How to Use a Vinyl Cutter
Vinyl cutters are used to transform self-adhesive vinyl into cut-out letters, shapes, borders and graphic designs for signage use. Controlled by a computer, the use and operation of a vinyl cutter is very similar to a standard desktop printer. Designs are created using graphic arts software, sent to cutting software for formatting, and finally to the cutter. Vinyl cutters come in many sizes, from small desktop units to 60 inches or more, and are fully automated except for the loading of vinyl material.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Flip the locking mechanisms to the "up" position to disengage the two pinch rollers, and slide them so they are evenly spaced across the width of the material you will use. Position them above the drive shaft openings below. These are placed at intervals to accommodate different material widths.
-
2
Place the roll or sheet material onto the material holding rollers, called "media rollers," in the back of the machine, with the material side facing up (backing sheet down). Feed the leading edge of the material into the machine until the edge reaches the front guide mark.
-
-
3
Move the side guide (if installed) to make light contact with the free side of the vinyl, making sure the guide does not buckle the material.
-
4
Flip the lever to the "down" position to lock the pinch rollers. The pinch rollers are spring-loaded, and do not require adjustment.
-
5
Press the "Test" button on the cutter's control panel and inspect the cut. Ideally, the cut should go through the vinyl, but not through the backing sheet, allowing the vinyl square to be removed easily.
-
6
Adjust the blade pressure, if needed, by turning the adjustment knob on the blade housing, and performing another test cut until proper blade pressure is reached.
-
7
Send the computer graphic file to the cutter by pressing the "Print" or "Cut" button on the job screen. The cutter will go through a diagnostic test before beginning the cutting job, much like a desktop printer.
-
8
Remove the finished vinyl from the machine by pressing the "cut" or "trim" button on the cutter's control panel.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Follow manufacturer's recommendations for specific loading and adjustment procedures, as some machines are slightly different.
Always stay within earshot of the machine to listen for operation. If the machine stops prematurely, a jam is probably the cause.
Avoid hand and finger contact with the cutting blade, and never stick your hands into the machine while it is running.
Press the "Pause" button on the control panel before clearing jams or making adjustments after the job has started..
