Come And Join Me In My Creativity Zone

Come and join me in my Creativity Zone where you can enjoy fun and challenging card design ideas that will inspire you to learn new techniques to maximize the use of your craft tools, most especially the Silhouette Cameo machine along with the Silhouette Studio Designer software, and truly enjoy your crafting to the fullest.

All my files are shared for free, ONLY with my blog followers. The files are in Silhouette Studio format. They are for PERSONAL use only and must not be redistributed. You can share by directing people to the link of the project/post on my blog. Thank you for your compliance.

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

The CB09 (Aluminum) Blade Holder

CB09 blade holder
Finally!!! Here is the long overdue promise to post all the information I had gathered regarding the CB09 blade holder, otherwise popularly known as the aluminum blade holder, which is an alternative blade holder for the Silhouette Cameo machine, the Portrait machine and the older model, the Silhouette SD machine.


Cameo machine with the CB09 blade holder
Although I was perfectly happy with my Silhouette SD machine, I just couldn’t resist the temptation and upgraded to the Silhouette Cameo last November. But before I did, I made sure that my beloved CB09 blade holder will work perfectly well with the Cameo just as it did with my Silhouette SD. I have to admit that I was a bit apprehensive initially even after being assured by a couple of Silhouette dealers but after just one try, my beloved CB09 blade holder was cutting perfectly like butter with my Cameo. Happy dance, happy dance, happy dance!!! 




Cameo with the Silhouette ratchet blade holder
The CB09 blade holder and the Silhouette ratchet blade holder
Please note that although I had a problem with my Silhouette blade holder that came with my Cameo machine, it did cut perfectly as well as the replacement sent by Silhouette America. The problem I had was not with the blade itself but with the mechanism of the ratchet that somehow got loose that caused the blade not to protrude no matter which setting I turned it to. I never had any problem with the replacement blade sent to me. I actually like the much improved Silhouette ratchet blade holder as it cuts just as well as my aluminium blade holder. The only reason why I opted to use the CB09 blade holder is because the blades are a fraction of the cost of the Silhouette blades and last longer.

The Difference Between the Silhouette Blade Holder and the CB09 Blade Holder

The blades used for the old Silhouette blade holder, the new Silhouette ratchet blade holder and the CB09 blade holder are all the same kind of blade. The difference among these 3 blade holders is the housing mechanism which determines the blade setting. The old Silhouette blade holder (3 colored caps set-up) and the new Silhouette ratchet blade holder both have predetermined blade settings while the CB09 blade holder does not. The user needs to determine the desired setting relative to the material being cut by turning the adjustment knob at the end of the holder which allows for far greater flexibility in the settings adjustment. It's a bit of a learning curb initially but once you get familiar with your desired settings, it becomes second nature. I've been using the CB09 blade holder for more than a year now now and I've never had any problems with it.

Important tip: I suggest starting with the same amount of blade protrusion (exposure) as with the Silhouette blade at number 3 and start from there. You may need to go a tad more but not a whole lot. The less blade exposure, the better. Take a very close look at the photo below. The Silhouette ratchet blade holder is at a setting of '3'. This is how much blade exposure you would like for the CB09 blade holder for cutting medium to heavy card stock (up to 220 gsm). Once you've determined the accurate setting and are able to achieve the desired clean cuts, you don't ever need to make any further adjustment on the blade depth in the blade holder unnecessarily. If you need to cut different kind of material, all you need to do is adjust the cut settings in the Silhouette Studio program, NOT the CB09 blade holder. If cutting heavier materials, you'll get cleaner cuts by simply checking 'double cut' instead of exposing the blade further out in the blade holder.



The 3 Different Blade Angles: 30, 45 and 60 Degrees

There are 3 types of blades classified by the varying angles of the blade:: 30, 45, and 60 degrees. The colored caps are merely used to protect the tip of the blade and the colors are not a standard in determining the particular angle of the blade. For my personal use, I assigned the colors as indicated below. The second photo clearly shows the difference in the angle of the blade.




