Silhouette Blades: Which One is Right for You?
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If the only Silhouette machine you’ve ever owned is the Cameo 3 or the Portrait 2, chances are that you are most familiar with the AutoBlade. But did you know that Silhouette offers four additional blades for their electronic cutting machines as well as three tools designed specifically for the Curio? Read on for a brief overview of each one.
Note: Even though a tool or blade may fit in a different machine than it’s designed for (such as using a Deep-Cut blade in a Cameo 1, Cameo 2, or the original Portrait), using a blade in this way could void your warranty. Always follow manufacturer’s recommendations to prolong the life of your Silhouette tools and machines.
(All photos by Silhouette America)
AutoBlade
Compatible with the Cameo 3 and Portrait 2 only.
This blade is automatically adjusted by your Silhouette machine, based on software settings.
MSRP: $12.99
Ratchet Blade
Compatible with all Portrait and Cameo models, as well as the Curio.
This carbide blade is adjusted by hand using the ratchet tool built in to the bed of your Silhouette machine. A ratchet tool is also included in the package with each ratchet blade.
MSRP: $12.99
Fabric Blade
Compatible with all Portrait and Cameo models, as well as the Curio.
This blade is identical to the regular ratchet blade except for color. Using a dedicated blade for your fabric projects will give cleaner cuts and extend the life of your blade.
MSRP: $12.99
Premium Blade
Compatible with all Portrait and Cameo models, as well as the Curio.
This is my favorite multi-purpose blade! Made of a sintered tungsten alloy, it can last up to three times as long as a regular blade under normal cutting conditions.
MSRP: $19.99
Deep-Cut Blade
Compatible with the Cameo 3, Portrait 2, and Curio only.
Made of sintered tungsten alloy and providing a maximum cutting depth of 2mm (twice as deep as a regular blade), the deep-cut blade is designed to cut thicker materials such as craft foam.
MSRP: $24.99
Stippling & Etching Tool
Compatible with the Curio.
Designed to be used on metal surfaces that can be stippled or etched such as Silhouette Metal Stippling Sheets or Metal Etching Sheets.
MSRP: $12.99
Wide Embossing Tool
Compatible with the Curio.
Creates a broad embossed look on soft materials where embossing impressions can be made, such as Silhouette Score & Emboss Paper.
MSRP: $9.99
Fine Embossing Tool
Compatible with the Curio.
Creates a narrow embossed look on soft materials where embossing impressions can be made, such as Silhouette Score & Emboss Paper.
MSRP: $9.99
Coming Soon!
Silhouette Kraft Blade. Designed to cut a wide variety of materials without the use of stabilizers or starch. Requires the use of the new Strong Hold Cutting Mat when cutting thicker materials such as denim or felt. I can’t wait to get my hands on one of these to try and I’ll be sure to post a full review when I do!
What blade(s) are YOU currently using? If you’re used to a blade that automatically adjusts, don’t be afraid to try a manual-adjustment blade (or vice-versa) – you might just find a new favorite! Have questions about any of these blades or anything else related to your Silhouette machine? Feel free to leave me a comment below or visit me over on Facebook. I love hearing from you!
Until next time,
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Lycia is a lifelong crafter whose goal is to help others find value, confidence, and joy in whatever they create. She geeks out on using technology to supercharge craft projects with Silhouette Studio, Design Space, Glowforge, sublimation, etc.! Lycia teaches these skills and more through online tutorials and videos as well as in-person classes at both the local and national levels.
HOW TO SWITCH TO RATCHET BLADE IN CAMEO3
Hi Vinquavious! You can change the blade selection in the Send panel of the Silhouette software. Just be sure to manually adjust the blade to the correct depth (as shown in the software cut settings – also in the Send panel) and push it all the way down (no gaps) before you lock it in place. Hope this helps!
so i just choose tool 2 from drop down and hide tool one settings
Yes, but only if you’re actually putting the ratchet blade in the Tool 2 holder. It can go in either the Tool 1 or the Tool 2 holder.
Can the auto blade be adjusted manually?
Yes, it can! Kelly Wayment has a great video on how to clean/adjust the various Silhouette blades. You can find it at https://www.findingtimetocreate.com/2017/01/adjust-clean-silhouette-blades/.