Operation Manual Cutting Machine Product Code: 891-Z05 Be sure to read this document before using the machine.
Terms of Use IMPORTANT-PLEASE READ CAREFULLY: This Terms of Use (“Agreement”) is a legal agreement between Brother Industries, Ltd. (“Company”) and you that governs your use of any Software, installed on or made available by Company for use with sewing or craft products (“Company Product”). The term of “Software” means any and all contents data, design data, data format, firmware of Company Product, and PC application or mobile device application.
4.2 5 Termination 5.1 5.2 6 Company shall have the right to terminate this Agreement at any time by providing a written notice to you if you commit a material breach of any terms of this Agreement and fail to immediately rectify such breach upon Company’s request.
INTRODUCTION Thank you for purchasing this machine. Before using this machine or attempting any maintenance, carefully read the “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” on the Product Safety Guide, and then read the Operation Manual for the correct operation of the various functions. In addition, after you have finished reading this manual, store it where it can quickly be accessed for future reference.
CONTENTS Terms of Use .................................................. i INTRODUCTION .......................................... 1 IMPORTANT NOTICE ................................... 1 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ......... 1 Auto Layout Functions ......................................... 49 Scanning a Background Image............................ 50 Character Input Functions.................................... 51 MEMORY FUNCTIONS ............................... 53 Patterns (“Pattern” mode) ..........
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS .................... 105 INDEX .......................................................
FEATURES Patterns (“Pattern” mode) Scanning (“Scan” mode) Select a pattern and edit it to create your own design. By simply loading craft paper or fabric, you can quickly create precision paper and fabric cutouts. Scan an illustration, photo or your own drawing to create personalized cut designs. The design can then be cut out or saved as data. The editing functions of ScanNCut DX will allow you to easily edit the built-in patterns to create your own design.
Transferring Data using the Wireless Network Connection Function This machine is equipped with a wireless network connection function. With this function, patterns edited in the dedicated application CanvasWorkspace can be transferred to the machine via a wireless network connection. Refer to the following to use the wireless network connection function. 1. Connecting to a wireless network: Touch in the home screen to specify the wireless network connection settings.
Chapter 1 GETTING STARTED PARTS AND FUNCTIONS d Scanner Lever Adjusted according to the operation being performed. For details, see “Preparing for Feeding the Mat” on page 9. Unit Descriptions - Front e Grips Grasped when moving the machine. f a b h i c e g Shaft Drives a feed roller on each end to feed the mat. d e f j g l k a Operation Panel Allows you to control the unit and specify settings with the LCD panel and operating buttons. The angle of the operation panel can be adjusted.
Unit Descriptions - Rear Unit Descriptions - Operation Panel b a c d f 1 e f f e a LCD Panel Displays operation screens, preview images of patterns and error messages. b Power Button Turns the machine on/off. a b c d g a USB Port (for a USB flash drive) Allows a USB flash drive to be connected for saving and recalling data. b USB Port (for a computer) Allows a USB cable to be connected for saving and recalling data.
BEFORE USE Removing the Packing Materials Turning On/Off the Machine Before turning on the machine, open the front tray cover, and then remove all shipping tapes (in front and back of the machine) and the cardboard shockabsorbing material. a a Connect the power cord to the machine. b a Shipping tape a b Cardboard shock-absorbing material Note • If the packing materials were removed after the machine was turned on, turn the machine off, then on again.
b The home screen appears. Raise the scanner lever (on the left side of the machine) to “2”. 1 Memo • LCD panels commonly have bright spots (permanently lit dots) and dark spots (unlit dots). It may cause some unexpected luminous spots to appear and tiny picture elements to be missed in the screen. Please note that this is not a sign of malfunction. d e f To turn off the machine, press operation panel. in the Unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet.
MACHINE SETTINGS Settings Screen From the LCD panel, touch to select and adjust the settings for each function. This section contains descriptions of the machine settings which will appear when is selected on the home screen. b b Mat size key ■ Group 1 b a b a Touch to display the previous or next item. * Swiping the touch pen (stylus) over the screen will also display a different screen. b Touch to finish specifying settings. Language Select the display language.
Half Cut Select whether or not to make half-cuts. For details, see “Half Cut (Kiss Cut) Settings” on page 28. Memo • When multiple patterns are cut at the same time, the setting specified in this screen is applied to all patterns. • If cutting line data saved with a different seam allowance is imported and used, the setting specified in this screen will have priority over the saved setting. Cut Pressure (Half Cut) Specify the cutting pressure for half-cuts.
■ Group 5 Auto Shutdown If the machine is not used for a specified length of time, it will automatically turn off. The length of time until the machine turns off can be specified in the settings screen. No. Displays the number for this machine. Ver. Displays the version information for this software. Touch this button to update the machine’s software. For details, see “UPDATING THE SOFTWARE” on page 102. Machine Information Touch this button, this page displays machine information.
Chapter 2 BASIC OPERATIONS FIRST STEPS The following procedures describe basic operations, from preparing the material to performing trial cutting. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Selecting the Mat Appropriate for the Material....................................P.13 Attaching the material to the mat ..........................................................P.16 Selecting the Blade Appropriate for the Material ................................P.23 Installing the Holder in the Machine........................................
