Initially perform a test cut on the material. Peel back the cut vinyl and check the cut to ensure that the blade has just marked the silicone layer of the release liner. Then look at the reverse (printed) side of the release liner and check that an impression of the cut is not visible on the reverse of the liner. If such a mark can be seen, the cut is too deep and can will cause paper de-lamination when weeding as well as premature blade wear and damage.

It is important to remember that the choice of cutting weight and depth is dependent on the film type, with cast materials requiring the least pressure and speciality materials such as polyester and reflective vinyls the most. For general guidelines refer to the plotter’s manual. Certain speciality materials such as fluorescent and reflective vinyls and sandblast vinyl will require a greater blade angle and a slower cutting speed, as will materials with a polyester face film.

When weeding, short sharp snatches can often prove the cleanest method, particularly where text has sharp serifs. Correct cutting will save weeding time. Cutting and weeding can prove difficult in cold or hot conditions and it is important to weed the graphic shortly after cutting to avoid adhesive bleed that will make weeding difficult, particularly in hot conditions