Many DIY enthusiasts and crafters all over the world use Silhouette machines for cutting, stamping, and even 3D printing. It’s because they bring efficiency and quality results to them. If it’s your first time hearing about Silhouette machines, it is an electronic cutting machine that you can connect to your computer. It looks similar to a small printer, and it also comes with software that allows you to create anything and cut it out one paper, fabric, vinyl, or heat transfer materials. It means that when you own a Silhouette machine, the possibilities are endless.
If you are into making different crafts or you want to make your hobby a business to earn extra money, then having a Silhouette machine can help you. If you are looking into buying one right now, do not hesitate. It’s because there are many different Silhouette machines you can choose from in the market. If you need more information about these machines before buying one, we’re here to help you. Today, we are giving you the ultimate guide to Silhouette machines.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Silhouette Machine
When buying a Silhouette machine, you need to think about your needs. This way, you’ll be able to choose one that offers the best features that will be most useful to you. If you are not familiar with Silhouette machines yet, there’s a lot you need to know before buying one. To help you, here are some of the important things you need to consider:
Job Type
Silhouette machines come in different types, and they differ in terms of their output, but they are most commonly used for cutting designs onto different materials. There are also some that produce 3D prints, and they are different in design, too. Aside from that, there are also Silhouette machines that can be used for stamp making. It is the smallest among the different types of Silhouette machines because it only creates stamp size cuttings and design. Therefore, before buying a Silhouette machine, you need to be sure about the purpose of getting one.
Weight and Dimensions
It is also important to check the weight and dimensions of the Silhouette machine you will be buying. It’s because these factors affect where you will place it, and as well as the size of the materials it can handle.
Computer Requirements
One of the great things about Silhouette machines is that you do not need to have high-end computers for them. However, there are a few requirements that most Silhouette machines need. Some of them include at least 1GB of RAM, from Windows 7 to the latest one for the PC, and OS X10.7 or higher for the MAC. It is also necessary to have a USB 1.1 port or faster in addition to at least 2GB of space on your hard drive. And lastly, the processor speed of your computer should be at least 2GHz. Most of the modern computers today fit these requirements. Therefore, you don’t need to worry about needing to buy a new computer for it.
Software
Since it will be linked to the computer, it will also require installing software for optimum usability. There are many different software depending on the type of Silhouette machine that you will buy. Therefore, you need to have this information before buying a Silhouette machine to know if the software will be compatible with your computer.
Materials
It is also important to check the materials that the Silhouette machine you want uses. For example, if you have a project in mind and it requires the use of a specific material, you can check if the Silhouette machine you are aiming to get can accommodate that type of material.
Bundles
You can also check all the things included in the package when you buy a Silhouette machine. Some models include filament rolls that can help in making the building blocks for the first few designs you will be making. Some machines, on the other hand, come with software and a few free designs to get you started.
Aside from all of these important factors, it is also essential for you to check the warranty of the Silhouette machine. You can also check other features, such as Bluetooth support, the clearance for thicker materials, and other things that may add value to the machine.