Hey everyone,
Wanted to share NALCNC, a fresh open-source large-format CNC project from Nal Design Studio. It's an optimized evolution of designs like the MPCNC, but taken to pro-level rigidity and speed for intensive woodworking, carpentry, and precision milling in hard materials.
The core idea: A hybrid design with just 3 optimized 3D-printed modules (PETG-CF/PA-CF) reinforced with steel tubes and ball screws. Super scalable, easy assembly, and cost-effective.
Key features:
Standard models (kits or complete machines):
- Fully open-source (OCL license) – 3D files, STEP/DXF plans.
- Scalable work areas: 500x500 mm up to 1500x3000 mm+.
- Pro mechanics: SFU1610/1204 ball screws with rotating nut (high precision/speed, no whip).
- Steel tube guides (round OX or square QX versions).
- Compatible with GRBL, FluidNC, MASSO, MakerFr, Jackpot3, etc.
- Great for heavy-duty use in wood, composites, light alum.
Official site: nalcnc
- 1010: ~500x500 mm
- 1220: ~700x1500 mm
- 1730: ~1200x2500 mm
Right now, exclusive private sale with up to 70% off for early builders/influencers/pros – bookings open early 2026.
What do you think? Anyone planning a big DIY build? Questions on assembly, spindle compatibility, or real-world performance? Happy to discuss – community feedback is gold!
NALCNC: New Open-Source High-Performance Modular CNC System | Large Format Kits & Machines
Build in 'Cartesian Style CNC' published by naltek, Jan 3, 2026 at 1:18 AM.
NALCNC: New Open-Source High-Performance Modular CNC System (MPCNC Evolution) – Large Format Kits & Machines
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- Build Progress:
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- Build Complete!
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Special Notes
This NALCNC project is governed by the Open Community License (OCL), a license designed to promote open access for the community while ensuring fair competition and the right to repair.
Full text of the OCL license available here: https://github.com/OpenCommunityLicence/OpenCommunityLicence
Since the OCL is not listed among the license options provided on OpenBuilds, this mention ensures transparency for the community. Feel free to adapt it slightly if needed!
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Build Author naltek, Find all builds by naltek
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Build Details
- Build License:
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- CC - Attribution - CC BY
Reason for this Build
Why did I design and build NALCNC?
As Nal Design Studio, I've always been passionate about open-source DIY CNCs, and I've greatly appreciated projects like the MPCNC from V1 Engineering—accessible machines with 3D-printed parts, perfect for soft materials or applications like laser/plasma engraving.
But in real-world intensive workshop use (woodworking, carpentry, large-format cutting), these designs quickly hit their limits: insufficient rigidity for deep, fast passes in hardwoods, room for improvement in precision, and sometimes complex assembly for truly large formats.
That's why I created NALCNC-PRINT: a major "PRO" evolution of the MPCNC concept, completely rethought to deliver professional performance while remaining accessible, modular, and affordable.
With just 3 optimized 3D-printed mechanical modules (in reinforced technical materials), steel tubes, and ball screws with rotating nuts (like on high-end machines), NALCNC makes it easy to build ultra-rigid, precise, and fast 3- or 4-axis CNC routers
- capable of intensive machining in hardwood, composites, and even light aluminum passes.
- The goal: democratize large-format machines (up to 1500x3000 mm and beyond) that hold up in real production, while keeping the DIY and open-source spirit (OCL license, free plans for early adopters).
In short, NALCNC was born from the desire to bridge the gap between accessible hobby CNCs and expensive professional machines - so anyone can assemble (or have assembled) a true workhorse without compromising on performance!
What do you think? If you have questions about the technical choices or how it improves on the MPCNC, I'm all ears!Inspired by
Here is a list of CNC machines that inspired NALCNC-PRINT, ready to be integrated into your publication (for example, as a dedicated section). I have written it in an engaging and community-oriented way, with the most relevant official links. Machines that inspired NALCNC-PRINT: NALCNC-PRINT draws heavily on several iconic open-source DIY projects from the CNC community. Here are the main sources of inspiration: Momus CNC: A precise and well-documented benchtop design, with a modular and rigid approach that influenced the structural choices. Official website: momus CNC | benchtop DIY router plans | home page MPCNC (Mostly Printed CNC): V1 Engineering's flagship project, with its 3D-printed parts and scalability – it is the direct basis for the "PRO" evolution that NALCNC represents. Official website: V1 Engineering Inc (and documentation: https://docs.v1e.com/mpcnc/) LowRider CNC: Also from V1 Engineering, a large-format machine capable of handling full sheets, which inspired the design's focus on large formats and rigidity for heavy-duty machining. Official website: V1 Engineering Inc (and documentation: LowRider CNC V4 - V1 Engineering Documentation) These projects demonstrate the DIY spirit I wanted to push further towards professional performance. Thanks to their creators for paving the way! If you've built one of these, please share your experiences -
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