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Why Correct Machine Selection Matters
Because some of the versions of Silhouette Studio V5 include a feature that displays ALL model machines in the Page Setup panel, it is crucial the correct machine is selected. This ensures the correct type registration marks are aded.
Let's say you select the CAMEO 5a from the Cutting Machine list, but you have a CAMEO 5 machine. When you add registration marks, the CAMEO 5a 4 mark type will be added...
but your CAMEO 5 will not be able to read them because it will be looking for 3 marks.
3 vs 4 Mark Type Registration Marks
When Silhouette America launched the CAMEO 5a they touted one of the new improvements the 4 mark registration system. "A new four-point registration mark system refines Print & Cut workflows with vertical and horizontal correction, ensuring clean, reliable cuts for beginners and professionals alike."
All of the previous models, with the exception of the CAMEO Pro MK II, use a three mark registration system.
In my personal and professional experiencing in helping thousands of users and printing hundreds of my own print and cut projects, 98% of print and cut registration errors are due to one of a handful of user errors.
A three vs a 4 point marks system makes no difference in reliability if you can't eliminate the common pitfalls users fall into.
So the only thing the 4 point system does is make the print and cut-area smaller by adding the fourth mark and hash area in the bottom right corner.
Why Registration Marks Matter
These registration marks around your design allow your Silhouette machine's optical scanner to precisely locate where your printed image is on the page.
Similarly, those common user errors can cause misaligned cuts or registration failure altogether.
Common Issues That Cause Registration Errors
As I mentioned, regardless of the three or 4 mark system, there are user errors that cause the majority of print and cut errors. They include:
- Wrong Material Size Select in the Page Setup Panel
- Mismatch Machine Selection/Marks Type vs Connected Machine (New Issue)
- Moving Registration Marks Outside of Printable Area
- Positioning Designs Too Close To or Overlapping Registration Marks or Hashed Area
- Changing the Size / Position of Registration Marks
- Too Much Paper in the Tray Causing Printer to Grab Paper at the Incorrect Time
- Moving Designs or Marks After Printing
- Not Enough Light or Glare From Overhead Lights
- Shiny/Glossy Material Creating a Glare on Marks
As you can see, none of these have anything to do with the type or style of registration marks which is why I don't believe the 4 mark system is better. I think it just adds confusion for users and it added an additional pitfall.
Learn to Identify and Fix Registration Mark Issues
Learning how to identify and fix these issue is the key to successful print and cut! If you're looking for help with print and cut whether that's 1:1 chat help with me, personalized same day email support, or a library of videos (preview before you join!) and a curated video course on print and cut - Silhouette U is where you'll find all of that!
Join Silhouette U and get the expert help you need, exactly when you need it.
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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