The primary rationale for the the different angles is cutting depth. A lower angle is ideal for cutting thinner materials while a steeper angle can penetrate deeper and is therefore better suited for cutting thicker materials and designs with more detail as the finer pointed tip can easily maneuver the constant curves and turns of an intricate design.

Points to consider:

An increased amount of blade dragging through the material when cutting fine detail can cause, what is called, vinyl ears (parts lifted up). With minimal blade in the material, a 60 degree blade tends to cause fewer, if any, vinyl ears. Technically speaking, using a 60 degree blade on everyday cutting is a waste of a blade. Less of the blade's cutting area is used, and blade life is wasted. The more horizontal cutting orientation of the 45 degree blade accurately distributes the cutting task over a larger blade area, and thus lasts longer.

It boils down to how much of the blade edge is in contact with the media. The cutting is either performed by a tiny section of the blade or dispersed along a larger section. The edge of the 60 degree blade is more perpendicular to the media therefore the contact spot on the edge must do all the work which makes the blade get dull a lot faster. The edge of the 45 degree blade runs more parallel to the media and the cutting wear is spread over a larger section of the blade which makes it stand a better chance for smoother cuts.

Generally:
30 degrees blade - used for thinner material
45 degrees blade - used for medium to heavy materials
60 degrees blade - used for thicker material and more detailed designs

I only cut regular card stocks so I've only been using the 45 degrees blade.

CB09 Blade Holder Assembly


Unfortunately, the CB09 blade holder does not come with any instructions that's why I made a photo tutorial which I shared on the Silhouette Users Yahoo group. These are exactly the same photos:




























The CB09 blade holder is compatible with all the models of Silhouette machines. Here is a comparison of the cuts between the Silhouette auto blade and CB09 using the Cameo 3:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fsjtMElL5dU

How to put the blade in the blade holder:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4EVRb7L-V3o&feature=youtu.be

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCJhVxqaTh8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpjIgtHgsv4

How to adjust the blade setting for cutting depth:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=endscreen&NR=1&v=Ws7EwSR-Z-Y

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQsv0d4FOcU

https://signoftimess.wordpress.com/2015/05/16/blade-depth-and-pressure/

***If the 'hand' of your mouse pointer does not appear when you click on the links above, simply select the complete address and right click on your mouse and click on 'go to......'

Happy crafting,
Ligaya

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UPDATE: August 9, 2012:

I bought my second CB09 blade holder and experienced the same problem shared by some users. The blade holder did not go through the slot of the machine as smoothly as it should. The vendor was willing to replace it but he made me try polishing it with a fine sandpaper and that actually solved the problem. Another user form Europe had the same problem which was fixed with the same solution. She posted this on her blog which I posted as a comment to this post to add the link to her blog where she posted photos of the problem and how she fixed it. Another user, a friend of mine, had the same problem, too, and because she didn't have any sandpaper handy, she simply used her nail file (emery board) which worked perfectly.The holder should glide in as easily as the Silhouette blade holder. It should not be forced into the slot. If you encounter the same problem and polishing fails, please let the vendor know and he will replace it.

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UPDATE July 4, 2013

I just want to share the experience of a new user of the CB09 blade holder, Debbie. I read her comment in the Silhouette Plus Group which had a link to her blog post. Debbie is a great designer and shares her files for free just like I do. She does many great projects and I consider her an authority and value her opinion when it comes to the use of  the Silhouette Cameo machine and the Studio sotfware. She has some valuable information on the CB09 blade holder: http://www.paperpulse.blogspot.com/2013/06/a-better-and-less-expensive-blade.html. By coincidence, her friend, Kim Bell, mentioned on her blog was the same lady from the USA that I helped with her CB09 blade holder. Kim sent me the supposedly CB09 blade holder that she purchased from a supplier in the USA. She was through the roof with her frustration with this blade holder as it would not cut any card stock. When I got the blade holder, I immediately saw that it is not the correct CB09 blade holder. I sent back the holder to her so she can return it to the store. She asked me the favor of ordering the CB09 blade holder for her from my eBay supplier and set it up for her. She sent me samples of card stocks that she uses like Stampin' Up, Recollections and Copic Paper, all of which are very thick, about 220 gsm. The CB09 did, of course, cut all these like butter. See the posted comment of Kim Bell below.

