Vinyl cutters are powerful machines used to create custom designs and lettering for a wide range of applications. They are tools that use a sharp blade to cut shapes, letters, and graphics from rolls of vinyl automatically. Whether you’re looking to make t-shirts, labels, signage, or other products, vinyl cutters such as the Summa cutter can get the job done quickly and easily. 

Operating a Vinyl Cutter

Vinyl cutters operate by cutting through sheets or rolls of vinyl with a sharp blade. The blade is controlled either by hand or computer-controlled motors, depending on the model.

To begin automated cutting, the user must first load their design into the machine's software program. Once loaded into the software, the design is sent to the cutter which then cuts out the desired shape from the vinyl material.

Common Uses for Vinyl Cutters and Their Benefits

Vinyl cutters have become increasingly popular over recent years due to their ability to quickly produce detailed designs with precision and accuracy. They are commonly used in sign-making because they allow users to create intricate designs with ease. 

Additionally, they can be used in apparel decoration as well as vehicle wraps, as they can easily handle large pieces of material. Other uses include craft projects such as making stickers or window decals, banners and flags for events or businesses, adhesive letters and numbers for retail stores or schools, and much more!

Types of Vinyl Cutters

There are two main types of vinyl cutters: standalone vinyl cutters and computer-controlled vinyl cutters. Standalone vinyl cutters are relatively low-cost machines that can be used without being connected to a personal computer. These machines come with built-in designs, which makes them great for amateur crafters who don't plan on doing complex projects but require simple cuts for basic lettering or shapes. 


Computer-controlled vinyl cutters require a personal computer connection in order to operate. They offer more options than standalone machines due to their ability to access different software programs, which allow users to create more complex designs using vector graphic files such as AI or EPS files that can be imported into the machine's software program for cutting purposes. 

Knowing how you plan to use the machine will help you find the best vinyl cutter for small businesses.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Vinyl Cutter

When buying a vinyl cutter there are several factors you should consider including: 

  • Budget
  • Size requirements (how large the materials you can work with)
  • Speed (how fast it is able to move while cutting)
  • Accuracy (how precise it is when cutting out shapes)
  • Features (e.g., multi-color printing capabilities)
  • Compatibility (with types of materials)
  • Customer support offered by the manufacturer

Get a Vinyl Cutter for Your Next Project

Vinyl cutters are incredibly versatile tools that offer users endless possibilities when it comes to creating custom designs and lettering. With so many types of cutters available on the market today, it’s important to consider all of the options carefully before investing in one. Once you find the right machine, it can pay off in a huge way! 

From small businesses needing affordable signage solutions to hobbyists looking for creative ways to express themselves through art, vinyl cutters and plotter machines offer limitless potential.

Before purchasing one, it’s important to research each type available in order to make an informed decision about which one best suits your needs now and in the future. With this information in mind, Airmark can help you find all that you need when considering investing in a vinyl cutter.