Reference Table of Mat and Material Combinations Use a mat appropriate for the material, as referred to in this table. Before using materials from your project, test attaching the material to check the adhesion to the mat. Mat (for ScanNCut DX) Others Fabric Paper Material Sheet for fabric cutting Iron-on Fabric High Tack Appliqué Contact Adhesive Fabric Sheet (White Support Sheet Backing) Thickness Standard Tack Adhesive Mat Low Tack Adhesive Mat Printer paper 80 g/m² (0.
Note • Avoid using craft paper or fabric covered with decorative layer (that can easily separate), such as lamé or foil. The separate layer may stick to the machine’s scanning device or feed rollers during operation, resulting in damage to the machine. It may also damage the cutting blade. When using such material, be sure to clean the scanner glass inside the machine after every use (page 91). • Tape material that can easily peel off, such as foam sheets, to secure it in place.
b Attaching the material to the mat Test attaching the material. Before attaching the material to the mat, use a corner of the adhesive side of the mat to test attaching it. If any of the following problems occur when test attaching, the adhesive strength of the mat is too high for the material. Use different material. • When the material is peeled off, color from the material remains on the mat. • When the material is peeled off, it tears or is deformed.
d Firmly attach all of the material to the mat so that there are no wrinkles and no part can curl off. ■ Fabric (Other Than for Quilt Piecing) a • Otherwise, curls in the material may become caught when the mat is inserted. b 2 a Standard tack adhesive mat b Iron-on fabric appliqué contact sheet (white backing) Attaching Fabric Material (Excluding Quilt Piecing) Note • If the mat is dirty, clean it. For details, see “Cleaning the Mat” on page 89.
b Cut the iron-on fabric appliqué contact sheet to a size 2 cm (3/4") or more larger than the outline of the pattern to be cut. e Peel off the backing from the contact sheet. Before peeling off the backing, allow all parts to cool. b a b c a a Contact sheet b Backing f a Pattern to be cut b Cutting line of sheet Slowly attach the entire surface of the material from its edges while pressing out any air with a ruler, etc., so that no air is trapped between the mat and the material.
Peeling Off the Material (Excluding Quilt Piecing) After cutting the material, use a spatula to peel off the fabric together with the attached contact sheet. a Note • Do not wash fabrics attached together with a double-sided adhesive contact sheet. • When attaching fabrics with the double-sided adhesive, iron carefully, being sure that the material and adhesive surfaces are properly heat-set.
b ■ Fabric (for Quilt Piecing) b With the glossy side of the high tack adhesive fabric support sheet facing down, attach it to the mat’s adhesive side. Slowly attach the entire surface of the support sheet from its edges while pressing out any air with a ruler, etc., so that no air is trapped between the mat and the sheet.
e From its edges, attach the material to the adhesive side of the mat so that there are no wrinkles in the material. Be sure to first iron the fabric to remove any wrinkles. Peeling Off the Material (Fabric for Quilt Piecing) After cutting the material, use a spatula to slowly peel off just the fabric. Try not to peel off the support sheet. 2 a b c Note • Place the material within the attaching area (grid area) on the adhesive side.
Notice on Use of High Tack Adhesive Fabric Support Sheet • When the sheet’s adhesive strength decreases or fabric becomes twisted while being cut, replace the sheet with a new one. • When peeling the sheet off the mat or replacing the sheet, use the spatula to carefully remove the old sheet. • Store the mat in between uses with the protective sheet affixed to the support sheet.
Blade and Material Combination The appropriate blade differs depending on the material type and thickness. Before cutting the material, be sure to perform test cut (trial cut). For details on trial cutting, see “Test Cut (Trial Cut)” on page 25. Use the following table to select the appropriate cutting blade according to the material that will be cut. Material compability may vary. Always perform a test/trial cut to confirm a successful cut.
c Installing and Uninstalling the Holder Grasp the holder grip, and then insert the holder into the carriage. Select the holder appropriate for the material, and then install it into the machine. For details on the holder appropriate for the material, see “Blade and Material Combination” on page 23. a a Press in the operation panel to turn on the machine. For details, see “Turning On/Off the Machine” on page 8. Note • Be sure to turn on the machine before installing the holder.
b Test Cut (Trial Cut) Check that the pattern to be cut out is arranged within a cutting area specified according to the size of the material. Perform test/trial cut or draw on the type of material to be used in your project, to check that the desired result can be achieved. This section describes the procedure for performing test cut. ■ Turning On the Machine 2 Press in the operation panel to turn on the machine. • For details, see “Turning On/Off the Machine” on page 8.
■ Loading the Mat ■ Cutting a a Attach the material that will be cut to the mat. Select “Cut” in the test screen. • For details on attaching material to the mat, see “Attaching the material to the mat” on page 16. b While holding the mat level and lightly inserting it into the feed slot, press in the operation panel. Insert the tip of the mat so that it aligns with the guides on the left and right sides of the feed slot and is tucked under the feed rollers.