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UPDATE: August 1, 2013 - Success With The 60 Degrees Blade

Please see my post regarding my successful use of the 60 degrees blade in cutting a cereal box. Not only was I successful in cutting a thicker material, I also discovered how much better the 60 degrees blade is in cutting intricate designs with very fine lines. I've only been using the 45 degrees all along until yesterday when I was getting frustrated with a particular vine design which I had to reduce into a small size to fit nicely over the shutters of a window card I'm trying to finish. For some reasons, I could not get a perfect cut with this particular design with my new 45 degrees blade so I thought of using my 60 degrees blade. OMG, I was amazed how perfect the cut was with one pass and I did not even need to weed any part. The vine literally fell off by itself from the negative of the card stock. Really amazing!!! I've always known that the 60 degrees blade is good for intricate designs as well as thicker materials as reported above in my research but since I've always been successful with my 45 degrees blades, I never bothered with the 60 degrees blades until now. I now use the 60 degrees regularly for designs with very intricate designs and for thicker card stocks.

Ideally, you should maintain at least 2 blade holders, one for the 45 degrees blade for cutting regular cardstocks and the other for the 60 degrees blade for cutting thicker materials like the cereal box. This way, you don't need to fiddle with your CB09 blade holder blade adjustment every time you shift between material types. For intricate cuts on regular cardstock, you can simply replace the 45 degrees blade with the 60 degrees blade without the need to readjust the blade setting. If adjustments need to be made, they can be done on your Silhouette Studio cut settings.

Love love love the 60 degrees blade!!! Happy dance!!!

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UPDATE: February 25, 2015

Here is an exciting update for CB09 users by Debbie from Paper Pulse Blog. A fellow CB09 user, Pete, shared a wonderful idea on the use of the CB09 on the Silhouette Plus forum. He came up with a template for a numbered settings for the CB09 which is pretty much the same as the Silhouette ratchet blade. He even shared the template which is a Silhouette Studio file which you can download from Debbie's Paper Pulse Blog. I have not tried Pete's idea yet.

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UPDATE October 1, 2015 - VERY IMPORTANT UPDATE - No need to polish down CB09 blade holder that won't fit in the Silhouette machine

For those who find their CB09 blade holder unable to fit into the blade holder slot of their Silhouette machine, you can simply remove the knob by pulling it out and slide the blade holder into the slot and then put back the knob and lock it securely. The old Cameo model has the knob in blue color, it works exactly the same way. Thank you so much to the Silhouette School for making this video and sharing it. Now we know that there is actually no need to sand/polish down the CB09 blade holder to fit the Silhouette machine. The video also shows how to put the blade in the blade holder and turn the screw for blade adjustment.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpjIgtHgsv4

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UPDATE October 1, 2015 - Putting the numbered setting marker on the CB09

You can download the Studio file for the template on the number setting guide for the CB09 from Paper Pulse Blog. Here is a video tutorial:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a1wTnbV2AG0

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UPDATE November 7, 2015 - Incorrect CB09 Blade Holder

Please be warned of an incorrect 'CB09' blade holder. I found this video demonstrating the difference between the correct CB09 and incorrect one. I'm aware of the difference in the hole size as someone sent me her blade holder to compare with mine which turned out to be the CB15 based on the much larger blades. The CB09 blades just falls off the hole of the CB15 blade holder. I was not able to measure the hole size. The one with the bigger hole in the video may be the CB15 which has exactly the same appearance as the CB09 and although it can also fit in the Cameo (and Portrait), it won't work as it is meant for cutting machines with so much more powerful cutting force. The correct CB09 blade when fitted in the correct CB09 blade holder is positioned in the center of the hole and although the blade moves around freely, it stays right in the center and will not fall off the holder.

Demonstrating an incorrect CB09 blade holder:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0J1ypAUIgkQ

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I would love to hear your feedback on this. Please post your comment below.

