What Is a Cutting Plotter?
A cutting plotter is a device that uses computer-controlled blades to cut materials like heat transfer vinyl, cardstock, fabric, or paper. The cut paths are typically derived from SVG files or other vector graphic files.
The machine moves either the blade or the material precisely along the contour – much like a printer, but with a blade instead of ink.
Common Uses
- Creating decals, stickers, and wall graphics
- Heat transfer vinyl (HTV) for customizing T-shirts and apparel
- Cardmaking, scrapbooking, paper crafting
- Preparing appliqué shapes for use with an embroidery machine
Combining Plotter and Embroidery
Cutting plotters are a great complement to machine embroidery:
- Appliqué prep: Fabric shapes are cut cleanly and then outlined with embroidery
- In-the-hoop (ITH) projects: Cut elements like names or shapes ahead of time
- Pre-cut templates included in some embroidery design bundles
Tip: Many designers provide embroidery designs along with SVG files for matching appliqué pieces.
Requirements
- Design software compatible with the plotter brand (e.g. Silhouette Studio, Cricut Design Space, CanvasWorkspace)
- Ideally access to vector-based files (such as SVGs)
Note: A cutting plotter is not an embroidery machine – but it fits beautifully into creative workflows. If you often do appliqué or custom garment decoration, it can save time and boost precision.