■ Unloading the Mat a Press ■ Checking the Test/Trial Cut Results in the operation panel to feed out the mat. Adjust the cutting pressure according to the test/trial cut results. Repeatedly perform test/trial cut and adjust the cutting pressure until the material is cut cleanly. With an Appropriate Cutting Pressure When the material is peeled off, a faint trace of the cut remains on the mat surface.
b Touch or to adjust the cutting pressure, and then touch the "OK" key. ■ Half Cut (Kiss Cut) Settings To make half cuts (kiss cuts), turn on half cut (kiss cut) in the settings screen before beginning to cut. a c Touch in the preview screen to display the settings screen. Check that the settings have changed in the test screen, and then perform test/trial cut again. b Turn on “Half Cut”, and then touch the “OK” key. • The pressure for half cut (kiss cut) can adjusted with “Cut Pressure (Half Cut)”.
PATTERN CUTTING The following procedures use built-in patterns to describe the entire series of operations, from selecting a pattern and editing it to cutting. b Select the category for the pattern to be cut out in the pattern category selection screen. For this example, select . Tutorial 1 - Cutting Patterns a 2 b a Touch to return to the previous screen.
■ Selecting and Editing the Second Pattern a Touch the “Add” key in the mat layout screen. b Select the location of the pattern to be added. • For this example, touch the “Pattern” key to add a built-in pattern. For details on recalling pattern data, see step c in “Retrieve Data” on page 54. c Select the category for the pattern to be cut out. e Edit the pattern. After editing is finished, touch the “Set” key. • For details on the editing functions, see “Pattern Editing Functions” on page 40.
■ Cutting Memo • To move a pattern within the cutting/drawing area, touch the pattern on the screen and drag it to the desired position. a Select “Cut” in the preview screen. 2 • To delete a pattern from the arrangement, select the pattern in the mat editing screen, and then use the function for deleting. Touch the "Edit" key in the mat layout screen. Touch the pattern to be deleted in the screen. To delete multiple patterns, use the function for selecting multiple patterns.
Note • Touch the “Test” key in the preview screen to perform test/trial cut. When test/trial cut is finished, the following screen appears. - Touch the “Start” key to start cutting the pattern. Touch the “Test again” key to return to the test screen. Change the settings, and then perform test/trial cut again. ■ Selecting and Editing the First Pattern Piece a b Select “Pattern” in the home screen. Select the category in the pattern category selection screen.
d Select the pattern to be cut out in the pattern selection screen. Memo • The pattern pieces displayed in the pattern piece list screen are automatically arranged so that the grain is vertical when fabric is used as the material for cutting. Therefore, the angle at which the pattern appears in the pattern piece list may differ from the actual angle of the pattern piece to be cut out. a b b a a Touch to scroll up. b Touch to scroll down.
h Check the pattern piece arrangement using the mat layout screen. Note The pattern piece to be cut out appears in the screen. After checking the arrangement, touch the “OK” key. • From this screen, an individual pattern piece can be edited, moved, deleted or saved. For details on the editing functions in the mat layout screen, see “Mat Layout Screen” on page 41. • Select the “Cut Area” setting appropriate for the mat being used. (See page 10.
■ Editing and Cutting the Second Pattern Piece a Select and edit the second pattern piece, and then touch the “OK” key. For details on editing the pattern, follow steps f-h (page 33) in “Selecting and Editing the First Pattern Piece”. ■ Editing and Cutting the all Pattern Pieces Cutting the pattern outline a Select and edit the all pattern pieces, and then touch the “OK” key. 2 a a Touch to return to the pattern category selection screen for selecting another pattern.
e Touch the “Object Edit” key. Cutting all the pattern piece within the same mat a f Touch Select and edit the all pattern pieces, and then touch the “OK” key. to weld the pattern. • For details on the welding, see “Welding (Merging the Outlines of Multiple Patterns)” on page 46. b Edit the pattern piece using the pattern piece editing screen. • For details on the editing functions, see “Editing the Pattern Piece” on page 41.
e f Touch the “OK” key. 2 Follow the procedures described in “Loading the Mat” (page 26) and “Cutting” (page 26) to load the material to be cut. When cutting is finished, a message appears. g After all pattern pieces have been cut out, touch the “Finish” key.
PATTERN SELECTION The following four pattern selection functions are available in the mat editing screen depending on your preference: ● Selecting a Single Pattern ● Selecting Desired Patterns ● Selecting All Patterns ● Specifying the Selection Area b Individually touch all the patterns you want to select in the screen, and then touch the “OK” key. a Touch the "Edit" key in the mat layout screen to use the pattern selection functions.
■ Specifying the Selection Area a b Touch in the mat editing screen for making multiple pattern selection. Touch patterns. for specifying an area to select the 2 Memo • Make sure that is not selected before specifying the area to select. c Touch and drag the area resizing keys to specify the area, and then touch the “OK” key. a b a Keys for specifying the area b Patterns to be selected Note • Make sure to specify to include more than two patterns in the area.
