Electronic Cutters

Tutorial: How to Print and Cut with Silhouette

What You’ll Learn

Set up and execute a precise print-and-cut workflow using Silhouette Studio and your Silhouette Cutter — from page setup to final cut.

What You’ll Need

  • Silhouette Cameo or Portrait Cutter
  • Silhouette Studio software
  • Inkjet printer
  • Sticker paper or printable media
  • Cutting mat (optional)
  • Registration marks enabled
  • (Optional) Teflon sheet or parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Open Silhouette Studio Launch the software and create a new document.
  2. Set Up Your Page
    • Open the Page Setup Panel (top right)
    • Machine: Silhouette Cameo
    • Cutting Mat: Auto or None
    • Media Size: A4 or 12″×12″
    • Orientation: Portrait or Landscape as needed
  3. Enable Registration Marks
    • In Page Setup Panel, click “Registration Marks”
    • Use default Type 1 settings
    • Ensure marks are visible and not obstructed
  4. Print Page Setup
    • Go to File → Print Page Setup
    • Page Size: A4
    • Fit to Page: Off / None
    • Scale: 100%
    • Confirm printer preferences match these settings
  5. Add Your Artwork
    • Insert images or designs onto the canvas
    • Keep artwork inside the red cut border
    • Avoid placing designs in the cross-hatch zones (registration fail risk)
  6. Print Your Sheet
    • Use your inkjet printer
    • Double-check page size and scale settings
    • Print with registration marks visible
  7. Go to the Send Screen
    • Click “Send” in Silhouette Studio
    • Select material type (e.g., Sticker Paper)
    • Confirm cut lines are active (highlighted red)
  8. Load Your Media
    • Load printed sheet into cutter
    • Without cutting mat (if supported) or with mat if needed
    • Align properly for registration scan
  9. Send to Cut
    • Click “Send”
    • Cutter will scan registration marks to align cuts
    • Do not adjust artwork after printing — this disrupts alignment
  10. Key Tips for Success
    • Always enable registration marks before printing
    • Avoid placing designs in cross-hatch zones
    • Double-check printer settings to prevent scaling errors
    • Use high-quality sticker paper for best results
    • Keep your cutter firmware and software updated