Do you have a love/hate relationship with your Silhouette Cameo?
If you answered, “yes,” then you are amongst the majority. I have received so many comments and e-mails from crafters who love what their Cameo is capable of doing, but hate the fact that it just doesn’t do it all the time!
But, alas, between blade problems and cutting mat problems, the Silhouette Cameo is making many of us wonder if we will ever see the full potential of this, otherwise, amazing cutting machine. So, after much research, I have compiled a list of the common Silhouette problems and potential solutions.
By the way, if you find this article helpful, or if you have other problems, solutions, experiences with your Silhouette Cameo (both good and bad), or crafting ideas that you would like to share, please leave me a comment and I will respond to you promptly. And now, here we go…
Silhouette Cameo: the most common problems and potential solutions
The Cutting Blade
PROBLEM: The blade works fine for a few days and then it just tears up the paper. Just about everyone who has written to me is having this problem. In addition to several days of on-line research, I have spoken, at length, with the tech support folks at Silhouette America and here are some potential solutions.
1. Clean the blade housing. Tiny bits of paper debris gets stuck around the blade, making it impossible to perform a clean cut. Use a sewing needle, piercing tool or a straight pin to clean any bits of paper from around the blade. Note: The blade is located inside the little hole in the white part of the blade housing (see photo above). Doing this regularly should keep the blade housing clear of any paper debris.
2. Defective blade? Silhouette America has had many, many issues with defective blades. If you have tried cleaning the blade housing and you are still not getting clean cuts, it is very possible that you have a defective blade. Call the Silhouette America support line, explain the problem and they will send you a new blade. (They have sent me two within the first month). The contact information follows at the end of this article. Important note: When replacing the blade in the Silhouette Cameo, just drop the whole new cartridge right in the machine and throw away the old one. That’s it, and Bob’s your uncle (actually, Bob’s my brother, but whatever)!
3. Your blade is worn out. If you had lots of great cuts with your blade and it starts tearing your paper or making sloppy cuts AND you have tried cleaning it, it could be that it’s just worn out and it’s time to buy a new blade. You can buy a new blade from Silhouette America for $12.95 USD or from Amazon.com for $16.95.
The Cutting Mat
PROBLEM: The cutting mat is too sticky.
Don’t worry, this problem won’t last long. Most of us find the mat is too sticky the first couple of times we use it, and then, before you know it, the darn thing is not sticky enough!
PROBLEM: The cutting mat is not sticky enough. This is a really common problem, but luckily, there are a number of good solutions for it.
1. Wipe your cutting mat regularly with baby wipes. For a quick cleaning method, many crafters are recommend using baby wipes to clean your cutting mat regularly.
2. Wash your cutting mat with warm water and dish soap. This is a more thorough cleaning method that gives your cutting mat a good, deep cleaning. Once you’ve washed it, rinse off any soap and dry it well. You should see a noticeable improvement in it’s sticking ability.
3. Spray your cutting mat with re-positionable glue. If washing your cutting mat doesn’t completely solve your problem, try spraying it with a re-positionable glue. The most popular brand among crafters seems to be KRYLON Easy-Tack repositionable adhesive. Note: The majority of articles, reviews and posts that I have read recommend NOT using Elmer’s Fast Tack Re-positionable glue.
You will probably be able to buy Krylon Easy-Tack at your favourite craft store or on-line scrapbooking store. You can also buy it at Amazon.com for $6.85.
PROBLEM: The cutting mat is slipping around during the cutting process.
1. Check the blue lever. On the right hand side, just in front of the roller bar, you will see a blue lever. Make sure this lever is pressed down and making contact with the mat. If the lever is in the “up” position, it will not be able to hold your mat in place and guide it through the machine during the cutting process.
2. Are the rollers on your cutting mat spaced properly? The rollers on the roller bar must be spaced properly to grip the edges of your cutting mat or other media. You can easily adjust the rollers by moving them along the roller bar.
3. Centre your cutting mat or other media directly under the rollers. Make sure your cutting mat or other media is position so that the rollers are directly over each edge.
CUTTING MAT TIP: To get more wear out of your cutting mat, turn it around and use the bottom half, too. So, instead of always putting the end with the arrow into the machine, turn it around and put the opposite end in (that means the arrow will be pointing toward you). This can really prolong the life of your cutting mat!
If, after trying these solutions, you are still having problems, it’s time to contact Silhouette America Support. I’ve talked with several of them and found them quite helpful.
Other Silhouette America Resources
Silhouette Studio User’s Manual
Silhouette Downloads, latest software and drivers.
Once again, if you found this article helpful, or if you have other problems, solutions, experiences with your Silhouette Cameo (both good and bad), or crafting ideas that you would like to share, please leave me a comment and I will respond to you promptly.
Thanks, crafters and good luck!
Today I moved my cameo from my office to another room and now it no longer powers ON !
I essentially moved it 20 feet away and plugged it in another outlet.
And yes, I know that this outlet is working. I plugged it back into the outlet I was using previously and it still does not turn ON. Has anyone experienced this?? I`m at a lost of what to do now.
Hi, GC,
I have had a lot of readers writing to me about power cord problems with their Cameos. Silhouette America will send you a new cord…which is better than nothing. I don’t know what’s going on with their cords–maybe a defective batch. When the Cameo first came out in 2011, the blades were defective, but that problem has been rectified. Let me know how it works out. Good luck!
Gloria
Hi, my cuts are cutting fully on the left but not cutting all the way through the card on the right side of the design. any idea why this is happening ???
Hi, Hannah,
I have never had this problem, and I’m not sure what’s causing it.
I am hoping that some of my readers will have a solution for us!
In the meantime, I will keep searching for a solution.
Gloria
I am having this exact same problem. I just cleaned my blade and bought a new one just in case. Let me know if you found a solution to this. Its so frustrating!
Hi there! I have learned so much from your site. Thank you! I finally broke down and bought the Silhouette Studio Designer Edition. I’m trying to cut a free SVG that I downloaded and my machine won’t cut it. When I click “cut page” the machine says “working” for about 1 second then it says “Cut was successful.” Any ideas?
Hi, Laura,
Sorry it took me so long to respond. I typically respond the same or next day, but we’ve been super busy around our house these days.
If you haven’t solved your problem, check cord from your Silhouette to your computer to be sure it is plugged in all the way. If that isn’t the problem, then reboot your computer…in fact, rebooting should always be your first trouble-shooting step–it is often all you need to do to solve a problem.
I hope you’re up and running!!
Gloria
My Silhouette Cameo does not read the registration marks. I’ve tried several times on two different projects and no luck. Is there an easy fix?
Thank you to anyone able to help .
Cindy
Hi, Cindy,
I have not heard of this problem, before. I will assume that you are using the “Detect registration marks automatically” feature…right? If so, and your Cameo is not reading them, you might want to try the basic trouble-shooting steps before contact Silhouette America support:
–close Silhouette Studio and turn off your computer–this allows the memory to clear so you can start fresh.
–now, turn your computer on and open Silhouette Studio
–and, finally, use the “Detect registration marks automatically” feature, again.
If this doesn’t fix your problem, then you should call Silhouette America for help.
I hope you get this worked out, quickly, so you can get back to crafting!! Please let me know how it goes, so I can share this info with other Cameo-owners.
Gloria
I’ll shut everything down. I may need to download Studio Designer again. I also sent a message to Silhouette and hope to hear from them the first of the week.
Appreciate your help and suggestions.
Problems with Silhouette Designer Studio!
When I try to import 1 paper to my library it doesn’t show up. You can read the name of the file, but the image doesn’t show up. It was working earlier tonight, but I have had this happen to me before. From day to day, it changes.
I am also adding .png files (elements) to my folders and they don’t show up. You can read the name of the file but no image.
This seems to be an ongoing problem.
What am I doing wrong??
Thanks for your help.
Help!!!!
Last week I purchased the designer edition and after downloading the silhouette studio to my laptop I can’t upgrate it.
I keep getting the same error:
SILHOUETTE STUDIO COULD CREATE A LICENSE FILE.
PLEASE ENSURE YOU HAVE WRITE ACCESS
I contacted silhouette support department and they help me a lot, we try to set library permission under advanced, I try running the program as an administrator but, after trying a couple of time apparently something on my computer is causing this problem.
At the end they could it help me and told me to take my laptop to a tec
My lap top have windows 7 can somebody help me? I will really appreciate any suggestions.
Pingback: Eek, Silhouette Cameo!
I’ve been using, designing and teaching with these machines since 2005, had three Craft Robots and never had any major problems. I got my Cameo last year and sometimes it can be really temperamental.
