I am completely new to the CNC world and bought an MPCNC off FB marketplace. I understand the basic of CAD, CAM, G-code and how it all works together. But, I’m looking for some direction on design inside of Fusion 360 or input on what others use that is user friendly for someone just getting into using a CNC for the first time. I’ve found some videos on Youtube but, they just aren’t quite what I’m looking for. TIA.
What sort of projects are you interested in?
You do not always have to use CAD but the sort of things you want to make will guide us in the best software choice to get you started.
If you want a super simple getting started have a look at the test crown example.
And after the crown make sure you run through the milling basics and then the 2.5D milling. So many people have followed that project that it would be a great one to burn through some foam with as any issues that arise someone here will be able to help you understand what’s going on. I think this side panel project was probably the most valuable learning for me of all.
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(Welcome to the family by the way! You’re gonna love it here!)
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The learning curve for CAM in Fusion 360 is fairly steep. Based on posts on this forum, a majority of MPCNC users use Estlcam for CAM. Personally, I use Fusion 360. My perception is that Estlcam is a far easier tool for CAM, but Fusion 360 provides functionality not available in Estlcam.
If you haven’t already, you are going to need a Fusion 360 postprocessor to generate the g-code. Recent Fusion 360 changes broke the postprocessor we’ve been using for years, but Don has provided a new Beta version you can find here.
When I was where you are, this video by Even and Katelyn got my foot in the door. Note that Fusion 360 has been updated some since this video, so expect some things to be a bit different.
When I was trying to understand CNC concepts in general, I found Winston Moy’s channel helpful. Start with his early CNC videos and work forward. His later stuff is more sophisticated than I am with my projects. Eventually he went to work for Carbide3D (makers of the Shapeoko CNC). He still occasionally posts both personally and as part of Carbide3D.
As for projects, I suggest this progression for your first several steps.
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With a pen mount, run the premade g-code to draw the crown.
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In your CAD/CAM of choice, author a large rectangle (just under the working size of your machine). Draw the rectangle with your pen. Measure the diagonals of the rectangle to check the XY squareness of your machine.
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Author and draw an exact duplicate of the crown from scratch using the provided SVG file.
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Contour a small shape out of a piece of foam.
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Contour cut a shape out of plywood or MDF.
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Create a sign using a straight endmill. In addition to contour cuts, you want a project that pockets out material.
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Create a sign using a V-bit. Note you will need a well tuned machine in order to get consistent lettering.
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Or start with some nice tongues for grilling, that’s what I did because I didn’t read what you are supposed to do… 
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That is beautiful!
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