Cutting foam with a hobby plotter is not difficult at all, but I want to share my tips for success with you, in case you struggle.
- Use a proper sticky mat: don’t use the low-stick mat. A higher-rate sticky mat works better with foam. If the stickiness reduces, you can apply spray glue to make it stickier again. Too sticky? Use wet wipes and gently tap the surface to get the desired adhesion.
- Tape it down with painter’s tape: here, low quality will do. Taping down three sides (keep the entry-side of the mat free of tape, else the machine can’t read the mat!) is plenty to ensure adhesion. Skipping this step can mess up your foam pretty badly.
- Set the lever on the side to 2: raise the knife a bit, so the mat with the material will fit underneath.
- Set the machine to full cut: or else you have to do the rest yourself. Which is kinda missing the point.
- Be careful with using sharp objects to remove the cuttings: if you poke foam the hole will remain, which might negatively affect your project. And of course: don’t mess up and poke yourself! That’s worse!
Keep on crafting!
Amirine