I love the Studio software and use the designer edition but lately there have been more glitches than good things! After one update it stopped recognizing the files so they fixed that – ; now after upgrading to the latest edition every so often it just refuses to open the program so have to reinstall and repair and then it works fine .. for a bit! Doesn’t do this with every update so probably when they put one thing right another goes wrong!
Mats: I have Cricut and Eclipse mats and I’ve had to cut them to size – if I use them for ordinary cuts where positioning is not important then no problem, if I use them for print and cut even though the machine recognises the registration marks it cuts 5mm out !! Same file, with a Silhouette or third party Silouette compatible mat it recognises the marks and .. cuts perfectly! Go figure. The whole idea of having registration marks is to tell the machine where to cut so if it’s recognised the marks why should it cut as it pleases is beyond me. On my machine at least you definitely have to respect how you feed the mat into the machine – the wider margin ( where the arrow is or opposite side) has to go into the machine first otherwise it won’t cut straight, how it knows I don’t know. Some weird and wonderful reasoning. As an ‘expert’ user I know all/most of the tricks and have no problems making the machine work but realise that for a newbie these things can be extremely frustrating! The latest thing today -as I design my own files I usually have no problems, but for a simple design such as two initials inside a circle it’s suddenly cutting all over the place and even the initials aren’t cutting well. Will have to speak sharply to it again I suppose – I hope it’s not getting ‘ beyond itself’ as up to now it’s worked well 95% of the time and wouldn’t ( couldn’t) be without it for my business.
I am so glad I found this site! So many useful tips! However, I have not found my problem on your site.
I got my Cameo just after Christmas and it has been working great!
All of a sudden (before the upgrade and after) I go to my library and double click on an image to put in a 3×4 and it fills with a pattern not the picture. When I try again, I get another pattern fill.
I am at a loss.
I just solved my problem! It was my mouse…. the right click button is going so I have to replace that.
It had nothing to do with my Cameo:)
Hi, Deb,
Oh, that’s such good news! It’s much easier to replace a mouse than a Cameo!!
Happy crafting!!
Gloria
Any solutions to the print & cut option? Printing isnt the problem, its the cut portion, the first few cuts are great then next thing I know, my circles have become ovals and
completely cut through my images. I also make sure my paper is firmly on the mat
before I start the cutting. I’m getting so frustrated, thank goodness I’m doing practice runs before I use my the actual card stock I bought for the project! Any advice will
be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Diep Silas
Hi, Diep,
I haven’t heard of anyone else having this exact problem, so I’m not sure what to tell you. I would recommend you call Silhouette America support to see if they have had any other complaints of this nature. Please let me know how it works out so we can pass it on to other Cameo owners.
Good luck!
Gloria
Hello,
I have been having problems with my Cameo, saying it would not connect, I tried everything from, changing the USB, Checking the power supply, uninstalling, reinstalling software, trying to set it up from another computer.
It turns out that If you have Windows 7 the driver which is required is not on the all the discs. This problem is very common if you have a UK machine.
All you need to resolve this problem is to go onto this website
http://www.graphtecgb.co.uk/support/
and download the “driver”.
The only reason I am leaving this information, is it too me 4 days to make sense out of it. I hope this helps someone : )
Happy Cutting!!!
Hi, Pai,
Thank you, so much, for passing on this information. I will pass it on to my readers. I’m sure it will save many others from the frustration you went through!!
Gloria
I used my Cameo today with no problems. Turned it off. Later I turned it back on and the blade cartridge moved to the left and instead of stopping it just kept hitting the left side(making an awful sound!). I unplugged it -waited, tried again – same thing. I checked to see if anything was stuck, and didn’t see anything. Help, please! Thanking you in advance!
Hi, Trish,
This sure sounds like a mechanical problem. My advice is to call the Silhouette America team. They might even send you a new Cameo.
Would you please let me know how it works out?
Good luck,
Gloria
My silhouette has recently stopped loading my cutting mat correctly. It doesn’t pull it all the way in, so when I go to cut part of the image is off of the top of the mat. I have tried using the arrows to bring the mat up a bit further, but then my machine doesn’t cut the last bit at the bottom. Is there a way I can re-calibrate my machine? It was working for a good while, I wonder if a setting got messed up. I have told the machine I am using a cutting mat and what medium I am cutting on, and my rollers are set to the 12 X 12 mat width. If you could give me some guidance I would greatly appreciate it.
Hi, Kim,
My first thought was to check that you are selecting “Load cutting mat” and not “Load media,” but you’ve already confirmed that you’re doing this. The basic steps in trouble-shooting are to close Silhouette Studio and turn off your computer. This will clear the memory and allow it to reset. You can go ahead and turn your computer right back on and open Silhouette Studio. You should be back on track and ready to have fun, again.
Let me know how it works out.
Gloria
Thank you so much for this advice never thought to look on the machine for loading mat or media been pulling my hair our for days and have waisted my cutting mats as the blade is coming off the end. Never mind new one on its way Once again thank you this site is great
When I have the image on my screen, sometimes I use the eraser to erase items I don’t want or parts of items I don’t want. It use to be that you had to reclick on it every time you let go of the mouse. Well now when I click on the eraser it won’t turn off to let me do anything else. When I click on other functions it still won’t go away.
Hi, Kristene,
It sounds like you have a software glitch. Here are the troubleshooting steps you could try:
– close Silhouette Studio, then re-open it and try your eraser tool, again. If it’s still giving you a problem, then…
– close Silhouette Studio and shut down your computer. Then, turn your computer back on and open Silhouette Studio. Try your eraser tool, again. If it’s still giving you a problem, then…
– check to see if you have the latest version of Silhouette Studio (2.7.6). You can find this out by click on “Help” in the top left corner of the screen, then click on “About Silhouette Studio.” You will see the version right in the middle of the box.
If none of these troubleshooting steps solve your problem, then call Silhouette America support and explain the issue to them. They should be able to help you out over the phone.
Let me know how it goes. Good luck!!
Gloria
Can I use my cricket mat in the Cameo?
Hi, Donna,
Absolutely!! Some Cameo owners prefer the Cricut mats.
Gloria
)
Hello, I’m a newbie with the Silhouette, and I just bought a Silhouette Portrait. My problem is I can’t figure out how to cut patterned paper, or any other thin paper that’s not cardstock without it sticking completely to the mat? I read in one of the above post about the mat being “too sticky” at first, but how long do I have to wait for it to be just the right amount of “stickyness” for my thin papers not to get stuck. I’ve already wasted so many good patterned papers, and I’m ruining both my papers and the mat, with the papers getting stuck on it.
I know there must be a way to cut patterned paper, or printer paper without it sticking to the mat, but I can’t figure out how to do it. Also how do I get rid of the paper that is stuck on the mat? This is my second mat I’ve bought only to get more paper stuck on there, just a day after buying a new one.
Thanks for your help!
Hi, Carol,
There are some easy solutions to your sticky mat problem.
The mats do lose their stickiness after just a few uses. However, if you want to speed up the process, lay a piece of card stock on your cutting mat (even something like an old piece of cardboard from a cereal box will do), press it down and then pull it off. Do this a few times and your mat should be good to go. I must caution, however, that cutting thinner paper is always more difficult. Try setting your blade at 3, speed 3 and thickness 15. This should work fine.
To clean paper debris off of your cutting mat, you need a small plastic scraper. You can buy a tool kit that includes a scraper, a pick tool, etc. Mine is a Cricut tool kit that I bought at Walmart–Silhouette probably has one, too (they are both the same). You can also buy it at any craft store, like Michael’s or Hobby Lobby.
To keep your cutting mat in good shape and when it loses its stickiness, wash it with soap and water, rinse and let dry. It will be as good as new. Also, don’t worry about cuts and scratches on your cutting mat, it’s normal. Mine looks like it has been through a great war, but still works well.
I hope this helps. Good luck, Carol!!
Gloria
i just unboxed my cameo today, tried to cut some text. when i click (cut page) it gives me a message (cut was successful) but actually cutting nothing.
i tried clicking the test cut, it worked.
i’m frustrated, cant cut anything and i don’t know y
Hi, Mustafa,
You are the second person in the last two days to tell me about this problem. The other person went through every trouble-shooting step and still couldn’t get her Cameo to cut anything other than the test cut. She spoke with someone on the Silhouette support team and they are sending her a new blade. Personally, I don’t see how it can be a defective blade when it does the test cut with no problem. I’m sorry I don’t have a solution to this problem. I would recommend you call Silhouette America support and ask them to work through their trouble-shooting steps with you. I hope they can help you quickly so you can start having fun with your Cameo. Please let me know how it goes.
