Vinyl cutting can be used to create sleek and solid graphics for the purpose of art or business. Vinyl cutter art is achieved by using a vinyl cutting machine, which can be purchased in some graphics/signs stores, crafts stores, or online. While there are many different brands of vinyl cutting machines, the majority of them are similarly designed. To begin making vinyl cutter art, you will need to own a vinyl cutter, purchase the vinyl material of choice, and have a graphic in mind.
Instructions
1. Set up your machine. The machine will need to be removed from the box. It is suggested in some user guides that two people handle machine to avoid injury or dropping. The legs will need to be screwed on, and the roll holder will need to be attached to the back. Make sure the cutter is placed on flat, firm surface. Turn the machine on.
2. Set up your material. Load the material through the roll holder. Make sure the material is straight, and pull the vinyl through the roller. Once the vinyl has been pulled through, manually adjust the width of the roller to the width of the vinyl.
3. Adjust the blade. Consult your user's manual on the particulars for setting the blade, because this step is unique for different brands of vinyl cutters. The blade will be adjusted to stick out from the holder as a very fine point.
4. Choose your graphic. Most vinyl cutters come with software, with which you can choose a graphic for the machine to cut out. If you cannot find a graphic you like on the software that came with your cutter, you can download free templates online or purchase additional graphics software designed for the vinyl cutter.
5. Start cutting your vinyl. Most user guides request that you do a test cut first to make sure your blade is set to the correct depth. If your vinyl cutter has a digital display screen, you will most likely have the option to choose "Sample Cut." If your sample cut fails to cut the vinyl, your blade is not set deep enough. Reset your blade and repeat the sample cut until the blade is set deep enough to cut through the vinyl.
6. Create your vinyl graphic cutout. Now that your sample cut is complete, and graphic has been chosen, you are ready to start your cutout process. Either your cutter will have a display screen with online ability, or it will need to be hooked up to your computer. Using your vinyl cutter software, send the graphic you have chosen to your cutter. When the file is sent to your cutter, your cutter will begin to cut the image out of your vinyl material.