Chapter 3 ADVANCED OPERATIONS CUTTING AND EDITING FUNCTIONS b Unlocking the Aspect Ratio Pattern Editing Functions Touch The pattern editing functions available may differ depending on the pattern you select. Follow the instructions in either this section or “Pattern Editing Functions - Multiple Patterns” on page 41. Available in the following screen maintaining the aspect ratio. The function is available depending on the pattern you select.
Pattern Editing Functions - Multiple Patterns The pattern editing functions available may differ depending on the pattern you select. Follow the instructions in either this section or “Pattern Editing Functions” on page 40. ■ Pattern Sizing Mat Layout Screen The arrangement of the patterns can be edited. The cutting/drawing area specified with the “Cut Area” setting (page 10) in the settings screen is displayed in the preview screen.
Layout Editing Functions d Object Edit The selected pattern can be edited in more detail. For details, see “Object Editing Screen” on page 43. The layout editing functions are available when the "Edit" key is touched in the mat layout screen. e Moving Incrementally move the selected patterns. Touch the arrow keys to adjust the position of the patterns. The mat editing screen appears.
d Seam Allowance Apply the seam allowance setting. Apply this setting when cutting around a drawn pattern, such as when making appliqué or quilt pieces. When applied, the drawing line (blue) and cutting line (black) appear. • For details on the seam allowance function, see “Cutting Around Drawings” on page 63. Object Editing Screen a b c d f e g h i 3 j a Sizing Change the size of the selected pattern. Touching this key displays the pattern sizing screen.
i Welding (Merging the Outlines of Multiple Patterns) Weld the outlines of multiple patterns to create a single outline. For details, see “Welding (Merging the Outlines of Multiple Patterns)” on page 46. Grouping/Ungrouping Patterns j Alignment Select multiple patterns to align them based on their positions or heights. For details, see “Aligning Patterns” on page 47. Multiple patterns selected can be combined into a single group, or that group can be separated into the individual patterns.
c Touch in the object editing screen. ■ Ungrouping Patterns a b Select grouped patterns in the mat editing screen, and then touch the "Object Edit" key. Touch in the object editing screen. 3 All of the selected patterns are grouped. (The color of the key changed.) Memo • The key color indicates how the selected patterns are grouped. - : Two or more patterns are selected and can be grouped. When the key is touched, it appears as - . : The patterns are grouped. (The color of the key changed.
d Welding (Merging the Outlines of Multiple Patterns) e b Touch the "Object Edit" key in the mat layout screen. Select two heart patterns of different sizes and arrange them in the mat layout screen. Touch the large heart pattern in the mat layout screen, and then drag it over the small pattern. f c , and then touch the “OK” key. • Two pattern selection functions are available depending on your preference. For details on selecting multiple patterns, see “Selecting Multiple Patterns” on page 38.
The outlines of the selected patterns are welded. Aligning Patterns Multiple patterns can be selected and aligned based on their positions or heights. a Select two or more patterns in the mat editing screen, and then touch the "Object Edit" key. • For details on selecting multiple patterns, see “Selecting Multiple Patterns” on page 38. Note • This function welds the outermost outline of the patterns.
c Align the patterns. • If three or more patterns were selected, they can be distributed horizontally (g) or vertically (h). • The patterns are aligned depending on the key that is touched, as described below. a b c d g h e f Original Original g a b Left h Distribute horizontally Distribute vertically Right Note c d Top • When patterns are distributed, they may extend out the mat. Adjust the pattern positions according to the message instructions.
■ Centering Two or More Patterns a Add two circle patterns, and then change the size of one. • For details on resizing patterns, see “Object Editing Screen” on page 43. Auto Layout Functions The auto layout function is useful when you do not wish to waste the material attached to the mat. Touch in the mat layout screen (page 41) to perform the auto layout function. Note b After selecting two patterns, touch in the object editing screen to display the following screen.
b Scanning a Background Image After selecting the cutting/drawing pattern, touch in the mat layout screen to start the background scanning function. In this example, we will use material with a cutout in its upper-left corner as a background image. The following message appears. Memo • The background scanning function is also useful when cutting out patterns from material with a design on it.
d Touch the "Edit" key. Character Input Functions Characters can be selected, edited, cut out and drawn as a single pattern. Select the character type from the pattern category selection screen. a The mat editing screen appears. Memo b • The pattern can also be moved by touching and dragging it in the screen. e a Select decorated characters. The characters can be edited, cut out and drawn as a pattern. For details on editing, see “Pattern Editing Functions” on page 40.
c Type in the characters. b Character spacing adjustment keys The keyboard is in the QWERTY layout. After entering the characters, touch the “OK” key. f g a 0 6 12 0 6 12 b c Size of entire character string c e d e Check the character arrangement. To cut or draw, touch the “OK” key. To save the characters as data, touch the “Save” key. For details on saving data, see “Saving” on page 53.
MEMORY FUNCTIONS Patterns and characters arranged in the cutting/ drawing area can be saved and recalled later. For details on the file formats that can be imported into the cutting machine from a USB flash drive or computer, see “Importing Designs” on page 57. If the name of the data file/folder cannot be identified, for example, when the name contains special characters, the file/folder is not displayed. If this occurs, change the name of the file/folder.
