# VinylCut 5 — design tools (software-only)

VinylCut-only design toolbox. Practice on Monitor-PC without a cutter. Prefer AM softwaretraining mini-series.

## Shape tool + Bézier / nodes

Vector editing is core: manipulate paths so cuts weed cleanly.

| Part | Focus | Training |
|------|--------|----------|
| 1 | Shape tool overview | [overview](https://softwaretraining.co.za/an-overview-look-at-the-shape-tool-and-its-features-part-1-using-vinylcut-5) |
| 2 | Add / delete / move nodes | [nodes](https://softwaretraining.co.za/using-the-shape-tool-part-2-add-delete-and-move-node-points-in-vinylcut-5) |
| 3 | Bézier curve handles | [curves](https://softwaretraining.co.za/how-to-control-the-bezier-curves-with-the-shape-tool-part-3-in-vinylcut-5) |

Index: [Shape tool mini-series](https://softwaretraining.co.za/how-to-use-the-shape-tool-within-vinylcut-5-software-mini-series-video-index).

**Practice:** draw a closed shape → convert/edit nodes → smooth a corner → save.

## Trace image (raster → vector)

Auto-trace converts bitmaps into cut paths. Complex at first; high leverage once dialled in.

Index (10 parts): [Trace image mini-series](https://softwaretraining.co.za/the-trace-image-feature-within-the-vinylcut-5-software-mini-series-video-index)

Coverage map:

1. Good rules before tracing  
2. Properties panel overview  
3. Input properties  
4–5. Output settings  
6. Preview settings  
7. Monochrome mode  
8. Colour layers mode  
9. Single colour mode  
10. Mask cut-lines (add/remove)

Also useful: compare vinyl vs laser-trace workflows on AM training ([trace difference index](https://softwaretraining.co.za/vinylcut-vs-trucut-rdworks-the-trace-difference-mini-series-video-index)) — keep VinylCut conclusions in this folder only.

**Practice:** import a simple PNG logo → monochrome trace → clean stray nodes → weld if needed.

## Nest

Packs shapes to **max pieces / min vinyl**.

| Part | Focus |
|------|--------|
| 1 | Nest settings overview |
| 2 | Practical preview |

Index: [Nest mini-series](https://softwaretraining.co.za/covering-the-nest-feature-using-vinylcut-5-software-mini-series-video-index).

**Practice:** duplicate several shapes → nest → compare waste vs hand layout.

## Distribute / align

Even spacing across the page or within a selection.

| Part | Focus |
|------|--------|
| 1 | Distribute to page |
| 2 | Distribute to selection |

Index: [Distribute mini-series](https://softwaretraining.co.za/distribute-objects-within-the-design-using-vinylcut-5-mini-series-video-index).

## Border frames

Build non-rectangular frames (base shape → decorations → combine).

Index: [Border frames mini-series](https://softwaretraining.co.za/creating-unique-border-frames-in-vinylcut-5-software-mini-series-video-index).

## Text, weld, styles

From product capability list + AM benefits pages:

- TrueType / OpenType fonts installed on Windows.
- **Weld** overlapping letters/shapes into one cut path (signage letters).
- Styles such as **Shadow** and **Blackout** for effect layers.
- Text tool depth: search softwaretraining for VinylCut text / font videos (e.g. choosing fonts).

## Rhinestones (optional craft track)

Index: [Rhinestones mini-series](https://softwaretraining.co.za/how-to-use-rhinestones-within-the-vinylcut-5-software-mini-series-video-index). Skip if shop focus is signage-only.

## Power weeding / cut-assist design habits

- Design with weeding in mind: bridges, minimum feature size, avoid hairline islands.
- VinylCut can generate weeding aids (AM “weeding made easy” / power weeding capability).
- Softwaretraining also covers a dedicated weeding tool video — watch before first live vinyl.

## Registration marks (software prep only)

For later print-then-contour: place/use registration marks in the design; mark **order** matters by cutter family when hardware arrives. AM notes 5.030 installer improves mark-order options vs earlier 5.02x builds (Monitor-PC is on **5.028** — see questions-for-eric version pin).

Training pointer: `sources/training/vinylcut-5-030-registration-marks.md` (export tree) · contour overview [vinylcut.co.za/contour-cutting](https://vinylcut.co.za/contour-cutting).

## Design checklist before opening Cut settings

1. Closed paths where vinyl must weed as one piece.  
2. Stroke none (unless intentional outline cut).  
3. Style set for cut (not accidental Draw).  
4. Correct real-world size on the mat.  
5. Colours separated if multi-colour vinyl (cut-by-colour later).  
6. Nested / tiled if material or width requires it.  
7. Project saved.

Updated: 2026-09-05 (SAST).