MADE WITH MASSO Date: 28 Jan 2026
Made with MASSO: Meet Dave Gatton
For our August MASSO Makers feature, we’re shining the spotlight on Dave Gatton — a long-time CNC maker whose passion for building, learning, and sharing knowledge perfectly captures what the MASSO community is all about.
From Industry to DIY CNC
Dave brings over 30 years of experience working in sheet metal fabrication shops, designing parts in SolidWorks and programming CNC machines for production environments. About 20 years ago, he set his sights on starting a side hustle of his own — but at the time, CNC machines were simply out of reach financially.
So he did what makers do best… he built his own.
That decision sparked a journey that’s seen Dave designing and building CNC machines ever since, right from his own workshop.
Making (Almost) Everything
Then it comes to projects, Dave doesn’t like to limit himself.
From end-grain cutting boards with custom inlays to practical shop essentials like jigs, fixtures, and finger-joint drawers, Dave finds just as much satisfaction in functional builds as he does in decorative ones.
And when asked to name his favourite project?
“I usually like the latest project better than the one before.”
A true maker mindset.
Powered by MASSO
Dave credits his MASSO G2 controller with taking his CNC capabilities to the next level.
What stands out most for him is how accessible professional-grade CNC control has become:
“It’s so cool that an ‘average Joe’ like me can have this amazing technology in their garage running a DIY CNC machine that is rock solid.”
He also highlights one of MASSO’s biggest advantages — being a self contained, PC-less controller that boots fast and just works.
No worrying about sleep settings. No mid-job interruptions. Just reliable CNC control.
Upgrading to MASSO G3 Touch
As part of winning MASSO Makers, Dave will be upgrading to the MASSO G3 Touch, and he already knows what he’s most excited about.
Top of the list?
- The integrated touchscreen, eliminating the need for keyboards and mice
- The expanded tool library, allowing far more tools than the G2’s 32-tool limit
And while Dave has no shortage of future projects planned, he jokes that the list might be longer than his lifetime — especially since he keeps adding to it
Advice for New Makers
Dave has one message he’s repeated many times over the years — and it’s advice every new CNC owner should hear:
“This CNC stuff is not rocket science. Anyone that applies themselves can run a CNC and have a lot of fun doing it.”
Mistakes are part of the process. The key is learning from them and continuing to build confidence with every project.
A Growing CNC Community
Looking ahead, Dave believes there’s never been a better time to get into CNC. With more affordable, high-quality machines available and strong support behind them, CNC technology is opening doors for more makers than ever before.
And being part of the MASSO Makers community?
“It’s a good feeling being part of a growing community that’s based around a time-tested product that simply works.”
Dave also gives a special shout-out to Peter Passuello, whose shared knowledge and willingness to help others has had a lasting impact on his CNC journey.
Congratulations again to Dave Gatton, our August MASSO Makers winner.
We can’t wait to see what he creates next with MASSO G3 Touch.
For more from MASSO, see what’s new at masso.com.au or email us on newsletter@masso.com.au
MASSO CNC Australia, Ingleburn, NSW, 2565, Australia, masso.com.au
