I’m trying to use my Onefinity for lettering for picture frames but for some reason when I cut, the lettering isn’t centered on the frame. The lettering will be 2-3 mm off. Doesn’t sound like a lot but on a narrow frame it becomes very noticeable.
I’m using Vcarve Pro for my software and make sure that the letters are centered before I save my toolpaths. When I run an image project, no issues with centering.
Wondering if anyone might have insight in how to fix this. Thanks in advance.
Welcome, Nick.
Got any pictures?
The first thing that came to my mind when seeing the photo is that you have very little margin for error.
As a result, ensuring precise setup is crucial. Your X-Y zero point must be spot on, and the dimensions of your workpiece need to be entered into Vectric exactly as they are in reality. Additionally, avoid setting the zero point using a V-bit; instead, use a non-tapered bit such as an end mill for accuracy.
Here are some steps you could follow, assuming the X-axis in your photo is the left-to-right direction, running along the bottom of the letters to the top:
Now, check whether the bit is exactly at the opposite edge of the workpiece.
Could there be another setting or misalignment in Vectric that’s shifting the carved letters?
Not even going to try to expand on what @SurfinGump said, that is an outstanding explanation.
Bookmarking this for my own reference.
Thanks, Forrest!
For perfect alignment - I would use a jig. something like the pic I added, making it larger and letting machine cut it out so it is square and true to your machine,
I normally use alignment dowels into the wasteboard and just manually countersink screw holes.
MDF is good for a limited use jig. you can use whatever hold down you like for the frame.
To get things aligned to where my ocd it happy… in this case I would cut some scraps that fit in the slot and adjust the letters in software and re-cut till they are exactly where I want them. This is “assuming” frames are consistent.
The jig allows you to set zero to a known location once and repeat cuts on multiple frames without worrying about positioning. It is also cheap enough to throw out once your done.
This obviously can get complicated and time consuming to build this I can already see how I would over build it… LOL
I remind myself of the KISS method, and make it as minimal as possible. 
Key is definitely as mentioned earlier, use a straight bit to set zero once. then switch to your other bit and only set Z height.
Hope this helps… even a little.
Greatly appreciate the explanation. I’ll it through like you suggested.
Thank you for the jig. Should definitely help out. Gonna ensure that everything is square and then run the jig.
I must have had more fun than I thought last night, because even with the diagram I’m lost on this one.
It’s clear in my 
If you’ve not used jigs much, then I get that.
This just allows the picture frames to be in the exact same position every time, the machine and software do the rest.
I get fixtures, I use them on my laser. Its something about doing it in a second plane that is throwing off my mental picture.
I have an idea how I would do it, based off of seeing Jay Bates’ table and being familar with deadman clamps on benches also I just have no hands on experience like this yet to relate to.
This was from my run on the project today. The test run went well then when I ran for the actual product, same issue as far as misalignment. I followed your steps, and ensured that the machine is square with the X level. Any suggestions?
The letters were centered on the project before I saved the toothpath.
If the first picture is from your test run and everything appears correct, but the second picture (after switching workpieces and running the same program) is misaligned, then the issue likely stems from one of the following:
Something clearly changed between runs—whether it’s related to the material, the setup process, or both.
Could this be an issue with the accuracy or precision of your mounting process (jig)? If the workpiece shifts slightly or isn’t positioned identically each time, that could explain the X-axis offset.
Perhaps others have additional insights?
Have you tried setting XY Datum Position in Vectric to the center position, then set your X-Y zero to the center of your material?
Dang, that’s frustrating. Even from my house.
I don’t think anybody asked you this or you have said - forgive me if I am wrong.
Is this an assembled picture frame where you are trying to engrave more than one side at a time?
If so then squareness of the frame and exact dimensions of the inside and outside are going to be critical. Also you can’t assume that 2 identical frames will have identical dimensions.
Can you take a pic from further back showing the setup with the test piece and with the frame. I want to see the jig and mounting.
If you cut the jig with the CNC and the frame fits snug, and your test piece cut correctly, there is something that is moving.
I’ll check back here more often.