Good luck!!
Gloria
thank you for the response, machine worked nicely after that, i don’t how but it’s ok now
That’s wonderful, Mustafa! Thanks for the update.
Have fun with your new Cameo!!
Gloria
I just got my camero this week and when I try to cut a file the blade starts cutting about 1/2″ above where it is supposed to. I put a file at the top of
my mat and when the cutting started it was almost 1/2″ above the sticky part of the mat. I also tried to put a paper at 2″ (where the file was located on the screen and when it cut again it was way above where it should have been.
Is there an adjustment I can make so it cuts accurately?
Thanks, Donna
Hi, Donna,
Congratulations on getting a Cameo! Let`s see if we can solve your problem, together.
1) be sure you are selecting “Load Cutting Mat,” and not “Load Media.” You will see this setting when you put your mat into the Cameo.
2) if #1 doesn’t solve the problem, try closing Silhouette Studio and then open it, again (this is a basic trouble-shooting step).
3) if neither #1 nor #2 does the trick, the next trouble-shooting step is to close Silhouette Studio and shut down your computer. Then, turn your computer back on and open Silhouette Studio–this will clear the memory.
Give these a try and let me know how it goes.
Good luck!!
Gloria
Yea, it works like a charm! Didn’t know about that button
Thanks for your help!
My pleasure, entirely!!
Yay! Just read this…I figured it was the machine & nothing could be done & have been ‘guesstimating’ the difference….will make sure I click the right setting from now on…thanks girls…fab blog for checking out what I’m doing right/wrong:):)
Duh! I’ve been having this problem for a couple of days, went into preferences and adjusted a bunch of things, all to no avail. So glad I came across your blog. I changed my machine to ‘load media’ when I cut vinyl a while back and forgot to change it back. NO WONDER I couldn’t get the cut to align on the mat!! Thanks so much for your troubleshooting page. It’s a lifesaver.
Wanted to add that I’m bookmarking this page : )
Well, thank you very much!!!
I am always happy to help!! Enjoy your Cameo!!
Gloria
I just got my cameo this week and it works well except for one thing. It cuts about 3/8 inch too high. I put a paper at the top of the mat two times and the cut was made about 3/8 inch above the sticky mat. Then I placed a paper at the two inch mark down and it cut 3/8 inch above the paper. Is there a way to adjust this? Any help you can give me would be appareciated! I know I would probably have trouble with pring and cut also if I were to try it.
I bought my cameo about 1 week ago. I have noticed that when I cut an image out its not cutting the image all the way. When I go and peel off the access paper around the image, its very difficult. I am so stressed I do not know what to do? This machine is suppose to make my life easier, I need help. Someone please help, thanks in advance.
Hi, Desiree,
There may be a simple solution to your problem. When you are setting up to cut, you can choose what type of medium you are cutting (cardstock, vinyl, etc.)…while you are there select the Double Cut feature. That should solve your problem.
Also, it is always best to do th Test Cut…it only takes a minute and can save you a lot of frustration and prevent you from wasting good paper. The Test Cut makes a tiny cut in the extreme upper left corner. If it looks good, then proceed to cut your image. If not, adjust your blade or select The Double Cut feature.
Let me know how it turns out. Good luck!
Gloria
Hey sorry I took so long to reply. I already tired the different types of cardstock weight. I tried the double cut feature, I tried it all and I tried to test cut. When I do the test cut it cuts perfect, when I try to real think it does not cut the image properly or all the way through. I am so frustrated, I call tech support and I explained my frustration, my need blade its on its way. If this occurs again with the new blade do I get a new blade or do I have them look at it. Thanks, Desiree
Hi, Desiree,
Poor you!
Have you tried cutting different images to see if it’s just that one image that may be flawed? You could try something very simple like a square or a circle.
If your Cameo is doing the test cuts perfectly, then there’s probably nothing wrong with your blade, so I’m not sure why Silhouette support didn’t dig a little deeper with you to see if there is something more than just a simple blade problem.
If you are still having the same problem with your new blade, you should call them and let them know that you are having the same problem and that you need them to take you through their trouble-shooting steps. You shouldn’t have to send your Cameo back.
I’m keeping my fingers crossed that the new blade solves your problem.
Remember, Desiree, I’m here anytime!!
Gloria
I got my machine for Christmas 2012. I was sooo excited to finally be getting a die cut machine as I’ve been drooling over them for more than 2 years! I was utterly disappointed with the reviews for the Cricut along with enormous cost of cartridges. Anyway, when I found the Cameo, I was elated and to see so many positive reviews! I had my machine for less then 6 weeks when it began to have trouble cutting any corners, be they obtuse or acute and any scale. In the beginning, my machine cut like magic. I mean, it was easily handling the most intricate cuts, whether they were on printed lightweight paper or 65# card stock. My machine impressed me daily. After about 4.5 weeks of use, I decided it was best to replace the blade just because I had used it for a while and had read that after a time the blade dulls and gives poor cuts. You know, keeping things working great. So, I replaced the blade and the new one worked as well as the first. I was busy cutting an intricate lace shamrock from the Silhouette store. I didn’t even cut it at the original size, I made the pattern larger. The first cut was spectacular, the die cut was perfect. So, I loaded up the next sheet of 65# card stock and the machine did such a bad job I thought I was hallucinating. I used the same weight and brand of paper. After that, the blade didn’t cut anything right. If my pattern had a corner it was doomed. I changed my 10 day old blade with another new one. Still the same bad results. I even put in the very first blade I had (I only changed it because of age, not because of a poor cut result) and this blade as well was doing the same thing. Silhouette America mailed me a new blade and it too was doing the same thing. The CSR told me it was my paper, etc and this really upset me as I had never ever had an issue before with ANY paper I had used. He then suggested I might have tried to cut a material I shouldn’t have. Oh, this really put me off. To test the new blade, he had me slow my speed to “1″. This did help, but there were still less-than-perfect results, even at that speed. He finally told me to mail my machine back and they’d mail a new one. It cost me $29 with insurance. Irritating. I am hoping and praying this new machine pleases. I just wish I knew what went wrong with my first machine. How could a blade that worked great and wasn’t broken just stop making good corner cuts? None of the blades were broken either and they were all clean with no paper fibers stuck up inside. Oh, frustration. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with others. I needed to vent.
Hi, Jacksonista,
Wow! Poor you! I can sympathize with your frustration because I’ve been there, too. I bought my Cameo for the same reasons you did. I didn’t want to spend huge amounts on cartridges and I didn’t want to have to store them in my small studio. Also, I love the convenience of just buying what I need directly from Silhouette Studio–and I love the weekly half-price sales and the free image.
I did have a lot of blade issues when I first got my Cameo. But, I bought mine when they first came out in 2011 and SA was shipping them with defective blades. The blades were set at the wrong angle and were tearing up the paper like crazy. They sent me three new blades before I finally got one that worked! I now use my Cameo regularly and the last time I changed the blade was about a year ago.
I think it’s good news/bad news that SA is replacing your Cameo…the good news is that they ARE replacing it, but the bad news is they YOU have to pay the shipping cost to send it back.
I sure hope your new Cameo works like a charm so you can get back to crafting very soon. Please let me know how it goes.
Good luck!
Gloria
I hope you can help me. When I first got my cameo a few months back it worked perfectly until christmas…. I cannot seem to get it to align properly. When I put in the image to cut it will start cutting in the middle of the mat instead of on the far left side. I can’t seem to get the blade back to it’s normal position so I cannot cut using the entire mat size. The largest image I can cut right now is 6″ or else it goes off the page.
Thank you!!
Hi, Holly,
First, try turning your Cameo off and back on to reset the drive belt. Now, do a simple test cut using a basic square or circle image. If you are still having the same problem, go onto the basic basic troubleshooting steps listed below. Quite often, malfunctions such as the one you are describing, can be rectified be quickly rectified by simply clearing the memory. (Hilary has a similar issue…see comment below).
1) close the Silhouette Studio app
2) turn off your computer
3) turn your computer back on and open the Silhouette Studio app
Now that you have taken the steps to clear the memory, everything should now be back to normal. If it’s not, you should give the Silhouette America support folks a call. They should be able to get you up-and-running in no time. I hope it works out, quickly, so you can get back to some serious crafting!!
Good luck,
Gloria
Pingback: Clean Silhouette Blade – How To | Silhouette Cameo Guide
Thank you so much for your blog. I received my Cameo in December and so far loved it. I have had trouble with my mat not being sticky after cutting with it twice. Your information above answered my question on that problem. Hopefully my paper will stick and not come loose from the mat after I clean it.
