How to use a Roland GS-24 and Cut Studio Part 1 - Text

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to use the Roland GS-24 vinyl cutter along with Cut Studio software. It is designed for beginners who want to learn about cutting text with precision for various projects, such as graphics design or crafting. Understanding these tools will enhance your ability to create custom designs efficiently.

Step 1: Setting Up the Roland GS-24

1. Unbox and Assemble the Cutter

   • Remove the Roland GS-24 from its packaging and follow the assembly instructions included in the manual.
   • Ensure all components are securely connected, including the cutting blade and power supply.

2. Connect to Power and Computer

   • Plug the cutter into a power outlet.
   • Connect the GS-24 to your computer via USB cable.

3. Install Drivers and Software

   • Download the necessary drivers for the GS-24 from the Roland website.
   • Install the Cut Studio software on your computer.

Step 2: Launching Cut Studio

1. Open Cut Studio

   • Locate the Cut Studio icon on your desktop or in your applications folder and double-click to open it.

2. Familiarize Yourself with the Interface

   • Explore the main features such as the tool palette, workspace, and object properties.
   • Take note of the toolbar for essential functions like drawing shapes, text, and importing images.

Step 3: Creating Text in Cut Studio

1. Select the Text Tool

   • Click on the text tool icon in the toolbar.

2. Input Your Desired Text

   • Click on the workspace and type the text you want to cut.
   • Adjust the font style and size using the properties panel.

3. Transform the Text

   • Use the selection tool to move, resize, or rotate the text as needed.
   • Ensure the text is properly placed within the workspace for optimal cutting.

Step 4: Preparing for Cutting

1. Set Cutting Parameters

   • Navigate to the cutting settings in Cut Studio.
   • Adjust settings such as speed, pressure, and blade depth according to the material you are using.

2. Preview the Cut

   • Use the preview feature to visualize how the text will be cut.
   • Make any necessary adjustments to the layout or cutting settings.

3. Send to the Cutter

   • Once satisfied with the setup, click on the "Cut" button to send the job to the Roland GS-24.

Step 5: Cutting the Material

1. Load the Material into the Cutter

   • Place your vinyl or material on the cutting mat and feed it into the GS-24.
   • Align it properly with the cutter’s registration marks.

2. Start the Cutting Process

   • Monitor the cutter as it begins to cut the text.
   • Ensure there are no obstructions or material misalignments during cutting.

3. Remove the Cut Material

   • After cutting is complete, carefully remove the vinyl from the cutting mat.
   • Weed out the excess material around the text to reveal the final design.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, you learned how to set up the Roland GS-24, create text in Cut Studio, and prepare for cutting. By following these steps, you can effectively create custom vinyl designs. As a next step, consider experimenting with different fonts and materials to further enhance your skills and creativity in vinyl cutting.