How to Use ChatGPT for CNC Design vectors and reliefs

In this video, I go over 4 powerful prompts I use with ChatGPT to create CNC-ready design elements — including clean vectors, technical line drawings, STL bas relief references, and height maps. These are the exact prompts I use in my design workflow, and now you can use them too.

Whether you’re carving signs, engraving artwork, or prepping for 3D reliefs, these ChatGPT prompts can help you create faster and with more creative control.

🧩 The 4 CNC Design Prompts I Use with ChatGPT
1. Vector Creation from Text
Create a bold black-and-white vector-style line drawing of [INSERT SUBJECT], designed for CNC carving or laser engraving. The image should be high contrast with clean, distinct lines and no gradients or shading. Emphasize strong silhouettes, clear separation between features, and minimal interior detail that preserves recognizable structure. Show the generated image first, then fully vectorize the entire image (not just the outline) into an SVG file including all interior shapes. Provide the image and a download link for the complete SVG vector trace.

2. Vector Creation from Photo
Create a precise, black-and-white technical line drawing of the subject in the attached photo. Do not trace the photo. Use it only as a visual reference and reproduce the subject manually with clean lines, correct structure, and accurate perspective. The entire subject must fit fully within the frame — no cropping of edges or parts. Zoom out if needed. The drawing should use bold, clean, consistent linework; avoid sketchy or artistic styles; and preserve the orientation and viewpoint of the photo. Accurately include structural and visual details without replicating shadows or noise. Preserve readable text and symmetry where applicable.

3. STL Creation from Image
A high-contrast black-and-white bas relief-style image of [SUBJECT], with intense overhead lighting to create bright highlights on raised surfaces and deep shadows in recessed areas. The subject should be isolated with no background, no text, and no outlines. The shading should simulate sculpted depth using smooth grayscale transitions. Use medium brightness for overall lighting. Designed for use as a reference texture image for generating a CNC bas relief height map.

4. Height Map Conversion
Use the attached image and convert it into a height map. Ensure the subject is isolated with no background. Brighter areas should be interpreted as raised, and darker areas as recessed. This height map will be used to generate a CNC-ready STL bas relief model.

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