The Silhouette Cameo is a powerful electronic cutting machine that can make quick work of paper crafts and scrapbooking projects. But for the best results, there are a few items you should have on hand to get the most from your machine. One of these items is a cutting mat, and it’s important to know if you actually need one.
A cutting mat is a specially designed adhesive surface that helps keep your material in place while the Silhouette Cameo cuts. The mat also has measurements printed on it to help you accurately measure and align your material before cutting. This ensures that your design will be cut in the right spot and with the right size.
While having a cutting mat is recommended, it’s not always necessary. If you’re using cardstock or paper, you can usually get away without one. However, if you’re working with fabric or other materials that tend to slip around while being cut, then using a cutting mat is essential.
Another advantage of using a cutting mat is that it helps protect your Silhouette Cameo blade from wear and tear. When you use the machine without a mat, the blade comes into contact with whatever surface you’re working on, which can dull its edge more quickly than if it were protected by a cutting mat.
So do you have to use a cutting mat with your Silhouette Cameo?
The short answer is no — but having one does have its advantages. For most projects involving cardstock or paper, you won’t need one; however, if you plan on using fabric or other materials that slip around easily when cut, then it’s strongly recommended that you use one.
Conclusion:
Using a cutting mat with your Silhouette Cameo isn’t always necessary — but it does help protect both your design material and your machine’s blades from unnecessary wear-and-tear.
In addition, it helps ensure accurate cuts by keeping your design material in place as the machine works. Therefore, for most projects involving fabric or other slippery materials, it’s best to use a cutting mat for optimal results.