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Homemade Vinyl Cutter

You can make your own vinyl cutter by modifying your CNC machine. A CNC machine uses computer numerical controls to automate cutting processes instead of using mechanical operation. Modifying a CNC machine for vinyl cutting is done by using a vinyl drag knife bit. This is a spring-loaded bit that is used to cut out any type of design.

Things You'll Need

Vinyl drag knife bit
Temporary spray adhesive
Double-sided tape

Instructions

- 1
  Enter the cutting instructions into the computer on your CNC machine. This is the same instructions for making a 2-D cut. Set the correct feed/speed rate.
- 2
  Secure the piece of vinyl such as a sign that you want to cut onto the spill board. You can do this using a temporary spray adhesive or double-sided tape.
- 3
  Position the vinyl drag knife bit into the collet on the mill of your CNC machine. Tighten the bit by using a chuck key. Adjust the vinyl drag knife bit to a height to ̶0;0 level.̶1;
- 4
  Run the instruction file on the CNC machine to begin making the cut. The vinyl drag knife bit cuts with a carbide knife that swivels as it is dragged around the design by the CNC machine.
- 5
  Repeat this process to make another cut into a piece of vinyl.

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