When saving is finished, the following message appears. For details on checking data saved in CanvasWorkspace, refer to the Help for CanvasWorkspace. d Touch the “OK” key to finish saving the data. Retrieve Data a a Retrieve from the machine’s memory. Touch the pattern to be retrieved and display. b Retrieve from a USB flash drive. • If there are folders on the USB flash drive, touch a folder to display the list of patterns that it contains.
c Retrieve from CanvasWorkspace (via a wireless network connection). The transferred pattern from CanvasWorkspace appears on mat layout screen. For details, see “Retrieve from CanvasWorkspace (Via a Wireless Network Connection)” on page 55. d Retrieve from CanvasWorkspace (using a USB cable). The transferred pattern from CanvasWorkspace appears on mat layout screen. For details, see “Retrieve from CanvasWorkspace (Using a USB Cable) (compatible only with Windows)” on page 56.
d Touch the “Retrieve Data” key in the home screen to display the retrieve source selection screen. Retrieve from CanvasWorkspace (Using a USB Cable) (compatible only with Windows) When the machine is connected to the computer with a USB cable, a pattern can be retrieved from CanvasWorkspace (PC version). ■ Connecting Your Machine to the Computer • If in the home screen is blue, the machine is connected to a wireless network.
b c Start up CanvasWorkspace on a computer. Click [Transfer FCM File to ScanNCut DX via USB Cable…] on the [File] menu to transfer the FCM file edited in CanvasWorkspace to the machine. When the pattern data is saved to the machine, the following message appears. Click [OK]. Importing Designs ■ Importable File Formats In addition to the FCM format, files in the following formats can be imported into the machine.
Retrieving Embroidery Data for Cutting (Compatible Models Only) Embroidery data (.phc or .pes files) can be retrieved to the machine, then cut out or drawn. .phc files are embroidery data from sewing machines equipped with an embroidering function, and .pes files are embroidery data created with the embroidery design software system PE-DESIGN. With this embroidery data, outline data or region data of parts of each color or of the entire pattern can be created.
c Touch the “OK” key. Creating Appliqué Data Memo • Make sure that the pattern contains an “APPLIQUE MATERIAL” pattern. a Touch to display the pattern piece list screen, and then touch the “OK” key. “APPLIQUE MATERIAL” appears in the screen. d e Attach the fabric for the appliqué piece to the mat, and then cut out the pattern. Refer to the operation manual for the sewing machine to complete the appliqué. Creating Embroidering Line Data The pattern editing screen appears.
• Color recognition mode switched off The cutting/drawing data is created after the embroidery pattern is converted to grayscale. • Color recognition mode switched on Each color in the embroidery pattern is detected to create cutting data. a a b b c a The parts for each color detected as a region are displayed in the list. a Region detection Select this option to detect the colored portions of a pattern as regions and create a cutting/ drawing lines around each region.
d Adjust the cutting/drawing lines. After making the desired adjustments, touch the “Set” key. a b 3 a Smoothing Smooths out curves and corners in the lines. Select from the four settings available: OFF, Low, Middle and High. OFF Middle b Grouping/Ungrouping When ungrouped, the parts can be edited separately. For details, see “Grouping/ Ungrouping Patterns” on page 44. The setting cannot be changed if there is only one shape. Memo • If the pattern contains unnecessary parts, ungroup it.
DRAWING FUNCTIONS With a pen and pen holder, you can draw patterns on material. Using the seam allowance settings also allows you to draw patterns with seam allowances on material and then cut them out. These drawing functions can be used to create quilt pieces. b c Remove the cap from the pen, and then insert the pen into the pen holder with the point down. Close the lid of the pen holder. Note • After use, remove the pen from the pen holder, and then attach the cap to the pen before storing it.
c Raise the scanner lever (on the left side of the machine) to “2”. Note • If the drawing pressure is too high, the pen tip may be damaged. Adjust it to an appropriate setting. Memo • Adjustments to the drawing pressure will affect the finished product. Use the same material that the pattern will be drawn on to make the adjustments. g d Load the mat with the material for drawing (cutting) attached. Touch the “Start” key to start drawing.
c Touch the “Object Edit” key in the object editing screen. f g d Touch Touch the “OK” key in the object editing screen, and then touch the “OK” key. Touch the “OK” key to finish editing the pattern. . The Seam Allowance screen appears. If appears in gray, the seam allowance cannot be applied. Memo • To draw the seam allowance on the wrong side of the fabric, flip the pattern. Image of Pattern Piece to be Created Memo a • Depending on the pattern, the seam allowance may be applied as a default.
h Check the pattern arrangement, and then touch the “OK” key. When using fabric, the patterns may not be cleanly cut if they are arranged near the edge of the fabric. In this case, move patterns so they are at least 10 mm from the fabric edge (the edge of the cutting/drawing area in the screen). • To re-edit the pattern arrangement after checking it, touch the "Edit" key. For details, see “Mat Layout Screen” on page 41. • Select the “Cut Area” setting appropriate for the mat being used. (See page 10.
