Recreate a Part Using Only a Photo | FreeCAD Modeling + CAM + CNC Milling
Learn how to recreate a real object using only a photo, then model it in FreeCAD, generate the toolpaths in the CAM Workbench, and finally mill the replacement plate on a CNC machine.
This tutorial shows the complete workflow:
How to take the photo correctly for accurate modeling
Importing and calibrating the image inside FreeCAD
Tracing the outline using a sketch
Modeling the plate as a 3D solid
Creating CAM operations (Helix + Profile)
Exporting G-code for UGS
Milling the final part on the CNC and comparing it to the original
Whether you’re fixing broken items, restoring old equipment, or learning how to model from photos, this guide gives you a simple, repeatable workflow that works for any flat part.
For perfect results on uneven boards, check out my tutorial on 3D probing and surface mapping in UGS, where I scan a surface, convert it to a solid in FreeCAD, and adapt the toolpath to follow real material height: • Universal G-Code Sender: Mapping The Stock...
If you want deeper or cleaner pockets, my Pocket / Helix Toolpath Tutorial explains optimized strategies for clearing cavities and cutting holes in FreeCAD CAM: • CNC Pockets – Cut Holes & Cavities in Free...
To speed up face selection for pockets and profiles, try the free macro from “5 Time-Saving FreeCAD Macros I Always Needed”, which automatically selects all faces at the same height: • 5 Time-Saving FreeCAD Macros I Always Need...
00:00 Modelling, Generating G-codes and Milling a Replacement Part from a Photo
00:16 How to photograph the part correctly for accurate modeling and CNC milling
00:39 Importing the photo into FreeCAD
01:46 Calibrating and scaling the image to real dimensions
02:30 Tracing the outline in a sketch to match the plate shape
04:43 Refining and adjusting the sketch for accuracy
06:15 Adding and dimensioning the holes in the sketch
07:10 Moving the image to avoid overlapping the sketch
07:21 Generating the 3D model from the completed sketch
07:31 Creating a new CNC job (template, origin, toolbit setup)
08:27 Rotating the model in the CAM Job to align with the X-axis
09:13 Creating a Helix operation for cutting the circular holes
09:50 Creating a Profile operation for cutting the outer contour
10:10 Exporting the G-code into separate files
11:04 Milling the replacement plate on the CNC using UGS
11:30 Final result and comparison with the original plate
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