Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: 1. What is Vector Art 3D?

Vector Art 3D is setup to provide resources for people who want to carve decorative relief style models with a CNC machine. The main resource we provide is high quality relief style models for purchase and download. These computer models can be used in many different software packages to create the "toolpaths" to carve that item on the CNC.

As well as models we also have free software to help view the designs before purchase and a program for creating the toolpaths if you do not already have software that can do that. We also have a service for custom modeling if you cannot find what you need from our extensive library of models.

Q: 2. How do I know your models will work with my CNC?

If you have exsting 3D capable software you can try our test models with that or you can download our free Vector Art 3D Machinist to try that with your CNC. You can watch a video on this process or read more about it on our Testing Compatibility Page.

Q: 3. How do I make sure the model is what I need before I buy it?

We only want you to buy models you are sure are suitable for your particular project. So we have an option to view our models before purchase using our Free Viewer. We also offer 2D eps outlines for download to aid with integration into a project layout. You can watch a video and read more about these features on our Before You Buy Page.

Q: 4. How do I purchase a model?

A model can be bought as an individual download or can be combined with other models and styles to get discounts. Some models are also available in our great value disk collections. You can watch a video and read more about all these options and receiving your order on our Making Your Purchase page.

Q: 5. What do I do if there is a problem with my order?

If you cannot place an order then please email info@vectorart3d.com with details of your problem.

If you cannot download an order you placed then please read the Download Trouble Shooting Page. If this does not resolve your issue then please email support@vectorart3d.com with information on the problem. 

Q: 6. Can I change the file format after I purchase?

Yes you can change your order to any of our other file formats at no charge. You can watch a video or read more about the process to change file formats in the "Access to Previously Purchased Files" section of our After Sales Resources Page.

Q: 7. Can I change the Model Style after I purchase?

You cannot change the model style (Regular, Dished, Recessed) after purchase so you should always make sure to choose the correct one or all three otherwise you would need to make a new purchase.

Q: 8. What do I do if the file won't open in my software?

You first need to make sure your file/s were correctly downloaded and has been unzipped if it was in a zip file. If you are not sure about this then review the Download Trouble Shooting Page.

Do not double click a file to try and open it - Windows may not have the correct program associated with the file you downloaded or it may not be able to directly open the file using a double click but require the software you want to use to be first started and then the file to be imported.

For Vector Art 3D Machinist you first start the software then use the File Open option to load a V3M file.

For Cut3D and PartWorks 3D then you first start the software then use the File Open option to load either a V3M for STL format file.

For Aspire you need to open a new file then use the "Import 3D Model or Component" option - you can watch this process in our Import Model Tutorial for Aspire.

For ArtCAM - depending on the version you may be able to Open a RLF file or you may need to first create a new part then use the "Relief - Load - Paste" opton to import it. You can watch a video here on Importing a relief into ArtCAM Pro.

For all other software that is able to load an STL file you will first need to start the program and create a new part/job. Then you will most likely use an Import command to load the STL model. We would recommend you review the help material or call your software company if you are not sure how to import an STL file into your particular program. We do have a video showing how to import an STL file into Alphacam and also one showing how to import it into EnRoute Pro.

Q: 9. How do I access my previous purchases?

You can access your previous Downloaded models through the "VIew purchase history/download files" option on the Returning Customer page (when you login to your account). You can watch a video or read more about this in the "Access to Previously Purchased Files" section of our After Sales Resources Page.