What is PixScan™ technology, and more importantly, how do you use it?
PixScan™ technology allows you to cut precisely around any printed image or position cut lines in a specific location on your material using a camera or scanner. Now, let’s discuss what you can do with PixScan™ technology.
What you can do with PixScan™ Technology
When it comes to using PixScan™ technology, the opportunities are endless!
PixScan™ technology is perfect for digitizing a stamp collection, magazine tears or turning a hand-drawn sketch into a cut or sketch files. The must-have PixScan™ mat is equipped with a tough tack that safeguards fabrics and other light crafting materials.
NOTE: This mat only works with the Cameo and Version 3.1 (or higher) software (sold separately).
PixScan™ technology can also be used to turn photos, images or design patterns back to their original size. Once digitized, you can use design files duplicated with PixScan™ technology within your Silhouette Studio® and Cameo projects. The PixScan™ technology also allows you to add customized borders and frames to professionally printed invitations in two different size formats:
- 8-1/2" x 11" for Cameo Cutters
- 7-1/2" x 11" for both Cameo or Portrait Cutters
How-to use PixScan™ Technology
Now, it’s time to learn how to use it. Start by watching this Silhouette AmericaPixScan™ tutorial video.
Next, read the step-by-step instructions from The First Cut – The Official Silhouette America Blog, listed below. Then, you’re done!
Next, read the step-by-step instructions from The First Cut – The Official Silhouette America Blog, listed below. Then, you’re done!
- Place the photo or image you want to cut out on your PixScan™ mat. Press down so that your image is stuck securely to the mat. Take a picture using your smartphone or scan in your PixScan™ mat. For optimal results, when photographing or scanning the PixScan™ mat, ensure that no zoom is used, your lighting is even, the entire mat is clearly visible in the image, the PixScan™ mat is flat, and the cut media is contained within the black cut border.
- Click on the PixScan™ icon in the Silhouette Studio®. Select “Import from File” or “Import from Scanner.” A window will pop up for you to navigate. Select your image and click “Open.”
- Once you have your PixScan™ image loaded, you are ready to create or place your cut lines. Trace your image or manually add cut lines where you want your machine to cut. Delete any excess cut lines that you do not need. You also can add an offset line to your design.
- Choose your cut settings according to the material on your mat.
- Send your project to your Silhouette machine and watch the magic happen.
And…that’s it! It’s super easy to cut whatever you want with the PixScan™ feature. Use it to cut photos, drawings, cardstock, or whatever else you can think of!
Once you complete a project using PixScan™ technology, share it with us on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram or Twitter…and don’t forget to tag us @craftercuts or use hashtag #craftercuts in your caption.
To shop for PixScan™ mats or browse our Silhouette Bundles, click here to visit our website! For more tips and Silhouette project ideas subscribe to our blog for weekly Craftercuts news, tips and updates.