New to owning a Silhouette Cameo? Let’s go over the basics to get you started off on the right foot!
I have personally owned a Silhouette Cameo since the very first model was launched in 2011. Since then, I have owned both the Silhouette Cameo 3 and Silhouette Cameo 4. For years, I have made projects ranging from paper cards, to vinyl for clothing to stencils for wooden signs.
Before I get started on sharing all of my favorite tools, supplies and projects, let’s go over some of the basics.
A machine that cuts custom designs created in Silhouette Studio in many different types of materials. Some of these materials include vinyl, paper, balsa wood, stickers, and more.
You can buy directly from Silhouette America or from Amazon.
Silhouette Studio is a free downloadable program that can be found on the Silhouette America website.
There are so many things that you can do with a Silhouette Cameo. Many of those include cutting vinyl, paper, fabric, balsa wood and so much more.
What Supplies Do You Need to Use A Silhouette Cameo?
Over the years, I have tested many different brands of products that can be used with the Silhouette and have developed my favorites list along with my own tips and tricks for making your projects easier and more budget friendly!
Silhouette machine- The Silhouette Cameo 4 is the current, most recent model.
Cutting mat – For most applications, a mat I needed to carry the material to be cut into the Silhouette Cameo. Cutting mats come in two different sizes. 12×12 cutting mat, and 12×24 cutting mat.
Blade – for the newer models, the Auto Blade is the way to go because the Silhouette Studio software tells your Cameo what blade depth to use and automatically adjusts for your project. Be sure to purchase the correct Auto Blade for your Silhouette Cameo model.
Weeding tools – In order to “weed” your cut material, it’s best to have the necessary tools to remove the excess material or the material that you cut. This Silhouette Cameo Tool Kit is the best. *Pro Tip: I personally always use a sewing seam ripper to weed my designs.
Transfer tape – Once you’ve cut your design in vinyl, you must transfer the vinyl to the item you are putting the design on. Oracal Transfer Tape is a great product to transfer your design. *Pro Tip: I personally love to use Duck Brand EasyLiner Brand Contact Paper Adhesive Shelf Liner in clear, that I buy at Walmart.
Best HTV (Heat Transfer Vinyl) – Heat transfer vinyl is the type of vinyl that is needed to adhere decals and designs to clothing, fabric, canvas and such. My favorite HTV is Siser EasyWeed Heat Transfer Vinyl.
Permanent Vinyl – Oracal 651 is permanent vinyl that will last for 1-5 years depending on application and usage. This Oracal 651 vinyl can be used for indoor or outdoor projects, floor and wall mural projects, drink ware projects and more. The vinyl is scratch and abrasion resistant. Oracal 651 comes in glossy and matte finishes.
General Purpose Vinyl – Oracal 631 is a great all-around craft vinyl. It comes in glossy and matte finishes.
Beginner Tutorials
If you’re new to working with a Silhouette, I would highly recommend checking out my beginner tutorials before getting started:
How To Cut Vinyl On A Silhouette Cameo | Beginner Tutorial
How To Cut Vinyl On A Silhouette Cameo | Beginner Tutorial
You can also check out Silhouette America’s Silhouette Cameo tutorials.
Wood Projects
- How To Make A Wood Sign – Farmhouse Style| From Start to Finish
- Funny Laundry Room Sign | How To Make A Sign with A Silhouette Cameo
- How to Repurpose A Cabinet Door into A Farmhouse Sign
- Joy | Christmas Painted Wooden porch Sign
- Stay Home | DIY Wooden Porch Sign