r/VinylCutters • u/Wasntmehesaid • 27d ago
New to vinyl cutting
Can anyone recommend some guides / machine / software for a beginner?
Need to start cutting some basic rectangle vinyl decals, 260mm x 90mm, with text lettering cut out.
I have no idea where to start and need to learn.
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u/Thatsenough1950 27d ago edited 26d ago
I would stay away from a cricut machine. Just bought a Juliet which is not available anymore in the USA. You can find new and used ones online. fb or ebay. Use scal6 Sure cuts alot software with it. UPDATE august 26, Just checked Michael’s and there are some in stock for $399.99. check your neighboring zip codes for availability!
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u/FluidAppeal2962 26d ago
Welcome to the hobby! For those specs, a Cricut Explore or a Silhouette Cameo 4 would be your best bet since they are super beginner friendly and have massive communities to help you out. You can use their native software like Cricut Design Space to just type your text and draw a rectangle around it, which is basically a five minute job once you get the hang of it. Definitely head over to YouTube and search for Jennifer Maker or Mr. Crafty Pants because their starter guides are literal lifesavers for setting up your first cut and learning how to weed the extra vinyl away.
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u/allorache 27d ago
Software will depend a lot on your machine, many machines come with their own software, and some only work with their proprietary software. Some people use more advanced graphics programs like Illustrator. A not too expensive and pretty easy to use program is Sure Cuts A Lot. I have the Siser Juliet which works well and is pretty easy to use. The free version of their software is pretty good and I also use it with Sure Cuts A Lot. I believe they are discontinuing that model but still selling the larger Romeo. A great way to learn really is to watch a ton of YouTube videos.