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    TUTORIALS & GUIDES:

    Master Every Cut, Weld, and Score Command

    🔬 Article 001: Calibration & Precision Cutting

    Achieving pinpoint accuracy, especially with **Print Then Cut** projects, requires regular machine calibration. Any shift in mat placement or wear on the blade can throw off alignment. We recommend running the calibration process once a month or whenever you switch between material types (e.g., from thick basswood to thin vinyl).

    Calibration Checklist: Print Then Cut

    1. [CMD-1] Ensure your printer paper size matches the setting in Design Space (Letter vs. A4).
    2. [CMD-2] Load the calibration sheet onto a *clean*, *StandardGrip* mat, aligned exactly with the top-left corner.
    3. [CMD-3] Run the test. Only peel the cut circle/square when instructed, verifying the cut line is *centered* on the printed line.

    🔗 Article 002: Advanced Layering with Offset & Slice

    The **Offset** feature is your key to professional-level vinyl layering and sticker making.

    FUNCTION PURPOSE USE CASE
    **Weld** Permanently merges shapes. Script fonts where letters overlap.
    **Attach** Keeps position for cutting/drawing. Text placed exactly on a card shape.
    **Slice** Cuts one shape out of another (max 2 objects). Creating stencil masks or window cuts.

    For seamless multi-color projects, use **Offset** to create a slightly larger, solid background layer for your primary image. This prevents alignment errors from showing through the edges, resulting in a clean shadow effect.

    Long-form Guide: Machine Maintenance Protocol

    Longevity of your Cricut machine relies on simple, consistent maintenance. Never neglect a dull blade. A clean blade ensures precise cuts, reducing material waste and preventing deep gouges in your mats. Always store tools in a dedicated container to protect tips.

    • ▶ **Mat Cleaning:** Use warm water and mild dish soap. Do not scrub harshly. Air dry until stickiness returns.
    • ▶ **Blade Check:** Use a ball of aluminum foil to ‘sharpen’ a standard blade. Stab the foil multiple times to remove stray vinyl fibers.

    🚨 Common Errors

    ERROR CODE 001: Machine Not Connecting

    Solution: Unpair/repair Bluetooth, ensure Design Space is updated, and check firmware version.

    ISSUE: Cuts Not Going Through

    Solution: Re-select material, increase pressure setting to ‘More’, or change to a new blade.

    🗂️ Tool Index

    • Deep-Point Blade: Cuts material up to 1.5mm.
    • Scoring Wheel: Creates single deep score lines.
    • Waver Blade: Adds a decorative wavy edge finish.