Order of operations????

[bmf572]

So when cutting a design that uses 2+ bits, one being a 1/4" endmill for the clearing stage, is it best to perform the clearing part first or is it better to do the outline with the smaller bit (1/8" ball end bit). I'm using a pre-painted wood sign and am experiencing some chipping/tear out around the edges of the design. I've been doing the clearing first then moving onto the fine finish.

[btreichel]

You rough and then you finish. My first bet would be crappy wood. After that feed and speed, or worn bits.

[bmf572]

Ok so I was doing it that order and was beginning to suspect feed/speed. I think I'm gonna slow both down a bit and see what I get.

Also, just out of curiosity, I'm having an issue with shallow cuts at one part of a piece of wood while at another point on the same piece the cut is at the correct depth. The wood is flat all throughout the entire piece and the thickness is also equal throughout too. The bed is also flat and not flexing. Any ideas?

[btreichel]

Something isn't. I'll resurface my spoilboard with a surfacing bit set to 0.01, or even 1/2 of that; making sure its cuts everywhere. Then I like to skim a little bit off of my piece before I start working. Then I know its flat and aligned to itself.