Vinyl cutting has proved to be a creative and versatile process that comes with a large number of applications. Whether it is a t-shirt design, a car decal, a sign, or a sticker, small business owners use it for a number of purposes. Although it was a costly industrial process that needed heavy machinery, the technology has advanced, and now we are able to find vinyl cutters that are smaller in size and easy to use.
It might be easy for you to buy a vinyl cutter of your choice from some of the top suppliers like Flex Cutter, but you still need to have a good deal of knowledge when you are starting to use the vinyl cutter. The following are a few points that you have to keep in mind when buying a new vinyl cutter.
Intended Use of the Vinyl Cutter
Whether you have a small business or a commercial production company, you first need to consider the purpose of using your vinyl cutter before buying one. This way, you will be able to select the right type and model of vinyl cutter that can suit your needs.
Type of Vinyl Cutter
There are several different designs of vinyl cutters out there in the market, and these are targeted towards numerous scales of usage. The three significant vinyl cutting machine designs are:
- Flatbed vinyl cutters
- Roll feed vinyl cutters
- Desktop vinyl cutters
You can go for a roll feed cutter if you want a vinyl cutter with a stand. This type of cutter works with a roll of material and needs feeding a roll. As they support a long roll of material, you can have quick and more significant production, making it an ideal choice for your business.
Vinyl Cutter Settings
When you buy a new vinyl cutter, the first test cut will give you an idea of the main settings before you begin your personal projects. If the cut is successful, then it means that you can remove any excess parts of the vinyl in a smooth manner. A successful cut combines the cutting speed, pressure setting, length of the blade, and the type of vinyl.
Blade
At the start, you need to notice that the blade of your vinyl cutter should stay in the holder at most half the credit card thickness. It is essential that it matches the thickness of the material that you intend to cut.
Placement
You can place your vinyl in any correct location; you have to keep in mind that there are two pinch rollers down on it and more rollers to increase stability. The origin point of the cutter can be used to begin cutting from any location. With the help of the arrows, you can move the vinyl in and out, which can help you check any problems with the angles, and therefore, you can get a chance to make things right.
Test Cut
After configuring everything, the next step is to make your first cut. By clicking the test button, you will know that the settings are smooth and proper. If everything is incorrect, you will be required to make adjustments. It includes adjusting the speed, pressure, and blade until the test cut becomes according to your needs.
Connecting to Computer & Installing Software
Your computer has a significant role to play with the vinyl cutter, as the cutter will do the jobs according to the commands sent by the software. Any potential cut issues will be reduced when the machine is connected properly. You need to connect the cutter to the printer cable. Keep in mind that the cutter is placed in such a location that it remains safe from tripping over the cables so that you can avoid any potential damage to the machine.
There is software out there in the market that you can use for the vinyl cutter. Sure Cuts A Lot Pro 3 or VinylMaster Cut are the most popular ones and are compatible with Windows 10 and Mac OS. The next step is installing the cut software's driver, and then it will be ready for the job.
Warranty and Support
If you live in a perfect world, you may not need a warranty, support, or a part placement, but your vinyl cutter may malfunction or have any issues right from the box. If you select a vinyl cutter that has a good warranty and support, it will not only give you peace of mind but also avoid any frustration of getting stuck with a bad product. It is always a good idea not to go for the used or out-of-production models as they are always challenging to maintain or service.
Final Words
There are many things for you to keep in mind when you buy a new vinyl cutter. Before you start using one, reading the complete beginner's guide is always a good idea. Other than that, you need to make proper vinyl cutter settings, connect it to your computer and look at its warranty. This way, you will be able to use it easily and get the desired results.