There are many variables to get right for a perfect cut to occur when working with heat transfer materials. It is always a good idea to run a test cut before cutting a design to make sure the type of blade, force, offset, and other variables are all optimal. The test cut allows the user to make sure the blade and force are properly calibrated to cut the material. To perform a test cut, make sure that your media is loaded properly and simply hit the “Test” button. The machine will then cut a small design; a circle with a box inside of it, and a cross inside of the box. If the blade and force are at the right settings, then the circle and cross can be weeded away, leaving just the box with the cross cut out of it. If the test cut weeds perfectly, then you are ready to cut your design!
Thinner Media = 45* Blade, Low Force, Low Offset
Thicker Media = 65* Blade, High Force, High Offset
Troubleshooting Common Problems:
Straight Edges Appear Rounded
If the edges are not sharp, then check the offset and the blade depth. If adjusting one or both of these variables does not solve the problem, then try a new blade- the current one has most likely become dull.
The Media is Peeling Up or the Carrier is Cut
If the media is peeling up or the carrier is cut, then most likely there is too much force or the offset may need to be higher. If decreasing the force and/or offset does not solve the problem, then make sure the blade depth is only 2mm.
The Media is not Cut
If the media does not appear to be cut, or multiple parts of the design pull up at the same time when weeding, then the force most likely needs to be increased or a new / different blade may need to be used. This happens because the pressure or dull blade is not enough to cut through the media.