Thank you again.
Diane
Hi, Diane,
Thanks, so much, for the update. I find the mats are a bit of a pain–sometimes they are too sticky, sometimes not sticky enough. ARGH! But, the beautiful projects we are able to produce in the end, makes the frustration all worth while!
Have a wonderful day!!
Gloria
I bought this machine just last week, because I live in the UK the paper weights etc are different, so are a challenge. I have found your page very helpful. But I would like to ask how to make your own sentiment peel off stickers i.e. Get Well, Happy Birthday, using your own fonts. I have the correct peel of paper, but obviously want them in a size to fit a normal card, would this be too small? I’m not sure where to start, please help. I do know from the manufacture the right blade setting, its just the rest…….
Hi, Sally,
First off, please accept my apology for the late response. I had a technical problem with my comments notification, which has now been rectified. I am back in action. Yay!
You ask an interesting question about peel-and-stick fonts. You could certainly create your own messages, such as Happy Birthday or Congratulations on a peel-and-stick paper or vinyl and use them on your cards. You should be able to buy these in any craft store or directly from Silhouette America. However, for longer messages requiring tiny sized lettering, my recommendation would be to create them on your computer. For example, when I want to write a longer message, I create it on my computer and cut it out so that it fits nicely inside my card. I use tape rollers or glue sticks to adhere it inside the card. Here is an example. http://www.globugideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Frame_Inside1.jpg Sometimes I print the message on a paper with a softly patterned background, for extra interest. Sometimes I like to center the message in the middle of a pretty die shape and run it through my Cuttlebug or Big Shot.
If you need clarification, or have more questions, I am always here! Please come back as often as you like!!
Good luck,
Gloria
Hi—–I don’t know where to start with my frustrations. I have had my S since December and have yet to be able to cut something with it. It was ripping up everything, so I got a new blade. The mat was soo sticky and I’ve ruined so many sheets of cardstock! Still can’t cut. I tried using my Cricut mat with it and it worked a bit better.
Tonight I’ve been trying to cut vinyl and it scores the vinyl but doesn’t cut through it. I cut vinyl when I first got the machine and it worked fine! I follow the setting guidelines to a “T” and NOTHING! After ruining quite a bit of vinyl, I put it away and I’m moving on to sewing!
I’ve had a Cricut for about 3 years and have never replaced the blade or mat once! It still cuts with no problems and I’m beginning to think this Silhouette Cameo thing was a mistake!!!! Thanks for listening.
Jackie
Hi, Jackie,
First, please accept my apology for the late response. My comments notification system went awry and I wasn’t receiving any notifications. It has been fixed and I am back in action! Yay!
Oh, I hear you, and I feel your frustration. I went through the same torment and hair-pulling as you have…and, many of my readers have described exactly the same thing. It’s probably a good thing that you took a break. Sometimes you need a little space from something that’s driving you nuts.
Let’s try to solve your problems and get you to fall in love with your Cameo…
1) if your blade is still tearing paper or vinyl, then you have a problem with the blade. I had three defective blades before Silhouette America finally sent me one that wasn’t defective. The first Cameo blades in 2011 were manufactured the in China and they were defective–they were set at the wrong angle and simply tore up everything we tried to cut. Then, in February 2012, Silhouette America had new blades that were manufactured somewhere in Europe. These were fine. However, those defective blades were still floating around for quite a while.
2) you mention that you got a new blade, but you’re still having problems. So, it could be that your blade was at the wrong setting (i.e., set too high) and the tip broke off. When this happens, the blade will not make clean cuts and, sometimes, it just barely scores the surface of your paper or vinyl. The solution is, once again, a new blade.
3) Silhouette America changed all the blade settings when it released its new software last year. Be sure you have the latest version of the software–you can go to the SA site to check it out.
Don’t give up hope! I promise you will fall in love with this machine as soon as you work through the bugs. I almost threw mine off a bridge, but once I got past all the little (and big) frustrations, I knew I couldn’t live without it !!
Please let me know how it works out. And, come one back anytime you have more questions, need a shoulder to cry on or would like to share some tips and tricks that you have learned.
Until next time, Jackie, keep calm and Cameo on!!
Have a happy day,
Gloria
Hi there I am slowly learning more and more about my cameo and loving it but I’m still having teething problems and one of them is when I go to cut my design out my roller which feeds the paper in has two little black rubber roller things on and my blade misses part of the pattern when it comes in line with these…do I move them or not? Thanks in advance for any help given
Thank you, thank you, thank you for having this site. I’m not sure if my question will make sense but I want to try :.) I just upgraded to the silhouette designer software so I could cut svg files. However, when I go to cut now, it says it cut successfully but it didn’t even attempt to cut. I clicked “test cut” and it printed the test. Any ideas on this strange one. I really wanted to play today too.
Thanks for any suggestions.
Hi! This is a great blog! Thank you so much for putting this together since the Silhouette website isn’t so helpful :-/
We just bought the Cameo a few days ago, its been working great, except the past few days, its been cutting the lines twice. I didn’t check the box to have it cut twice. But not only is it cutting things twice, the second pass seems to be off from where the first pass was, like a quarter inch off!!
Do you know what might be causing this? I was thinking the software update might have something to do with it since that was the only thing that changed.
So I took the files and open them in CorelDRAW saved it as an SVG or DXF and it works fine now. I think its a problem with saving SVGs in Illustrator?
Hi, Dora,
First, please accept my apology for the late response. My comments notification system went awry and I wasn’t receiving any notifications. It has been fixed and I am back in action! Yay!
Unfortunately, I do not use Illustrator, so I can’t help on this one. Hopefully, one of my readers will see this and come to your aid!!
Gloria
Hi, Dora,
Well, this is a weird one!! My suggestion would be to close Silhouette Studio and shut down your computer. Next, turn your computer back on and open Silhouette Studio. This will clear the memory and reset it so you should get proper cuts. It definitely is a software problem, so this would be your first trouble-shooting step.
Let me know how it goes!!
Good luck,
Gloria
I’m so excited to come across this site! I got a Silhouette Cameo for Christmas and have been dying to do some projects! I really wanted to use the print and cut files and even ran out and bought a new printer. My printer works well with my computer BUT with the Cameo, it just goes through the motions and doesn’t print anything. I’ve seen where some printers have not been compatible with the Cameo. Is there some way of finding out if I bought one of the non-compatible ones? By the way, I bought a Kodak esp 3.2.
Response to the lady with the Kodak esp 3.2 . . .
Here are some trouble-shooting steps to help us identify exactly what’s going on with your printing issue:
1. Does your Kodak esp 3.2 print from other programs such as Word or e-mail?
2. In the Silhouette software, have you selected the right printer (for example, I have a label printer and a fax machine and I need to make sure I select the correct printer)
3. Check the Kodak site to be sure you have the latest printer drivers.
4. Do you have the latest version of Silhouette Studio? If not, you can download it free from Silhouette America.
Start with these and then let me know how it goes.
Fingers crossed!!!
Globug
Thank you so much for your advise, I have found a couple things that have really helped me with my Cameo. I really appreciate it.
Hi, Janice,
My pleasure! I’m always happy to help!!
Happy New Year!!!!
Gloria
Hi, Janice,
First, please accept my apology for the late response. My comments notification system went awry and I wasn’t receiving any notifications. It has been fixed and I am back in action! Yay!
Thanks, so much for your lovely message. I am always delighted when I am able to help someone with their Cameo. Happy crafting!!
Gloria
Pingback: Did you get a Silhouette Cameo for Christmas? | Globug Ideas
Hi
I am ready to purchase a machine and am not sure which one to purchase. I am so glad I came across your web page, It has made me think twice about purchasing a cameo, however, if I do you have lots of useful and trouble shooting ideas. Please let me know your thoughts, Cameo. Vs other machines?? Thanks Angela from Australia
Hi, Angela,
I did a great deal of research before buying my Cameo and I am convinced, that despite some of the issues you have read about, it is still the best cutting machine in it’s price range. I have lots of crafting friends who have Cricuts and they all agree that the Cameo provides much cleaner cuts, even on very intricate shapes.
Then, there’s the fact that you don’t have to spend a ton of money on Cricut cartridges and you don’t have to take up valuable space in your craft room to store them. With the Cameo, you can purchase shapes as you need them and they are all stored at your fingertips in your computer. Also, Silhouette America has a free weekly shape and a weekly (every Tuesday) half-price sale on dozens and dozens of images–that’s how I have built my library.