■ Cutting a c Touch the "Start" key to start cutting. Select “Cut” in the preview screen. When cutting is finished, the preview screen appears. A preview of the line to be cut appears. d Press in the operation panel to feed out the mat. e Peel the patterns off the mat. • For details, see “Unloading the Mat” on page 27. b Remove the pen holder, and then install the blade holder. Note • After use, remove the pen from the pen holder, and then attach the cap to the pen before storing it.
b Fill Pattern Using Drawing Functions to Fill Patterns/Make Outlines Thicker Precautions for Using the Fill Function ● ● ● ● Depending on the material and pen being used, material drawn with a filled pattern may be difficult to peel off or may tear. Perform test/trial drawing with the pattern to be used in your project. An open pattern cannot be filled. Example: When fill settings are specified, the settings are applied to all patterns in the pattern layout screen.
c Additional Line Spacing Specify the spacing of the lines to be added. Note • Refer to the following examples when specifying settings for “Number of Additional Line” and “Additional Line Spacing”. a Number of Additional Line 1: One line added. c b Number of Additional Line 2: Two lines added. c c c Additional Line Spacing: Adjusts the line spacing. Increasing the line spacing creates a space between the lines. Memo • The drawing result differs depending on the thickness of the pen that is used.
Chapter 4 SCANNING FUNCTIONS SCANNING FOR CUTTING (Direct Cut) A printed image (paper/sticker), stamped paper or an original hand-drawn illustration can be scanned and its outline can be cut out or drawn. This is useful for scanning images for paper crafts, then cutting them out. b Press to turn on the machine. • For details, see “Turning On/Off the Machine” on page 8. c Install the cutting blade holder into the carriage of the machine.
d Select the scanning mode according to the material to be scanned. • First, test with grayscale recognition mode. If the desired cutting data is not created, test with color recognition mode. Memo • The edges of illustrations in a color of the same brightness as their background, as shown below, cannot be detected. In this case, use the color recognition mode. a a Background and illustration in colors with the same brightness.
e Attach the original that will be scanned to the mat. ■ Creating Cutting Data The procedure for creating cutting data differs depending on the mode. Grayscale recognition mode a Check the scanned image, and then touch the “OK” key. Memo • In “Direct Cut” mode, the scanning mat cannot be used. • Depending on the machine model, the sizes of mats that can be used will differ. Check the “Maximum Scanning Area” under “Machine Information” of the settings screen.
c Touch the “Preview” key to confirm the trimmed area. Color recognition mode a In the image trim screen, use the touch pen to drag to trim the image to the size to be imported, and then touch the “OK” key. Only the cutting lines appear. d Touch the “OK” key in the mat layout screen. Memo • Trimming the image to the desired size can reduce the amount of time required to convert it to cutting data. b • Touch the “Edit” key to fill patterns or make outlines thicker.
d Select “Cut” in the preview screen. e Touch the "Start" key to start cutting. original b Ignore Object Size Key Small unnecessary patterns (dotted lines, etc.) can be excluded from cutting data. For details, see “Specifying “Ignore Object Size”” on page 81. • For details on unloading the mat after cutting, follow the procedure under “Unloading the Mat” on page 27. 4 c Smoothing Setting Key Specify the level of smoothing applied to the image outline.
a Touch b . Select the shape of the cutting line. a c b The setting screen appears. b Touch or to change the setting. a Outlining Touch this key to create a cutting line that follows the outline of the scanned image. b Framing Touch the key for the desired frame to add it to the scanned image and create a cutting line that follows its shape. • If there are multiple images, a frame can be specified for each image.
CREATING CUTTING DATA (Scan to Cut Data) A printed pattern or image or an original hand-drawn illustration can be scanned, converted to cutting lines for cutting/drawing with this machine, then saved as data. ■ Scanning a b Tutorial 4 - Creating Cutting Data In this tutorial, we will save an illustration drawn on paper as cutting data. Touch the “Scan” key in the home screen to select the scanning mode. Select “Scan to Cut Data” in the scanning mode selection screen. A message appears.
b Color recognition mode The cutting data is created without converting the illustration to grayscale. Creating data in this mode may take some time. * The default color recognition setting is the grayscale recognition mode. d • Lightly insert the mat into the feed slot, and press in the operation panel. • For details on loading the mat, see “Loading the Mat” on page 26.
■ Creating Cutting Data Difference in cutting lines depending on detection standard The procedure for creating cutting data differs depending on the mode. Example 1 Grayscale recognition mode b c a Outline detection If you wish to cut/draw along the outline of an image, select this option to convert the outline of the image to a cutting line. This is useful for saving as data an illustration drawn for an appliqué.
b Use the touch pen (stylus) to touch and drag it around the screen to trim the cutting lines. c Select the detection standard in the image editing screen. The image shape is detected and cutting lines are created based on one of two standards. For this • When trimming is performed, the “OK” key changes to the “Preview” key. Touch the “Preview” key to confirm the trimmed area. example, touch to create cutting lines using region detection.
d Ignore Object Size Key Small unnecessary patterns (dotted lines, etc.) can be excluded from cutting data. For details, see “Specifying “Ignore Object Size”” on page 81. ■ Saving Data a Select the desired location. For this example, select the machine. e Smoothing Setting Key Specify the level of smoothing applied to the image outline. For details, see “Specifying Smoothing” on page 82. f OK Key Touch the “OK” key to apply the settings.
