The Ultimate CNC Programming Patterns Atlas — Every Drilling, Pocketing, Slotting, Engraving and Machining Pattern Explained

Welcome to the CNC Programming Patterns Atlas.

Most CNC programs are built from reusable machining patterns.

Understanding these patterns allows programmers to create faster, cleaner, and more efficient programs.

This atlas documents the most common CNC machining patterns used in production environments.

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SECTION 1 — DRILLING PATTERNS
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Single Hole

Linear Hole Array

Grid Pattern

Bolt Circle Pattern

Radial Pattern

Applications

Fixtures

Flanges

Machine Components

Production Parts

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SECTION 2 — POCKETING PATTERNS
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Rectangular Pocket

Circular Pocket

Open Pocket

Deep Pocket

Multi-Level Pocket

Applications

Molds

Fixtures

General Machining

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SECTION 3 — SLOTTING PATTERNS
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Straight Slot

Keyway Slot

Curved Slot

T-Slot

Multiple Parallel Slots

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SECTION 4 — CONTOURING PATTERNS
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Outside Profile

Inside Profile

Multi-Step Profile

Complex Geometry

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SECTION 5 — ENGRAVING PATTERNS
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Text Engraving

Serial Numbers

Logos

Part Identification

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SECTION 6 — THREADING PATTERNS
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Internal Threads

External Threads

Thread Milling

Rigid Tapping

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SECTION 7 — PRODUCTION PATTERNS
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Repeat Machining

Subprogram Patterns

Macro Patterns

Family Of Parts Programming

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SECTION 8 — AUTOMATION PATTERNS
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Variable Driven Programs

Adaptive Machining

Automatic Hole Generation

Pattern Calculations

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FINAL PRINCIPLE

The best CNC programmers do not write every line from scratch.

They master machining patterns and reuse proven programming structures to improve efficiency, consistency, and reliability.