I am a regular crafter and I have been using the same blade for the past nine months and it still cuts like a charm. Also, I love the 12″ cutting mat!
There are die-cutting machines on the market in every price range but, dollar-for-dollar, you won’t find a better machine that the Cameo.
I don’t work for Silhouette America. I’m totally convinced that the Silhouette Cameo is a great buy.
You might want to hear what others have to say about it, so go to Google and search on the term, “Reviews: Silhouette Cameo.”
I hope this helps. Good luck, Angela!!
Gloria
http://www.globugideas.com
Hi.. my problem is the cameo is missing the first cut.. Its always or at least for now.
The blade just doesn’t drop right.. My son ordered new blades and I knew that wasn’t the problem.. Nothing changed.
I will not pay shipping if this needs returned.
I hope they stand behind their product.
[WORDPRESS HASHCASH] The poster sent us ’0 which is not a hashcash value.
Hi, Lola,
Can you give me more information? By “first cut” do you mean that when you want to cut more than one shape on a sheet of paper, the Cameo is skipping over the first one?
While I await more information from you, have you tried turning off your Cameo and shutting down your computer and then turning them both back on? Sometimes computer memory needs to be cleared. I have many Cameo-owners solve their problems by using this solution. It may or may not be a solution to your problem, but it’s worth a try.
Hope to hear from you soon!
Good luck!
Gloria
http://www.globugideas.com
Hi.. my problem is the cameo is missing the first cut.. Its always or at least for now.
The blade just doesn’t drop right.. My son ordered new blades and I knew that wasn’t the problem.. Nothing changed.
I will not pay shipping if this needs returned.
I hope they stand behind their product.
[WORDPRESS HASHCASH] The poster sent us ’0 which is not a hashcash value.
so glad to see these posts! i am sooo frustrated with my cameo i just bought a few weeks ago. i’m trying to cut halloween stuff, and part of the cuts are made, some of the areas don’t get cut and some of the areas get “dragged” so i then have to go over the area with a tiny pair of scissors. I am also having trouble with tiny corners getting rippled….meaning, i wouldnt be able to use the outer area as a stencil. I want to start cutting fabric (have a fabric needle) and vinyl, but i gotta get card stock to work first! i thought my needle was worn out, so i tried the fabric needle and the same thing was happening! my mat is completely chewed up with holes in it. i bought a new mat too. i would like to think that i won’t have to be re purchasing new mats and needles….could my machine be lop-sided or something? literally, half of the cut-cuts, and the other side doesn’t. The blue lever thing is down, meaning its on the mat. It i put it up, then its not touching the mat and the mat shifts. i’m ready to toss this thing out too, but what can i do? i’ve cursed at it too, but then i wake up my daughters!
Hi, Nancy,
Oh, I can hear your frustration from here! I’m going to whisper so we don’t wake up your daughters…LOL!
There are a number of possible reasons why your Cameo is behaving badly. The first one is that you could have a defective blade. Silhouette America’s first blades were defective. These were blades were set at the wrong angle and cannot make clean cuts. As of the end of February of 2012, Silhouette America received new blades that were manufactured correctly. It wasn’t until my fourth blade that I was finally able to make clean cuts.
Another reason your Cameo could be making messy cuts could be that you have set your blade too high. For example, for the average 80 lb. cardstock, the blade setting should never be set higher than 3. Doing so, can cause the tip of you blade to chip off–and that means no more clean cuts…and time for a new blade!
If you are using a very soft paper, like construction paper, it simply doesn’t hold together well enough to be cut cleanly. Additionally, bits of paper fiber will bet stuck in the black casing around your blade. When this happens, you need to take a pin or a tiny artist’s paint brush and remove the debris.
If your mat is completely chewed up, then your blade was definitely set too high. Even when set correctly, the blade will still leave marks on your cutting mat, but won’t cut through it.
Try the following settings: speed 3; thickness 33; blade 3. Remember that when you set the blade to 3 on your computer screen, you must also be sure to set the blade in your Cameo to 3.
I think you are wise to become comfortable with cutting cardstock on you Cameo before beginning to work with fabric.
Good luck, Nancy, and please let me know how it goes!
Gloria
)
Gloria, thank you so much for this fabulous troubleshooting page. I am now convinced that you are the fairy godmother of the Cameo. I too thought I had a defective blade, and Silhouette sent me a new one, but here are the problems I’ve had with BOTH blades so far:
Using the 80 lb cardstock setting on the Cameo, the blade barely scratched the surface of the cardstock and skipped over the cardstock entirely in random areas. This was using a blade setting of 3.
I figured the blade setting was too low since the thickness setting was already maxed out, so I put it up to 4, then 5, then 6. At a setting of 6, with BOTH blades, it finally cut all the way through the cardstock, but again, there were still some areas where it did not cut all the way through and I had to go back over the whole thing with an exacto knife.
Now, I’m realizing from my internet research that a blade setting of 6 is a surefire way to chip the blade. However, before I ever put it at that setting, a 3 would not cut cardstock. So, even if the blades are now chipped due to my putting them at a 6, they probably weren’t at a 3. Even this morning, I put some regular scrapbook paper in the machine, and at 3, the blade did not even touch the paper.
Tried:
-making sure the blade housing is in the machine properly
-making sure software settings are correct (e.g. image set to ‘cut’, ‘use cutting mat’ is checked)
-cleaning bits of paper out of blade with canned air (works so much better than a pin)
-new blade sent by Silhouette (and trying it at low settings first, so I don’t think a chipped blade could be blamed)
-screaming
-cursing
None of them worked. Could I really have two defective blades? I just got my cameo a couple of weeks ago and the new blade arrived a week ago. Please don’t tell me I have a defective Cameo – just give me the magical answer!
Hi, Mary Anne,
Thanks for putting a great big smile on my face! I am really happy to hear that you found this article helpful. There are many other Silhouette-related articles on my blog, in case you need more reading material (hee hee).
Well, you certainly have done all of your troubleshooting and you obviously know the dos and don’ts of the blade settings. Good work!!
In response to your question, “YES, you could definitely have two defective blades!!!” I had three defective blades, and, finally, the fourth one worked. I was ready to throw my Cameo out the window. So glad I didn’t, though, because the fourth blade was a charm!! It worked like magic.
I would persist with Silhouette America and let them know that you are fully aware of what settings to use on the Cameo and that your blade is defective.
Just for your info, the first blades that were shipped with the Cameos were manufactured in Hong Kong and are defective–they are set at the wrong angle and just tear the paper. I heard from hundreds of Cameo-owners with exactly the same problem that I had and that you are now having. The good news is that SA had new blades manufactured in Europe and began shipping them at the end of February of this year. That said, many many crafters were still sent defective blades (obviously, from the original batch). I’ve spoken to many crafters who had to contact SA multiple times for a new blade. Many of us got new cutting mats, too.
Let me know how it turns out, Mary Anne. I’m rooting for you!!!
Gloria
First of all, thanks for your help! I was about ready to toss my new Cameo in the dumpster when I came across your site. I have now managed to make several successful cuts using cardstock and your suggested cut settings of 3-3-33.
Again, thank you!
So for my NEW problem. I want to be able to use a thinner paper similar to copier/printer paper to make some cut-outs to use with my button maker. (2.5inch circles) I have tried several setting combos from the Cameo suggested as well as my own experiments. All I have gotten so far is a bunch of torn paper. (Although I went back and cut more of the cardstock with no problems. so the blade seems to be working for that.)
Also, any suggestions for settings to cut thin vinyl such as ‘contact paper’? I would also like to use the Cameo to make stencils for fabric painting and glass etching. I have heard other crafters say that they use contact paper frequently, but havent been able to find any setting suggestions from any of them.
ANY help would be greatly appreciated!
Hi, Glen,
I’m glad to hear that you are have some success with your Cameo. It’s great, once you get past the initial hurdles.
As for cutting regular paper, I would start with a . Paper is much thinner and more delicate than cardstock, so I would recommend slowing the Cameo down and change the blade and thickness settings as follows:
–blade setting 2
–speed 8
–thickness 15
As for cutting vinyl, have a look at the links I put into an article I posted in July–I included links to some really great articles and cutting charts for vinyl.
I hope this helps, Glen. Let me know how it goes!!! I’m always here!
Gloria
Thanks for your suggestions! I’m having limited success, but I think with a little more tinkering I’ll get a satisfactory result. So far I have been able to cut a 24lb printed paper using Blade set at 1, thickness at 14 and speed at 4. That was a fairly intricate tribal design so I am hopeful I am on the right track.
