today. I am so proud of you April. Good luck for the future and be safe out there. 😁😁😁

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you! I appreciate your kind words. Thanks for watching.

  • @AMERICANPATRIOT1945
    @AMERICANPATRIOT1945 Před 2 lety

    Proudly made in the USA! It doesn't get any better than this! You are an inspiration to all manufacturing entrepreneurs, April.

  • @mpkleinbreteler
    @mpkleinbreteler Před 2 lety +4

    Thank you for the tour, really inspirational! :)
    I have two tips / things to consider: 1. you could make vacuum beds yourself for the other cnc tables, which would make the routing station obsolete. It's not super difficult :) 2. you could consider using destaco holding clamps for holding down the sheets, that might be quicker and easier than screwing them down all the time :)
    Good luck and thank you :)

  • @TimZ007
    @TimZ007 Před 2 lety +3

    that tab trimmer looks like a recipe for a nipped finger with a ton of repetitive motions.

  • @michaelbowie6599
    @michaelbowie6599 Před 2 lety +1

    Excellent video. Thank you for such a complete explanation of your business. After fallowing for so long I am still amazed at how fast and large your business has reached. Can’t wait to see another year.

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you. Yes, it is exciting. Thanks for staying along for the ride. :)

  • @fablabifurniture643
    @fablabifurniture643 Před 2 měsíci +1

    Thank you, we have learned a lot from you...we can feel your passion in explain your content about CNC router project in detail..Great job!! ☺🧡

  • @samroesch
    @samroesch Před 2 lety +5

    Super impressive business! Looking at the floor, the amount of mdf dust you're exposed to is a bit of a concern, despite the vacuum systems on all the machines. Do you have an air filtration system setup?

  • @6aquaman
    @6aquaman Před 2 lety +6

    Hey Amy, the shelving system that Jake is hanging on do you have plans for those and can sell them? These would be great for displaying my Lego sets.

  • @michaelgarnett1196
    @michaelgarnett1196 Před 2 lety +2

    Yeah I can still see ya in your first shop that you shared with your husband you have come a long way girl great job 👏

  • @MJ-py3bm
    @MJ-py3bm Před 2 lety

    April, you are a truly an inspiration to many. Your passion for taking your business into next level…
    It’s amazing your enthusiasm and energy…

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety

      Thank you for your kind words. I'm glad you're enjoying my channel. Thanks for watching.

  • @Matt_Hatt3r
    @Matt_Hatt3r Před 2 lety +7

    April: "when you're no longer interested in my videos...."
    Me (in Shrek's voice): "Yeah, like THAT'S ever gonna happen!"
    Even though I don't have the time, skill or resources you do for making things, I always enjoy watching your project videos! You always have great work and ideas!

    • @AprilWilkerson
      @AprilWilkerson  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you for you kind words. Thanks for watching.