If your piece is mangled, then your force is probably too high (or the blade might be dull). If you cannot separate your material from its backing, then your force is too low.The hardware force slider and force settings in cad.py need to be adjusted togteher. I have found that the far more important of these two variables is force.
![how to use a vinyl cutter how to use a vinyl cutter](https://www.jinlantrade.com/ebay/KZJ1350JCK0000001/a100-1-vinyl-cutter.jpg)
Don't worry, you can do it, but take your time - note that most likely you will use the settings preselected by cad.py (force = 45, velocity = 2).
Click there, and the vinyl cutter will begin on your cutting job. When it's done, you will see a "send to machine" button. Wait a moment for cad.py to contour your png image.Set the desired force and velocity - most likely you will use the settings preselected by cad.py (force = 45, velocity = 2). Click on "output format" and select "camm" from the drop down menu.Your first screen will look something like this. Open cad.py - Open a shell and type "cad" or open it from the desktop icon.Next, select the right output device and do 1 contour.You can make any shape in cad.py you want to cut out. Sending the File Method One - cad.py file It might be necessary to prop up the cutter, if your copper piece is longer than 12" as it needs to remain bent (it does not flatten out completely when taken of the rool) otherwise it will crumple.Press and hold the origin button until the message appears in the display that origin is set. Use the arrow keys to get to where you want your origin to be (the origin will be the bottom left corner of the cam.py window).The machine will measure the width and length of your piece. Now there will probably be a message about sheet unloaded.Then put your piece under the rollers and use the lever to put the rollers down, holding the piece in place.Make sure the rollers coinside with the white markings so that they can catch the moving ridges. If the blade is in the way move it to the right.
![how to use a vinyl cutter how to use a vinyl cutter](https://craftsselection.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/vinyl-cutter-basic-guide.jpg)
Move the rollers by hand to where you will place the edges of your piece. Notice the white markings along the cutting area of the machine.Lift the rollers using the lever to the back left of the machine.This works better than feeding directly from the roll. Cut off a large piece of material from the roll.For Tricks and Tips after learning the basics try Here.