■ Retrieve Cutting Data Memo Saved cutting data can be retrieved for cutting. a Attach the material for cutting to the mat, and then load the mat. • For details on attaching the material, see “Attaching the material to the mat” on page 16. • For details on loading the mat, see “Loading the Mat” on page 26. b • Small spots and unwanted lines created during scanning can be deleted after a scanned image is converted to cutting data.
Adjusting Image Detection Levels The output levels of the scanned image data can be adjusted. Available in the following screen Tutorial 4; Step a (page 77) in “Grayscale recognition Image editing screen mode” or Step c (page 78) in “Color recognition mode” 1 Cutting line created 2 No cutting line created Touch the “OK” key to apply the settings. Touch to return to the previous screen without applying the settings. ■ Specifying “Ignore Object Size” Small unnecessary patterns (dotted lines, etc.
■ Specifying Smoothing Curves and corners in the image can be smoothed out. a b Touch in the function selection screen to display the smoothing setting screen. Touch or to specify the setting. • Four settings are available: OFF, Low, Middle and High. Setting to "Low" is suitable for smoothing the corner and straight line.
SCANNING IMAGES (Scan to USB) A pattern printed on paper or fabric, an image, a pattern template or an original hand-drawn illustration can be scanned and saved as image data on a USB flash drive. This is useful for saving the data of an original image as backup before cutting. b Touch the “Scan” key in the home screen to select the scanning mode. Notes on Scanning ■ Scanning Specifications c • Scanning format: Color • Saved file format: jpg Select “Scan to USB” in the scanning mode selection screen.
f i Select the size of the scanning area. From the list, touch the key for the size of the original to be scanned. For this example, select the A4 size. Check the settings, and then touch the “OK” key. b a c A message appears. a Size selection keys b Touch to cancel the setting and return to the previous screen. c Touch to scroll through the list. After the selected key is highlighted, touch the “OK” key to finish specifying settings.
d Touch the “OK” key to exit “Scan to USB” mode. Memo • Load the mat with the original to be scanned attached, and then touch to display the mat in the screen. The scanning area can be selected while viewing the displayed image. e Press in the operation panel to feed out the mat. f • On models compatible with 24-inch scanning, Remove the USB flash drive from the USB port (for a USB flash drive) on this machine. g From the mat size key ( a computer, check the saved image data.
c d Touch the “Scan Area” button to display the scanning area settings screen. Select the size of the scanning area. After the selected key is highlighted, touch the “OK” key to finish specifying settings. e Attach the material to be scanned onto the mat. f While holding the mat level, lightly insert it into the feed slot, and then press operation panel. in the • For details, see “Loading the Mat” on page 26. g Touch the “Start” key to start scanning.
Chapter 5 APPENDIX CONSUMABLES Replacement Criteria For the safe operation of this machine, replace the following consumables according to the replacement criteria. To purchase parts, contact the retailer who sold you this machine or the nearest authorized service center. For details on the optional accessories, see “OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES” on page 105. Replacing the Blade ■ Removing a Twist off the holder cap to remove it.
c Pull up the holder to leave the blade in the rubber area. b Twist on the holder cap to attach it to the holder. Fully tighten the cap until it can no longer be turned. ■ Installing a Grasp the shaft of the new blade, and then insert it into the blade slot in the end of the holder. The blade shaft is held in place by a magnet in the holder. Slowly insert the blade shaft, and then slowly release it after the shaft snaps into place against the magnet.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE Cleaning Note • Do not use alcohol or water to clean the mat. • When the mat is not being used, clean it, and then store it with the protective sheet affixed. If the protective sheet is not affixed, the mat’s adhesive strength will decrease. At that time, do not affix the protective sheet while the mat is damp. Otherwise, the mat’s adhesive strength will decrease. • Do not fold or bend the mat to store it.
b Using a commercially available brush, clean off cuttings, lint and dust. c Remove the holder from the carriage. Specifically clean off lint and dust around the blade. If lint and dust accumulate between the blade and holder, the blade may no longer rotate or the cutting quality may become poor. In addition, clean out any lint and dust that has accumulated in the cap. d c Attach the holder cap to the holder. For details on attaching the holder cap, see “Installing” on page 88.
e Cleaning the Scanner Glass Dampen a soft lint-free cloth with water and firmly wring it out, and then wipe the scanner glass inside the machine. If there are unwanted vertical lines in the scanned image or if scanning cannot be done cleanly, the scanning area of the scanner may have become dirty. Clean the scanner glass inside the machine. a Turn off the machine, unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet, and then disconnect the AC power cord from the AC power jack on the back of the machine.