I havent had as much success with the contact paper yet, but I havent given up. Thanks again for your help!
Hi, Glen,
Thanks, for the update. I’m glad you’re having some success, if even a little! It seems that there might be more than one combination of settings for each type of paper or vinyl.
I did some research on what others are doing with contact paper, and I found an article that might be helpful to you. It’s on a blog called Raggedy Creek Creations. It’s well written and illustrated. I hope it helps!!
Good luck with your contact paper…after all your trials and errors, you will be a pro and will have tons of advice to give to all of us crafters!!
Gloria
Thank you do much for all your knowledge … You are much more helpful than the folks at the Silhouette support #. I’m in the learning process with my cameo…although I’ve had a few hiccups this one is really puzzling, created my design, set to print on vinyl… And it’s only cutting one little section. ???? Then stops?! Double checked the lines are set to cut lines. I’m so confused. Silhouette support told be to upgrade to the newest version. Currently waiting on that. Not sure why it will help. Any thoughts? Greatly appreciated
Hi, Karla,
I had the same problem one time when I was cutting out a design…my Cameo would cut a bit, then stop and then cut a bit more. This can be because the computer is sending information to the Cameo and it takes a little time for it to receive it all. If your Cameo is cutting a bit, but not starting again, then that’s a different story.
You can upgrade to the newest version of the software by going to the Silhouette America sight–the new software is free and it’s instant download. So, I would try that first and hope it works. If it doesn’t, you will need to get in touch with the Silhouette America support folks, again. I wish I could tell you more. Please let us know how it works out. We Cameo owners all love to share information that might help each other.
Good luck, Karla. I hope to hear good news from you, soon!!
Gloria
I contacted the customer support # as well with no help. At the time my cameo was only 1 month old and I had made 3 cuts with it. It now tears up everything, it will not do any clean cuts now. I’ve now been forced to purchase a brand new blade after only 3 cuts from the first one and customer support will not send me a new blade.
Hi, Christie,
)
How frustrating and disappointing for you. I can relate, because I went through the same thing when I first had my Cameo. It sure sounds like your first blade is defective, and I can’t understand why Silhouette America won’t send you a new one. All we can hope for now, is that the new blade works like a charm. By the way, did you e-mail or talk directly to the Silhouette America support rep? I find it is much better to speak to them directly–e-mails just don’t have the same impact.
Keeping my fingers crossed that you fall in love with your Cameo sooooooon!!!
Please let me know what happens.
Gloria
Greetings,
I got my Cameo for Xmas 2011. Just started using it this month. I have a Mac and can’t seem to select several cutting options such as fabric with interfacing nor custom media. I suppose I could just create a new preset for fabric cutting but it would be great to use the factory presets. Your thoughts?
Michelle
I don’t have any experience with Macs, so I’m not sure what your next step is. I would contact Silhouette support and ask them to shed some light on working with a Mac and Silhouette. They must have had this question from other Mac users.
Sorry I couldn’t help, but I hope you will come back and let us all know how it works out. I’m sure there are many crafters who would love to know.
Good luck! Hope to hear good news from you soon!
Gloria
I had a problem with having very few pre-sets with my windows computer, but upgraded the program through the Silhouette site, and now have all the new pre-sets. Big help! I’m brand new, and still have LOTS to learn! Hopefully this could be an easy fix for your Mac as well.
Hi There!!
I REALLY tried to read the above comments to make sure you hadn’t already answered my question before! I didn’t see it, so I thought I’d go ahead and ask– my dear, sweet Silhouette is finally giving me problems after 4 months of bliss. It now does not load the cutting mat all the way! It will “suck” it in just a little bit, then begin cutting ABOVE my paper or cardstock, thus making a mess of my whole project! This has never happened before, so I’m wondering what the issue is? I’ve tried turning it off, reloading my Silhouette software, and even manually trying to line up the blade at the beginning of each project with the control panel arrows (what a pain…). Any advice or words of wisdom? I can’t figure out why it is choosing to do this NOW, after I’ve used it so well for a few months. Thanks in advance!
Jillian
Hi, Jillian,
Well, you’ve got me on this one. You have gone through all the trouble-shooting steps exactly right. I wish I had a magic bullet, but at this point, I think you need to contact Silhouette America. I hope it’s something they can help you with over the phone. Let me know what happens, so I can share it with other Cameo-owners!!
Wish I could have helped,
Gloria
)
hi Jillian and Gloria,
I had the same problem. In my case I realised I had the machine set to “load media” instead of “load cutting mat”. I wrecked a few projects too before I worked it out!
hope this helps..
Cheers, Pam
Hi, Pam and Jillian,
It’s easy to forget one little setting, isn’t it? There are so many things to think of!! Glad you got it sorted out. Thanks for the excellent reminder!!!!!
Big hugs,
Gloria
Just came across this post. Thank you, thank you, thank you! My mat wouldn’t load all the way in and I too was wondering why after working perfectly fine for 6 months it decided to do this. After reading the above info I realized it was set to load media.
Glad your problem is solved! Now, have a blast with your new Cameo!!
Globug
Hi, Deb,
Yay!! I love it when there’s a simple fix!!! Enjoy you Cameo!!
Gloria
I have had my Cameo since December and haven’t used it much because there is always a problem of some sort. Many of the ones mentioned here.
Now-the blade will not contact the paper at all. The blade is all the way in and locked but when I click CUT the thing follows the lines of the design to be cut but the blade never goes up and down at all.
I called customer service and the lady said to plug the usb cable into another port on my computer. I did so and still the same thing. They are now sending me a new USB cable thinking the original one has failed. Since the machine follows the line for the cut, I don’t believe a new cable will solve the problem.
Has anyone else had this happen?
Hi, Kathy,
My apologies for the delay in responding to you–I didn’t realize that I hadn’t until just now, when I was going through my e-mail.
First off, let me sympathize with you. I totally understand your frustration because I went through exactly the same thing. Let’s try to sort out your problem.
I can’t believe that Silhouette America support is sending you a new USB cable for your cutting problem. The two are not, in any way, related! The USB cable is related to the computer’s software. The blade movement is a physical function of the the machine.
If you are certain the blade tip is not broken, then you may have a defective machine. However, I would try installing a new blade before doing returning the machine to Silhouette America.
If you do try a new blade, try it on a piece of regular cardstock, such as Stamping Up Whisper White or any other 80-100 lb cardstock. Set your blade at 3, thickness at 33 and speed at 3. If you get a clean cut, then all is well. However, if you get a mess cut, then you have a defective blade. If you get no cut at all, then you have a defective machine.
I know you’re frustrated, but don’t give up. I promise you it will all get straightened out and you will be making the most amazing projects with your new Cameo!!!
Let me know how it goes, Kathy. Good luck!!
Gloria
)
I’m having the EXACT problem with the blade movement and have had the same response from Silhouette, they’re sending me a new USB cable. I tried our printer cable (since it has the same ports) and had the same problem. I really hope there’s some magic in their USB cable.
I will eat my shirt if a new USB cable fixes your problem. I don’t know what to tell you except to hound Silhouette America for a new machine, once you have tried their “magic USB cable.” please, please come back and let us know how this turns out. I can’t wait to hear how the company rectifies your situation.
I really am sorry that I don’t have a solution your problem.
Hope to hear from you soon!
Gloria
Well of course the new USB cable didn’t help at all. they had me send my machine back at MY expense ($50 via UPS) and will send me a new Cameo. They got the bad one this past Friday. I’ll let you know when I get the new one.
I plan to write a letter to the company about the shipping expense since the machine was defective….but I’ll wait til I get my new one.
Hi,
I have the same problem! I just contacted them today and they are sending me a new USB cable as well. They also told me to take the blade out and spray some WD40 on the part where the blade moves up and down. I am so glad found this website. Thanks for all your help.
Hi, Kathy,
You go, girl!! I agree, totally, that you should not have to pay for shipping for THEIR defective machine. I sure hope you get your new one quickly…like YESTERDAY!! lol!
Can’t wait to hear about your new Cameo!! …and you and I both knew that a new USB cable would do absolutely nothing!!
Keeping smiling (or as they say in the UK, “Keep Calm and Carry On!!)
Big hugs,
Gloris
Hi, Kelly,
I just can’t believe that the Silhouette America support folks are sending out USB cables for a totally unrelated problem. Yikes!!! I hope you get your Cameo working, soon! Will you let us know how the WD40 works out? Other Cameo owners might find this info useful–IF it works!!!
Chin up, Kelly. Hope to hear good news, SOON!
