Best Way to See Cut Lines when Weeding HTV

If you struggle with seeing the cut lines when weeding HTV, you're not alone.

I have been weeding heat transfer vinyl for years and despite all the ideas, hacks, gadgets and tools out there I have found one simple trick that consistently makes seeing the cut lines easier: overhead light.


We've talked about light tables and tracing tables for weeding vinyl and heat transfer vinyl, but none of them have anything on overhead light.

Some crafters swear by a head lamp, others just a regular overhead lamp...my preference is an Ottlite because there's almost no glare on the vinyl and you can increase the brightness to your needs.  

Look a the difference in the visibility of the weeding lines in this detailed Zentangle, from So Fontsy's October SVG and Font Bundle, when you compare just regular day light...

....the backlight of a Cricut Light Pad...

...and the overhead light provided by the Ottlite.

I use this Ottlite a lot for weeding and I love it because the base helps hold the HTV sheet in place while weeding and the light is able to extend out and over the design. 

There are definitely different styles of Ottlites, though, depending on your space, needs (some have magnifiers on them too!), and budget.

Now that you know the trick to weeding HTV - no matter how small or intricate the design - you won't shy away from them!! If you're a fan of these zentangles, don't forget to head over and grab So Fontsy's October bundle while's available at 93% off!

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. By clicking on them and purchasing products through my links, I receive a small commission. That's what helps fund Silhouette School so I can keep buying new Silhouette-related products to show you how to get the most out of your machine!

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