Cutting Machines Overview
The Makery has three machines for cutting shapes out of flat materials: the Cricut Cutting Machine, the Cutter/Plotter (“Vinyl Cutter”), and the Laser Cutter.
The Cricut Maker Cutting Machine is perfect for smaller projects. It can draw on and cut through a variety of materials including paper, fabric, thin leather, even thin balsa wood. We have a variety of blade types for the machine, as well as ink pens of many colors, including fabric pens.
The Graphtec Cutter Plotter (“Vinyl Cutter”) is set up to cut adhesive-backed and heat-transfer (“iron-on”) vinyl but can also be used with a pen holder to plot large diagrams (like blueprints.)
Both machines can be used to create adhesive-backed vinyl signs and stickers, painting stencils, and iron-on t-shirt vinyl. The Graphtec cutter / plotter is up to seven times faster than the Cricut and is also more precise and capable of much larger projects.
The Glowforge Laser Cutter can cut, engrave, and score a variety of flat materials of up to 11″ x 19.5″ in width and length, and up to 2″ thick. We supply sheets of plywood, acrylic, and leather for your use. Outside materials are allowed only following a review process by makerspace management.
For each of our cutting machines, if you haven’t used Adobe Illustrator before, expect to spend at least an hour learning how to complete some basic tasks with it before working with the machine. As always, assistance and materials are provided by Makery staff. Additionally, we regularly hold workshops on how to use Adobe Illustrator.
Safety Considerations
Safety is the number priority while operating equipment in the makerspace.
Both the Cricut and the Graphtec machines have moving parts and sharp blades. Caution is advised both during setup and while the machine is in operation. Be sure to keep all clothing and body parts away from the machines while they are in operation.
Similarly, many of the tools used to process or weed the cut designs (such as dental picks, tweezers, and scissors) can be dangerous if used improperly. Always use care when handling and keep any sharp edges pointed away from your body.
The Glowforge Plus will only operate with the lid closed. This is to prevent both permanent blindness caused by the laser, as well as respiratory damage caused by fumes and smoke produced by the cutting process. Do not attempt to override this feature. Avoid breathing in any smoke, dust, or debris which may cause respiratory issues; it is advisable to give the machine a few moments after the cut is finished to allow time for all loose particles to settle. Always use the attached air filtration system while the machine is in use.
If a piece of material comes loose or catches on fire while the laser cutter is in operation, DO NOT open the machine lid or attempt to fix or adjust it. Consult with our staff for help.