Big hugs,
Gloria
Oh, Kelly, Silhouette America needs some new technical support staff! My prediction is that you will be getting a new Cameo…but they are putting your through such torture, first. If the new USB cable works, I will eat my shirt!!!
)
Let’s stay in touch!!!
Gloria
So…I tried the WD-40 and it still doesn’t work. Now just waiting for the USB cable.
I had a problem where there was no “spring” in the blade. I could push it down with my finger but it didn’t spring back up. after numerous emails I was sent a new blade by Tech support which made no difference at all. I knew that wasn’t the problem. My husband took the cover off of the blade carrying unit and sprayed all around it with silicone spray. we tried canned air first but that didn’t help. I was so relieved the silicone worked because I’m in Australia so there was no chance of me returning the machine with the huge postage costs. sorry to hear the WD40 didn’t work though.
Cheers Pam
Hi, Pam,
Thanks, for the update. So glad you found a solution! Shipping costs from Australia must be just crazy!! I’m sure other Cameo-owners will be happy to hear that the silicon spray works!!
Thanks, again,
)
Gloria
Well Silhouette replaced my defective Cameo about 10 days ago. I have been using it the past few days and WOW is it nice to have one that actually works. Having lots of fun.
I haven’t written the letter yet asking them to reimburse me the $50 it cost me to send the defective one back to them. I will report back after I get the letter out and a reply from SIL.
Thanks Gloria for all your posts and info.
Hi, Kathy,
Congratulations! You must be having so a ball with your new fully functioning Cameo! I hope they reimburse you the money and then you can spend it on my crafting supplies!! LOL!
Thanks for the update. I’m looking forward to hearing how SIL responds to your letter.
Have a very happy weekend!!!!
Gloria
My machine was purchased in January 2012; it cuts pretty well, but have had problems with the machine making “hammering” noises while cutting and then it forgets what its cutting and cuts lines wherever it wants to.
I have contacted customer service and am waiting to hear a reply back.
Hi, Patti,
Oh, poor you! That’s awful! It sure sounds like you have a defective machine. I haven’t heard of anyone else having that particular problem. I think all of my readers would love to know how this turns out. So, if you think of it, would you please come back and let us know what the problem is and how Silhouette deals with it?
Wishing you good luck!!!!
Gloria
Dear Gloria
I am so glad to see other users have a problem (or two!) as well. I was so excited to get my Cameo and at first it also cut well and then suddenly started tearing the paper, not making cuts, etc. I shall have a look at all the possibilities to fix it (start with a new blade). I have managed to cut right through my brand new mat and am really angry with myself for doing it! I suppose it is now only good for the bin!
I have another problem – where can I find out on what settings I should set the cutting so that it can cut THROUGH the paper (but please not through my mat again!). Also, I have loaded a full 12 x 12 sheet so as not to waste paper (bazzill card stock) and some of the images will be cut and then some lines not cut at all. Can you please help?
Thank you very much for your very informative blog!
Kind regards
Barbie
Hi, Barbie,
Let me first apologize for not getting back to you sooner. Somehow, I didn’t see you comment until just now.
So, let’s see what we can do to get you on the way to Cameo-love! First off, don’t worry about your cutting mat, I did the same thing to mine when I first got it, and I have been using it with no problems, ever since.
If your blade is cutting parts of you image and missing other parts, you can try two things: use the “double cut” feature. This should solve your problem. You can also slow your cutting speed to give the blade a little more time going around the intricate ares of the design.
When you are cutting something very thin, such as vinyl or vellum, you will set your blade at 1 or 2 and reduce the thickness setting to about 10–you may have to try a few different thickness settings until you get the right one for your particular vinyl or vellum.
If you are cutting standard 80 pound cardstock, such as Stamping Up Whisper White or Very Vanilla, you will always set your blade at 3, speed 3, thickness 33. If parts of your design are not being cut, use the double- cut feature. You will rarely need to turn your blade higher than 3 or 4.
If your blade consistently tears the paper, you may have chipped the end of it–that means time for a new blade. Chipping the end of your blade can happen when you have the blade set too high. So, for example, if you’re cutting cardstock and you have your blade set at 6 or 7, rather than the required setting of 3, the blade will come too far out of the casing and will chip of at the end.
As you may already know, many of first Cameos were shipped with defective blades that just tore up the paper and vinyl. However, as of the end of February, 2012, Silhouette America began shipping new blades. I received three new blades befor I finally got one that worked.
I hope you find this information helpful. Please come back anytime and we will work through any and all Cameo issues, together!
Good luck, Barbie!
Gloria
Pingback: Cameo help website - www.craftforums.co.uk
Hi, Margaret,
I’m glad you find my Silhouette Cameo articles helpful. I would love to see your Cup cards…would you please send the link?
Hope you are having a happy day!
Gloria
My mom got this machine for her birthday a few weeks ago, the first time she used it, the roller things didnt work and the cutting strip was ruined. The Silhouette people had her send hers back so they could send her a new one, and after taking weeks to recieve it AGAIN, it still isn’t working. The cuts are jagged, and the blade has cut right through the cutting mat. Two different machines she has used and neither of them have worked. This cutting machine simply isn’t very useful. It rarely works right and has done nothing but irritate and dissapoint her.
Hi, Kalie,
Oh, I feel so bad for your mom. I know how disappointing and frustrating it is to have a machine that doesn’t work, because I went through exactly the same thing. Let’s see if we can sort out some of your problems.
First, if the blade has gone right through the cutting mat, then it sounds like your mom had the blade setting too high.
The setting for regular card stock such as Stamping Up Whisper White should be as follows: blade–3; thickness 33; speed 3.
If the Cameo was set higher than that, then it is quite likely that it cut through the paper and the mat.
We rarely need to set the blade higher than a 3…unless, you are cutting some extra thick cardstock like a cereal box, for example.
The other problem with setting the blade too high is that the end of the blade chips off and then it just makes jagged cuts and rips the paper.
The blade, as you know, is extremely tiny, and it is next to impossible to actually see if the tip has been damaged. But, the ripping, rough and jagged cuts are clear indication that the blade has been chipped. The only solution to this problem is to replace the blade.
If you are certain your mom was using the correct blade setting, then she may have received a defective blade. Many of us who bought Cameos when they first came out last year, received defective blades. I spoke with the Silhouette America support folks on several occasions and they told me that the first blades that were produced in Taiwan were all set at the wrong angle and, consequently, were not able to make clean cuts. As of the end of February 2012, Silhouette America received a new shipment of good blades and began to replace the defective ones, upon request. So, all this to say, that you might want to contact Silhouette America again and ask them to replace your blade and your mat. They sent me a new blade three times and one new cutting mat.
I hope this works out for your mom. Once she gets the bugs worked out she will absolutely LOVE her Cameo. Let her know that I was so discouraged that I was ready to either send mine back or put it in the nearest trash can! Now, I am making clean cuts on even the most detailed designs and images.
Let me know how it works out. Good luck to you and your mom, Kalie!!
Gloria
Hi, I have also just got a silhouette for my birthday! Was so excited. Took a while to unpack and plug in work it all out, but still having issues. So temperamental. If I cut thick heavy card it’s great, but as soon as I cut something a little less thick ( I’m talking normal scrapbooking card) it cuts fine on a straight line but give it a V and tears and drags the card, it doesn’t even score it. I downloaded a scalloped card design, at the bottom of the scallop on the way back to the top it just pulls the card. I’ve checked the blade, cleaned and checked that it’s rotating. What is wrong with this thing?
Regards jenny
Hi, Jenny,
Oh, I’m feeling your pain! I went through exactly the same thing when first got mine. I’m pretty sure your blade is chipped. This could have happened if you had your blade set too high. For example, the settings for regular cardstock (Stampin Up Whisper White, for example) would be:
Blade: 3
Speed: 3
Thickness 33
If you are sure you haven’t set your blade too high, then you are probably one of the unfortunate ones who received a defective blade. Many of the Cameos where delivered with blades that had been set at the wrong angle. This produced exactly the problem you have described: great on straight cuts, but impossible on anything beyond that. My advice to you is to contact Silhouette America support and explain the problem. They will send you a new blade. Then sent me a new blade three times before we finally got one that wasn’t defective. But, don’t let this discourage you. As of the end of February, they got in a new shipment of non-defective blades to replace the crappy ones that were sent out in the Cameos. I am certain that you will receive a good blade.
Now that I have a good blade, I am cutting even the most intricate designs. It is truly a great machine, once you work out the bugs.
Please drop in and let me know how it all works out for you. I hope this helps. Good luck, Jenny!!
Gloria
)
Just got my brand new silhouette. My cutting mat will not load. Everytime I try it gives me an error message and says unload. Anyone have this problem?
