How to Make a Whiskey Smoker Using the Tormach xsTECH CNC Desktop Router

Creating a custom whiskey smoker is a rewarding CNC project that blends woodworking, machining, and creativity. Using Tormach’s xsTECH desktop CNC router, this three-part video series walks you through the complete process, from stock prep to final assembly. Whether you’re building one for yourself or crafting gifts for friends, this project showcases the xsTECH’s precision and versatility in a compact classroom-safe package.

Prepping and Facing Your Material

The project begins by preparing a piece of hardwood, such as maple or walnut. Accurate dimensions and flat surfaces are essential for a clean final product. The first step on the xsTECH involves facing the stock using a spiral toolpath. A four-flute end mill is used to skim 1 mm off the top surface, ensuring a smooth, even plane to begin the project.

Toolpaths are generated with PathPilot’s conversational programming, allowing users to easily define parameters like start and end points, stepovers, and depth of cut. With a feed rate of 600-700 mm/min, the xsTECH handles facing operations quickly and cleanly.

Machining the Base and Smoke Chamber

Once the stock is prepped, the next step is machining the whiskey glass base. This includes several pockets and profiles: one for the glass to sit snugly and another deeper pocket for the smoke chamber. By measuring your glassware carefully, you can ensure a tight fit. A 92 mm outer profile and a 50.5 mm inner recess are machined using circular pocket paths, while a deeper 30 mm pocket accommodates wood shavings to generate smoke.

PathPilot’s conversational editor makes it easy to modify depth of cut, diameter, and spindle speed without external CAM software. Throughout this process, the user switches between different tools and optimizes feeds and speeds to maintain spindle performance and cut quality.

Flipping the Work and Finishing the Lid

After completing the top of the whiskey smoker, the workpiece is flipped and secured in a custom-made compression jig. The underside is faced, and a matching recess is machined for the smoker lid. This two-part construction ensures the lid fits securely over the base. Circular pockets are cut at 93 mm and 50.5 mm diameters to hold a stainless steel strainer.

To finish, the lid is profiled, separated from the stock, and engraved using a small V-bit. This adds a personal touch or branding to the final product. The xsTECH makes it simple to switch from machining to engraving without complex setup changes.

A Fun and Functional CNC Project

This whiskey smoker is more than a great woodworking project; it’s an opportunity to explore advanced toolpaths, creative workholding, and dual-sided machining. With the xsTECH’s approachable controls and compact size, it’s ideal for small shops, classrooms, and hobbyists looking to turn simple stock into custom gifts. Watch the full three-part series to follow along and make your own.