Cut Out in MDF

[Taflad]

Hi All, I have a new cab to build and I am wondering the best  way to do it. I have attached the design, but need to know would it be best to just cut a circle and mount the image on persbex and back light it, or get it cnc cut and use EL wire to light it. I have no access to a CNC so may need to order on line or visit local schools to see if they would do it. Just want an opinion on practicality and aesthetics.

[wp34]

Do you have access to a hand router?

[Taflad]

Hiya,

Yes, a friend of mine has one

[wp34]

You can use a circle jig with your friends router.   I've got one like this but you can easily make one with a scrap piece of hardboard.

http://www.amazon.com/Jasper-200J-Circle-Cutting-Plunge/dp/B00009K77A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1427562306&sr=8-1&keywords=circle+jig

How it works is you pin the jig to the middle of your circle and (using a straight bit) rotate your router in a circle. 

This video shows how to build and use the jig.

http://www.instructables.com/id/Woodworking-router-circle-jig-make-your-own/

If you already have a shape you can use as a pattern you can also use a flush trim bit with your router to cut the circle.  I did that with one of my early circles on my Tron build.

http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,116519.msg1234698.html#msg1234698

[RetroArcadePro]

I think he is referring to the MK logo.

[BorgDog]

That MK logo would be a tough cutout.. got a laser cutter?  careful work with a jigsaw maybe, would be pretty damn cool though.

[wp34]

I think he is referring to the MK logo.

Ahh.  I have no clue how you would do that without a CNC.  Especially if you are particular about both sides being exact.

[bfauska]

You could have someone with a CNC cut the shape as a template and use a flush cut router bit with it to cut the image onto your side panels. The biggest risk here is that the template would flex or break because of the thin spots and unsupported spots but you could potentially make that work by having the template made as a partial depth cut instead of all the way through the piece, it would just have to be cut deep enough for the bearing to ride on it.
OR... you could cut the circular opening and have someone cut the shape for you either on a CNC or with a laser and then inlay the shape or install it inside the cabinet behind the round opening.
OR... have the image etched onto the acrylic and edgelight it behind the circular opening.

[Taflad]

Hi, Wow, thanks for so many replies! Yes, I was on about MK logo. I think CNC is probably the way to go. My hand tool skills are ok for the big stuff, but Id worry about the intricate stuff. I like the idea of backlit film if it comes to that though. Thanks for all the help guys

[Slippyblade]

OR... have the image etched onto the acrylic and edgelight it behind the circular opening.

Oh, that would look sexy.

[RetroArcadePro]

You could cut out a complete circle and rabbet the inside to reduce the depth then inset an acrylic cutout of the mk logo. Hit me up and I can help you with routing or laser cutting/engraving something.