Hi, congratulations on your Cameo!!
I haven’t had a problem loading my cutting mat, so the only thing I can think of is to check the blue lever on the right-hand side of the roller bar…it should be UP to hold down the roller bar. If you have already checked that, then perhaps some of my readers can offer some advice. You could also call Silhouette America support and ask them to help you out.
Please come back and let us all know how it turns out!
Good luck,
Gloria
I have this exact same problem. Did you ever figure this out? I could really use some help. I have yet to be able to use my machine
Hi – I’ve just gotten my new Cameo and was very pleased for the first few cuts. However, when I tried to cut a full page of images (card bases), the blade skipped in the same small area all the way down the page. It cut fine in all other areas. I did adjust the blade depth from 3 to 4, but the same thing happened. I also double cut the problem areas – same thing. I was trying to cut Hero Arts layering paper, and used the 80lb cardstock setting. Any ideas as to why this is happening?
Hi! I have never had this problem, nor have I heard of anyone else having it. I wish I had an answer for you. If you haven’t already done so, I would recommend you contact the Silhouette America support team.
Perhaps some of our readers have had this same problem… If anyone has any suggestions or advice, please leave a comment.
I am really sorry I couldn’t help you. I will do some research and will post whatever information I gather. If you figure out why your Cameo is skipping, would you please, please come back and share the information with us?
Good luck!
Gloria
I’m having this problem too! Don’t have a solution just yet, but I wanted to let Jeanie she’s not the only one! I’m cleaning my blade now but that doesn’t seem to have helped.
If you have cleaned your blade and it is still not cutting or not giving you clean cuts, you probably need a new blade. If this is the blade that came with your Cameo, you may have received one of their defective blades. If you call their support number, they will send you a new blade. Let us know how it works out. Good luck!!!
)
Gloria
Gloria – I just received my Silhouette for my Birthday yesterday. Loading up the software, everything was a breeze. Then I tried to cut something…. the right side of the cutting area of the project doesn’t cut… not all areas are a clean cut that I can remove… I’ve tried all weights of paper… Don’t want to complain but what the heck! Also, the right roller is not adjustable – is that correct? How big is the blade coming out of the hole? I looked and cleaned with a pin – it’s tiny? Smaller than a tiny hand sewing needle?
First things, first…Happy Birthday!! A Silhouette Cameo is a wonderful gift.
Let’s start with the blade–it is practically microsopic–not bigger than the end of a very fine needle. And, it breaks very easily if you set it too high.
If you are doing paper crafts, you will rarely need to set the blade higher than 3; thickness 33; speed 3. If you have set it higher than this while using regular crafting paper, such as Stamping Up Whisper White, you may have chipped the end of your blade. If this is the case, your blade is finished and you will need to buy a new one. The blade is so tiny, that you cannot even see if it is chipped–you’ll just know it if it isn’t cutting.
The right roller is adjustable, although it is extremely difficult to do so. Try putting on rubber gloves so that you get a good grip. First, locate the blue lock lever on the right end, just above the roller bar and then turn it up. Next, turn the white sliding roller toward the back of the machine until the pinchers are not in the notches. Next, slide the white roller to the desired position and twist it until it locks into the grooves.
You mentioned that the right side of your project didn’t cut–could it be that your roller was not locked down?
Please come one back and let us know how it works out for you. Most of us have gone through at least one or two blades before getting it right. But, once you get right, it’s really worth it!!
Good luck,
Gloria
This post is a year old, but I am having this same problem now. An area about 1cm straight down the middle of the page (top to bottom) does not cut all the way through the paper. The cuts to the right, and left are perfect. Has anyone figured this out? I’ve had my cameo a week now, and have successfully cut 20 or so projects. This problem just started today.
Please can you help another frustrated Silhouette Cameo user?
After using my machine very successfully for about 4 weeks, I returned my first machine to Create and Craft because the cartridge was jumping and the blade was skipping around the mat. They replaced the machine and I had used the new one for a week before it started to do the same thing. Silhouette America say that they have had a lot of problems with blades so they have offered to send a new blade but I am not sure whether this is solely a blade problem. I note that a user on gingerscraps.net had a similar problem.
Have you come across this or do you have any ideas?
I am hoping to make wedding invitations for my niece so I really need to get this sorted out.
Many thanks
Sandra
Hi, Sandra,
)
I haven’t come across this problem with my Cameo, but perhaps some of my readers have. Let’s hope that someone will come to your rescue.
Have you called the Silhouette America support line? They may be able to give you an answer or walk you through some potential solutions. If you do find a solution, it would be great if you would come back and share it with us.
Good luck,
Gloria
P.S. Check out this link http://www.silhouetteamerica.com/img/products/preview/silhouette-Cameo.gif
Mine started doing this a few weeks ago! I sent them an email and they wanted me to take a picture and email it to them. I tried to take a picture but it was hard to see the cut/skip lines. When I started using SCAL 3 it worked fine so I thought it was the designer program…well today the problem has begun again.
Hi, Tammy,
I’m no expert, but it may not be your blade. Let’s try to troubleshoot…
What are you cutting? Is it a heavy cardstock of a regular weight, like Stampin’ Up Smooth cardstock? What is your blade set at? It should be at a 2 or 3, at the most. Once we establish that you have the right blade setting for the paper thickness, then we can start to look at other potential reasons for the skipping. Are you getting clean cuts–when it does cut? Can you see the long metal belt vibrating when the machine is cutting–it should run smoothly.
Let me know how it works out. I have hundreds of readers every week with Silhouette questions, and they would all love to hear about your experience.
Thanks, for stopping by, Tammy. Good luck!
)
Gloria
Do I have to use vinyl from Silhouette or I can use any kind of vinyl?
Should I use different blades for different materials?
This was so helpful! Now I don’t feel so alone. I too love what my cameo silhouette has the potential to do but I wondered if I was the only one out there having so many problems with the mat and blade. Hopefully I can power through and continue creating things without getting too frustrated, but your article gave me some hope and a little insight. Thank you!
~Jessica
Hi, Jessica,
I just read your comment and wanted to thank you for stopping by my blog. I’m still struggling with my Cameo problems, too, but on the bright side, I just installed a new blade and it seems to be cutting beautifully. I’m going to try cutting out some really intricate stuff, like names and perhaps even a doily. I will post the results in the forum.
Let’s keep our fingers crossed!!!
Gloria
)
Thanks for sharing this great information. I am loving the Cameo, made some great cards, but then the blade starting tearing the paper. Put in a new blade and it’s also tearing the paper so it may be defective., I’ll contact Silhouette. I’ll also try cleaning my mat and refurbishing it. They’re a bit pricey to buy, will watch for Silhouette America to have a sale. Should have stocked up at Christmas!
Hi, Jan,
Thanks, for stopping by! Your experience with the Cameo blade is just one more in a long list of frustrated Silhouette Cameo users. We all LOVE our Cameos but wish it would work all the time! Silhouette America will send you a new blade…they have sent me two and a new mat. Let us know how it goes!!
By the way, I am creating a forum here at Globug Ideas for Silhouette Cameos to share the problems, solutions and …when their Cameos work…their creations! Hope you will join in and keep us up-to-date on how it’s going. The Forum should be live later today.
Good luck, and thanks again for your stopping by. Gloria
Brilliant article – thanks for summing up all of my experiences so far! That said I do love the machine and most of the time I get stunning results. I was one of the first to purchase in the UK and managed to produce all my Christmas cards and a few hundred nativity scene silhouettes tree decorations to hand out at our Christmas Day service – all with the same blade; however, the blade that came with the machine was useless ( it need to be set on 8/9 to cut light card) and the company I purchased were not willing to replace it and I had to order a new one before I could really get started.
I teach IT and use all kinds of graphic and drawing programs and have to say that, whilst a little esoteric in some areas. the designer version of the software is excellent and well worth paying the extra for. Any UK cutter addicts out there – perhaps we could organise a cutting meet! contact lesley@computer-press.net
Hi, Lesley,
Thanks, so much for commenting. I’m so happy to hear that you have had some excellent results with you Silhouette Cameo–it gives hope to others who are still dealing with those frustrating blade and mat issues.
I have started a forum here at Globug Ideas for crafters to share their Silhouette Cameo tips and hardships. I hope you will join us and drop by from time to time to and tell us how things are going. There’s also a forum entitled Cameo Creations, and it sounds like you have some great projects to show the world.
I’m so glad you dropped by! Lots of luck to you in organizing a cutting meet–great idea!!!
Gloria
)