Silohuette Cameo 3 cutter

There does seem to be a learning curve with these things.  I have the Cricut and have had the same problems.

Hmmm.... from what I understand, they’re mainly used for cutting vinyl, cardstock, paper, fabric and other materials. I know folks use them to create masking templates. Most likely your blades have gone dull so quick because you’re trying to cut plastic sheets. I don’t think they’re really made to cut styrene sheets in my opinion based from what I’m reading up on the product. Maybe I’m wrong. Hopefully, somebody will chime in who knows more than I do.

The spec.s say max thickness 0.078 inches, but don't make it clear what the materials can be. Sign vinyl, pressure sensitive vinyl, that stuff is soft and thin.

I agree with BS (imagine) that you've just used up your blade. And that's a warning sign that the machine isn't up to the task.

Hi,

One of the things that I noticed when looking at these cutters previously is that the Crikut is said to be able to do a heavier downforce than the Silhouette machines, at least as of a year or so ago.  And as such some of the sites/reviews that I lloked at suggested that while the Crikut machines could cut thin styrene the Silhouette machines were more limited.

However, it should be noted that I was looking at the more low end models, and so I don't know if that necessarily applies to your machine.  

As such, I would do so research on the internet, especially boards related to using those type machines, and see what others say there.  It may be possible that your machine may not be recommended for cutting plastic do to an inability of the machine to provide enough downforce while cutting.

Regards

Pat

I believe both brands claim to be able to cut thin wood and plastic.  I believe the Silhouette even sells a special blade for some materials.  One problem with my Cricut is that it was an older model, with different depth setting method.  I sometimes wonder if I should give up on it and get the newest model, but I am not ready to trash it yet.

Both the Silhouette and the Cricut don't specific state that they cut plastic. I've been researching this for a while and I did find this video:

https://www.google.com/search?q=how+to+cut+plastic+with+silhouette+cameo&rlz=1C1GCEU_enUS821US821&oq=how+to+cut+plastic+with+a+sil&aqs=chrome.1.69i57j0l2.9261j0j8&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#kpvalbx=1

So far, I'm leaning towards a Cricut Maker, since it's cabale of thicker cuts.

Hope this helps.