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KLIC-N-KUT KNK Force User Manual

KLIC-N-KUT KNK Force
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The KNK Force with SCAL5 User Manual
http://knkusa.com/
February 24, 2019
Do NOT read this entire manual… unless you want to.
Chapters 1 and 2 are very important in terms of setting up your Force to work with SCAL and learning the
ins and outs of cutting.
Chapters 3 10 are specific to SCAL and present every function in the software, many of which you may
never need.
Chapter 11 is for those owners wanting to perform print and cut applications.
Chapter 12 covers the dual head feature and how to best use Force accessory tools.
Chapter 13 covers the Force rotary tool.
It’s not practical to print this entire manual because:
It’s a waste of paper and ink if you only ever need certain sections.
The live links to videos, blog posts, products, etc. will not work.
User manuals are updated from time to time (this current UM is based on SCAL 4.060).
You cannot search on individual words.
Also:
Having the Table of Contents continuously viewable makes navigation easier. It’s also useful to know how
to search for specific words or terms. Here is a link to a tutorial which covers how to do these two things:
How to Get the Most from your KNK UM.
Note the green icons which link to videos related to the section in which they are located. These
videos will enhance your learning.

Table of Contents

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KLIC-N-KUT KNK Force Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandKLIC-N-KUT
ModelKNK Force
CategoryCutter
LanguageEnglish

Summary

1. Introduction

1.01 Please Read!

Essential safety and setup information before using the Force with SCAL.

1.02 Safety and Warnings

Critical safety guidelines for operating the KNK Force cutter.

1.05 Support

Information on obtaining help, troubleshooting, and recommended resources.

2. KNK Force: Cutting

2.01 What You Need to Understand About Cutting

Foundational principles for successful cutting, including managing mistakes.

2.03 Cut Settings Details

In-depth explanation of each setting within the Cut Settings window.

2.06 Performing a Cut with the Blade Holder

Step-by-step guide for executing a cut using the blade holder.

2.07 Calibrating the Force’s Sizing Resolution

Procedure for calibrating the cutter's sizing accuracy for precise results.

3. SCAL: Installation, Preferences, and Workspace

3.01 Installing SCAL

Steps to download, install, and activate the Sure Cuts A Lot software.

3.04 Properties Panel

Overview of panels for manipulating objects and document settings.

3.05 Customizing the Properties Panel / Workspace

How to arrange, save, and manage interface panel layouts.

4. SCAL: Handling Files and Organizing Layers

4.01 Opening Files

Procedures for creating new projects and opening existing SCAL files.

4.03 Customizing the Library

Managing and organizing shapes, fonts, and projects within the Library.

4.04 Layers Panel

Managing project elements by assigning them to separate layers.

5. SCAL: Manipulating and Coloring Shapes

5.01 Basic Shapes

Adding and customizing geometric shapes directly on the cutting mat.

5.05 Resizing, Scaling, Auto fit

Adjusting the size, scale, and fit of shapes on the cutting mat.

5.11 Grouping and Ungrouping

Combining and separating selected shapes for easier manipulation.

5.14 Fill & Stroke: Fill

Applying colors, patterns, and gradients to shape fills.

6. SCAL: Working with Text

6.01 Text Options

Exploring the four modes for adding text to the cutting mat.

6.04 Four Modes of Text

Detailed explanation of Type Tool, Vertical Type, Type on Path, and Type on Arch.

6.10 Stenciling Letters

Techniques for creating stencils from text by connecting internal shapes.

7. SCAL: Tracing and Drawing

7.01 Raster versus Vector

Understanding the differences between raster and vector images for tracing.

7.03 Trace Function

Step-by-step guide to converting raster images into vector cut lines.

7.04 Draw Functions

Tools for creating custom vector paths using lines and curves.

7.05 Manual Tracing of an Imported Image

Method for manually tracing complex images to create vector cut lines.

8. SCAL: Editing

8.01 Simplify

Reducing the number of nodes in a shape for cleaner cuts.

8.05 Path Offset

Creating outlines or inlines around shapes for various effects.

8.07 Knife and Crop

Tools for dividing and trimming shapes into desired sections.

8.10 The Shape Tool - Path and Node Editing

Advanced manipulation of paths and nodes for precise shape editing.

9. SCAL: Designing

9.03 Guidelines

Using helper lines for precise placement and alignment of design elements.

9.06 Boolean Operations

Combining shapes using Union, Intersection, Exclude, Front/Back Minus.

9.07 Clip Path and Clip Mask

Using shapes to mask or cut other shapes based on their boundaries.

9.09 Object on Path

Aligning repeats of a shape along a defined path.

10. SCAL: Output

10.01 The Style Panel

Settings for cut/print appearance, including Shadow, Blackout, and Weld.

10.03 Printing

Steps for sending designs to a printer, including registration marks.

10.04 Weeding (SCAL PRO only)

Adding cut lines to facilitate vinyl weeding and material removal.

10.06 Cut Settings

Configuring cutter parameters like speed, depth, and tool for materials.

11. KNK Force: Print and Cut

11.01 What Is a Print And Cut (PNC)?

Introduction to the print and cut process using the Force's camera.

11.03 Camera Calibration Procedure

Steps to calibrate the camera for precise alignment of print and cut.

11.04 Preparing an Actual Print and Cut Application

Typical workflow for setting up and executing a print and cut project.

12. KNK Force: Dual Head Applications

12.02 Calibrating Two Tools for Alignment

Procedure for aligning multiple tools for dual-head operation.

12.03 General Guidelines When Using Accessory Tools

Best practices and tips for using various Force accessory tools.

12.06 Engraving

Techniques and settings for performing engraving with the Force.

13. KNK Force: Rotary Tool

13.01 Important Safety and Operating Considerations

Crucial safety measures and precautions for using the rotary tool.

13.04 Determining Settings for Cutting a New Material

Method for finding optimal cutting parameters for new materials.

13.05 Pen Test for Verifying CD/ED Before Cutting

Test procedure to ensure correct cutting depth and prevent mat damage.

13.09 Cutting

Important considerations and checklist for cutting with the rotary tool.