Adjusting the Screen If the screen does not respond correctly when you touch a key (the machine does not perform the operation or performs a different operation), follow the steps below to make the proper adjustments. a Holding your finger on the LCD screen, turn the main power to off and back to on. Keep your finger on the LCD screen, until Brother logo disappears. Adjusting the Scanning/Cutting Position In “Direct Cut” mode, the cutting position can be automatically adjusted if it has shifted.
c Touch the “Scanning/Cutting Position Adjustment” button in the settings screen. The following message appears. g When the following message appears, touch the “OK” key. The adjustment is finished. Note • To return the settings to their defaults, touch the “Reset” key in the screen shown below. • Touch the “OK” key. d Press 5 to feed in the mat. • For details, see “Loading the Mat” on page 26. h Use “Direct Cut” mode to check the adjustment results.
Adjusting the Position of the Feed Roller For normal operations (when the optional roll feeder is not used), it is not necessary to adjust the position of the feed roller. If the feed roller is inadvertently moved, follow the procedure below to return it to its original position. For details on using the roll feeder, refer to the manual included with it. a b c d a Shaft b Feed roller : Move the feed roller to this position for normal operations.
TROUBLESHOOTING Please pay attention to all applicable safety warnings when referring to the sections cited below. If the machine stops operating correctly, check the following possible problems before requesting service. You can solve most problems by yourself. If you need additional help, the Brother Solutions Center offers the latest FAQs and troubleshooting tips. Visit us at “ http://s.brother/cpoac/ ”.
Symptom When the mat is inserted, the attached material peels off. Solutions Reference The mat is not level due to the weight of the material. Possible Causes (or Results) With your hands, hold the mat level when inserting it. page 26 The mat’s adhesive strength has decreased. Replace the mat with a new one. page 87 Paper/Fabric Jam Symptom The mat cannot be fed. The mat or the material catches on a feed roller when the mat is being inserted.
Symptom Possible Causes (or Results) Solutions page 23 If cutting is not possible even though the cutting pressure is set higher than necessary, the blade may be chipped. Replace the blade with a new one. page 87 The mat’s adhesive strength has decreased, or the material is not secured. Replace the mat with a new one. page 87 The blade is worn. Replace the blade with a new one. page 87 The material is incompatible with this machine. Replace the material with one compatible with this machine.
Drawing Symptom Possible Causes (or Results) Solutions Adjust the settings for “Draw Speed” and “Draw Pressure” in the settings screen. To draw thicker lines, increase the drawing pressure. To draw thinner lines, The drawing speed (“Draw Speed”) decrease the drawing pressure. The drawn line is thicker or drawing pressure (“Draw (thinner) than intended. To draw thicker lines, reduce the drawing Pressure”) is incorrect. speed. To draw thinner lines, increase the drawing speed.
ERROR MESSAGES The following table lists some of the messages that may appear while the machine is operating as well as their corresponding solutions. Perform the necessary operation according to the instructions in the message or the solution described here. If the problem persists, contact the retailer who sold you this machine or the nearest authorized service center. Error Messages Causes / Solutions A malfunction occurred. Turn the machine off, then on again. Turn the machine off, then on again.
Error Messages Causes / Solutions Perform one of the following to arrange the patterns. - Delete a pattern already arranged in the mat layout Not enough space on the mat. screen. Check pattern size, space on the mat, Cut Area (setting) or - Resize a pattern in the arrangement. Pattern Interval (setting). - Enlarge the setting for “Cut Area” (page 10). - Reduce the spacing between arranged patterns using the “Pattern Interval” setting. Not enough space on the mat.
Error Messages Causes / Solutions There are no patterns that can be detected. The imported SVG data contains data that cannot be converted, such as images or text. There are some patterns which cannot add seam allowance. The seam allowance settings cannot be specified for complex pattern shapes. Select a pattern with a simple shape. Expanding the seam allowance to 2 mm or more may help.
UPDATING THE SOFTWARE ■ Updating from the Settings Screen a The machine’s software can be updated with any of the following three procedures. ● Updating Using Automatic Update Function - Updating from the Home Screen - Updating from the Settings Screen ● Updating Using a USB Flash Drive ● Updating Using the Application (CanvasWorkspace) Touch in the home screen to display the settings screen, and then touch the “Ver.” button. The update method selection screen appears.
Update Procedure Using USB Flash Drive c Touch Using a USB flash drive, the machine’s software can be updated. For update information, refer to details posted on the Brother Solutions Center (http:// s.brother/cuoad/). If an update file is posted, download the file, and then update the machine according to the following procedure. a Insert the USB flash drive containing the update file into the USB port on this machine. The USB flash drive must not contain any data other than the update file.
c Start up CanvasWorkspace, and then click [Check for the Latest ScanNCut DX Update…] on the [Help] menu. When the following message appears, click [OK] to update the software. If there is no new update file, the following message appears. d 104 When the machine receives the update file, the following screen appears. When the update is finished, the machine automatically restarts.
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES The following are available as optional accessories to be purchased separately. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. No.
INDEX A AC power jack ...............................................................7 Advanced pattern cutting ............................................32 Aligning Patterns .......................................................... 47 Auto blade ...................................................................23 Auto shutdown ..................................................... 11, 12 B Background .................................................................10 Background scanning ...............
Please visit us at http://s.brother/cpoac/ where you can get product support and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs). These machines are approved for use in the country of purchase only. Local Brother companies or their dealers will only support machines purchased in their own countries.
