It is simple, right? Put the blade in the machine and watch it cut your vinyl to perfection.
Except . . . it is not.
There are several types of vinyl cutter blades to choose from, each with its own distinct advantages depending on your project. Then there is the need to understand the impact of degrees, offset values, and brands.
Suddenly, your project seems a bit more exhausting.
Do not let this information weigh you down. In this article, we will cover all the different types of vinyl cutter blades so that you will find the perfect one for you and your project.
What Do I Need to Know Beforehand?
Advances in chemistry led us to vinyl, and it is too much fun to ignore. A vinyl cutter’s uses run the gambit, ranging from t-shirts to magnets to lettering.
Finding blades for vinyl cutters involves some technical jargon that might scare beginners. However, once you understand the terms, you will be well on your way to cutting greatness.
What Are Degrees?
The degree refers to the angle of the blade’s tip.
The degree of your blade is important. It determines how the blade will cut and what projects it is best for. Most stores sell 45- and 60-degree blades.
The 45-degree blade is considered the standard blade.
What Is the Offset Value?
Next is the offset value. The blade offset refers to the distance between the blade’s center and the tip.
This offset value ensures your machine takes the blade into account when cutting so that it does not accidentally cut into your design. Always pay attention to a manufacturer’s offset for your blade, as the value changes depending on the blade type.
Can I Mix Brands?
Unfortunately, most blades are not universal. To ensure you purchase the correct blade for your machine, check its manual.
Most customers will have to purchase blades by the same manufacturer who made the machine.
What Are the Types of Vinyl Cutter Blades and Which Do I Need?
There are many types of vinyl cutter blades with varying degrees. There are even additional blades designed for pressure-sensitive materials. However, the most popular blades are standard, detail, and thick-material blades.
1. Standard Blade
The standard 45-degree blade offers a wide variety of uses and is especially convenient for heat transfers.
This blade is optimal for normal-sized graphics and typical vinyl. Use it on vinyl with a thickness ranging from two to six millimeters.
2. Detail Blade
The detail blade is for smaller and more precise work, such as small lettering and intricate designs. This blade offers a tip at 25 to 30 degrees.
Unless you have very small, detailed parts or extremely thin material between zero and two millimeters, a standard 45-degree blade will most likely do the trick.
3. Thick Blade
The thick blade is a 60-degree blade. It is used to cut with precision. This blade is optimal for thicker materials, such as flock, or vinyl that is textured, such as glitter-covered vinyl.
If the material is over five or six millimeters or extremely textured, use a 60-degree blade.
Many cutters keep both a 45- and 60-degree blade on hand so that they have a wide range of creative freedom in their works.
Cut Away Your Creative Blocks
Do not let the terms and numbers frighten you. Choosing vinyl cutter blades for your plotter and cutter is not difficult.
Consider your material’s thickness and texture, the required offset value, and the brand, then your machine will be cutting like mad in no time.
We like to make the decision even easier for you. Check out our Econo-cut plotter blades, which are designed with the quality you need and a price you can afford.
Affordable and precise? That is what we call the right blade.
Simple Solutions International offers a full selection of plotter blades and plotter pens as well as a variety of useful tools for use in plotting and sign making such as plotter adapters, masking film, spray mask, and other sign making tools and accessories.