Beginner’s Guide: How to Use Likcut for Your First DIY Project

So, you’ve just unboxed your shiny new Likcut machine. Congratulations! You are holding a ticket to a world of limitless creativity. Whether you chose the portable Likcut S51, the family-favorite S41, or the professional S31, you’re ready to start making custom stickers, personalized gifts, and home decor.

But we get it—staring at a new machine can be a little intimidating. Where do I start? How does the blade work? What if I mess up?

Relax. We’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll walk you through your very first project: A Custom Vinyl Decal. It’s the perfect "Hello World" project for every DIYer.

Let’s get cutting!

Step 1: Get to Know Your Machine

Before we cut, let’s make sure you have the right tool for the job. Likcut machines are designed to be user-friendly alternatives to complicated competitors, but size matters:

• Likcut S51 (A5): The "Mini" beast. Perfect for planners, label making, and small stickers. [Shop Likcut S51]

• Likcut S41 (A4): The All-Rounder. Ideal for T-shirts, paper crafts, and most home DIYs. [Shop Likcut S41]

• Likcut S31 (A3): The Pro Studio. Built for large wall decals, bulk orders, and big ideas. [Shop Likcut S31]

(Not sure which one you need? Check out our comparison guide here!)

Step 2: Gather Your Supplies

For this first project, we are keeping it simple. You will need:

1. Your Likcut Machine (Plugged in and connected via Bluetooth/USB).

2. Adhesive Vinyl (Pick your favorite color!).

3. Transfer Tape (To move your design from the backing paper to your item).

4. Weeding Tool (To remove the excess vinyl).

5. A Blank Surface (A mug, a laptop, or a notebook).
   

Vinyl Cutter Machine Creator Bundle

Step 3: Design Your Graphics (The Smart Way)

Open the Likcut App/Software. You can use the shapes and assets provided in the library, but here is a Pro Tip for unlimited creativity:

💡 Use the SVG Import Feature! Want to use a specific font or a custom logo you designed in Canva, Inkscape, or Illustrator? No problem!

1. Design your text or image in your favorite design software.

2. Export it as an SVG file (make sure the background is transparent).

3. Click "Upload" in the Likcut App.

This method gives you 100% control over your fonts and designs, ensuring the cleanest cut lines possible.

Step 4: The "Cut" Moment

1. Load the Material: Place your vinyl on the cutting mat (shiny side up) and load it into the machine.

2. Settings: In the software, select "Vinyl" as your material.

   • Note: If you are using Likcut Vinyl, the default settings are perfect. If you are using a different brand, we recommend doing a small "Test Cut" first (a small triangle in the corner) to check the pressure.

3. Press Start: Watch the magic happen! Your Likcut S41 (or S51/S31) will precisely trace your design.

Step 5: Weeding & Transferring

This is the most satisfying part (ASMR lovers, get ready).

1. Weed: Use your weeding tool to peel away the vinyl you don't want (the negative space). You should be left with just your design on the backing paper.

2. Transfer: Cut a piece of Transfer Tape the size of your design. Peel the backing off the tape and place it sticky-side down onto your vinyl design. Use a scraper to burnish (rub) it firmly.

3. Apply: Peel the transfer tape up—your design should come with it! Place it onto your mug or laptop. Rub it firmly again, then slowly peel away the transfer tape at a 45-degree angle.

Voila! You just made your first custom product. ✨

3 Beginner Tips for Success

1. Clean Your Surface: Before applying vinyl, wipe your mug or laptop with rubbing alcohol. This removes oils and ensures the sticker lasts for years.

2. Don't Toss Scraps: Save small pieces of vinyl for the S51 machine—it’s perfect for using up scraps!

3. Join the Community: Stuck? Need inspiration? Join our community of makers.

Ready to Share?

We want to see what you created! Whether it’s a simple name label or a complex decal, your first project is special.

Snap a photo or video and tag us on Instagram or TikTok @Likcut_Official. Use the hashtag #LikcutCreated for a chance to be featured on our page (and maybe win some free vinyl 😉).

Still need supplies? [Shop All Likcut Products]