Q: Do I have to be a computer wiz to use the Craft ROBO?
A: If you know how to use Microsoft Word, then you should not find the Craft ROBO software dificult to use. You should be up and running after an hour of use.
Q: What versions of Windows work with this software?
A: Craft ROBO software is compatible with Windows 2000/XP, and VISTA
Q: Will the Craft ROBO work with an Apple Mac?
A: Yes The Craft ROBO comes with a plug in that can cut directly from Adobe Illustrator. However, you need have a copy of Adobe Illustrator.
Q: Is it easy to size shapes and letters in the Craft ROBO software?
A: Yes. The font or shape can be selected with your mouse. Clicking and dragging on the corner of the selection box lets you make your text/shape larger and smaller.
Q: Do I need to purchase extra accessories to cut different fonts or shapes?
A: Not at all. You can use the fonts on your computer. The software that comes with the Craft ROBO allows you to draw other shapes to cut. There are also many internet sites that allow you to download free fonts and shapes to use with your cutter. That is Unlimited fonts and unlimited shapes!
Q: Can I use clipart from the internet or Clip Art CDs with the Craft ROBO?
A: Yes. The Caft ROBO software comes with an Autotrace feature, that allows you to oad your clip art into the program; then with a click of a button it will trace an outline around your image. This outline can then be cut with the Craft ROBO.
Q: I use another program; (Adobe Illustrator). Can I use this program to cut directly to my cutter?
A: Craft ROBO comes with a plug in that allows you to cut directly from Illustrator. The software also can import .dxf files created in other programs. Before exporting the .dxf, you need to make sure the image is ungrouped. You can also use Corel Draw to design and cut directly to the Craft ROBO.
Q: Can I use the software tocreate my own shapes.
A: Yes. You can use the provided software's drawing tools to create your own shapes. You may also import a photo or a clip art file and again using the drawing tools to trace around the outside of the picture to create the cutlines, or as stated earlier, use the Autotrace feature.
Q: Can I create joined script words?
A: Yes .This is a two step process. first use a paint program to create your word. Make sure your words are overlapping. Save the image as a bmp or jpg file. then usning the Autotrace feature, load the image, trace. then cut!
Another method is to use programs such as Adobe Illustrator, CorelDraw and Inkscape, to create your design. Then save the design as a dxf file, ready to load into the Craft ROBO software and cut.
Q: Can I create a shadow?
A: After making your own shape or joined word, select all the points and lines by clicking and dragging over your shape. Then increase the size slightly and voila. If you have closed objects within your selected shape, such as the letter o, you select those cutlines and decrease the size. Or you may use the "thickness" setting within the Autotace function to create your mat.
Q: What size can I cut my words and shapes?
A: The Craft ROBO accepts A4 width media and up to one metre long. It can cut objects that fit on that size file.
Q: What papers can I use with my Craft ROBO?
A: Most cardstock, vellum and printed papers can be cut using the Craft ROBO. Bazzill can be cut using two o rings and a red cap.
Hint: With some of the thicker Bazzill you may have to cut the material twice. This is done in two ways..
1. Cut the shape the first time, do not move the mat and select the cut function again.
2. When you have the shape finalised, select the shape, then copy and paste the shape. The resulting file contains two exact shapes. When you select cut from the software it will automatically cut the shape twice. Also lay the textured side, face down on the adhesive surface, so that the Craft ROBO cuts the smooth side.
1. Cut the shape the first time, do not move the mat and select the cut function again.
2. When you have the shape finalised, select the shape, then copy and paste the shape. The resulting file contains two exact shapes. When you select cut from the software it will automatically cut the shape twice. Also lay the textured side, face down on the adhesive surface, so that the Craft ROBO cuts the smooth side.
Q: Why do I need to use a cutting mat?
A: The mat serves two purposes. Firstly the paper is pressed onto the adhesive surface of the. This is done to hold the items that were cut out in place, otherwise they would would fall out and jam in the cutter. Secondly, the mat stops the blade from cutting through the paper which may damage the cutting strip, dull your cutting blade and potentially jam the Craft ROBO during cutting. So we at Skat Katz ALWAYS use a cutting mat!
Q: How long will a blade last?
A: Depending on usage and the types of material being cut, a blade will typically last about six months before requiring replacement. Please note that cutting thicker materials will wear down the blade more quickly.
Q: How long will a cutting mat last?
A: The cutting mat will lose its adhesive properties with every use, however, you should get up to 100 cuts from the mat.
Q: What is so special about the Print and Cut feature.
A: The Print and Cut feature allows you to import an image and using the software tools you can trace cutlines around your image. Then send it to your printer where it prints out your image with 'registration marks' on the paper. The Craft ROBO has a sensor that can detect the location of the registration marks. It uses these marks to identify cut lines around images.
Q: What other materials can I cut with my Craft ROBO?
A: You can cut Vinyl, to make your own "Rubons".. When you purchase a Craft Robo from Skat Katz you will also receive a trial media kit, which consists of different coloured vinyl sheets. Remember, when you cut these sheets you need to cut with the blue cap on the blade. The blue cap is for the thinnest materials, yellow medium thickness, while the pink cap is used for card stock.