Happy crafting!

Ligaya



173 comments:

  1. Thank you for the very clear explanation of the various blade angles. Each time I have thought about an aluminum blade holder I was stumped about which blade to order. Now I can be an informed shopper. Waiting to review the tutorial on assembly until I have the blade holder and blade in front of me.

    Thank you for taking your time to help all of us.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I have to admit using the same Aluminum Blade that you are using, after realising that every time I did another cut using my Cameo Blade; I found myself increasing the Ratchet number when I was cutting the same material. I have heard on the Silhouette grapevine that there is a Blade re-design going on, but they need to hurry up and get the New Blade Design on the Market.

    ReplyDelete
  3. This is a great tut. I didn't know there was an alternative blade holder. I am having a lot of trouble with the ratchet filling up with loose paper and the blade seeming to not want to rotate. I am going to give this a try.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Thanks Gayle for this excellent writeup. I am a newbie to the Cameo and still a lot to learn,

    ReplyDelete
  5. Thanks for this excellent tut.

    Greetings,
    Jogry/bali

    ReplyDelete
  6. Thank you Gayle you are the best.

    Creative Hugs,
    Lola

    ReplyDelete
  7. Having virtually abandoned my Silhouette SD due to poor results from the new ratchet blade, I have followed your advice and purchased the aluminium blade holder. I am still in the learning stage with it (it took several tries before I realised that brute force was needed to get it into the machine) but already I am seeing the difference. Thank you for your excellent tut on fitting and using this device. I might also add that the supplier you recommend has given more than excellent service and I will certainly buy from her again. Ann

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Ann. My friend had the same problem in having to force the aluminum blade holder into her her Silhouette SD. The vendor suggested filing the rim of the aluminum blade holder with sandpaper and it worked. My friend didn't have any sandpaper handy so she used her nail file (emery board) and it worked. This solved her problem. Try it.

      Delete
  8. This is a great tut, wish I had read it a week ago. I purchased a new holder called

    Click Blade Holder, I am not having much success with it and cannot get the seller to return my emails. It has the same 3 blades as the aluminum holder but it looks exactly like the one used in the cricut. Thanks for sharing you experiences.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Here is a good feedback from a new user of the aluminum blade holder: http://linetn.blogspot.com/2012/05/mesje-silhouette-cameo.html

    ReplyDelete
  10. i finally got my blade and I love it! it helps a lot to read this entire review, and to watch the videos. I did my first cut on a STAPLES DOUBLE SIDED MATTE PHOTO PAPER (yups, it's thick) and I couldn't be more impressed! I love that the holder fit nicely in my SD... (i have yet to try it in my cameo) and most especially, i love that the blades are cheap! One of my best purchases! I love it!!!

    ReplyDelete
  11. Gayle, I still have my Silhouette SD, and use the 3 color caps/blade pin combo that came with it. Do you have any information regarding how I could 'copy' the blade depths of those caps for cutting various thicknesses? Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. So, you have the aluminum blade holder? In my experience, when I was still using my Silhouette SD with the 3-colored caps and started using the aluminum blade holder, I followed the depth of the pink cap as a guide but had to go a tad (or two) deeper, i.e., I adjusted the blade of the aluminum blade holder allowing for more protrusion or exposure adjusting bit by bit until I got the perfect cut. More blade protrusion than necessary doesn't mean better cuts, in fact, I find that when I give the blade more exposure than necessary, it cuts very badly.

      Once you've achieved the correct setting in your blade holder, you don't need to start all over again when you change your blade. You maintain the the same setting as the blade holder is already locked to that position. Please note that the quality of the blades may differ sometimes so you may need to make JUST A TINY BIT of adjustment by turning hte knob at the end of the holder VERY SLIGHTLY.

      For the varying thickness of materials used, I make the adjustment in the Studio 'Silhouette Cut Settings' (not the blade holder) manipulating the speed and most especially the thickness, clicking on the 'double cut' if needed, and choosing the correct material used under 'Custom Media'.

      I was initially intimidated and didn't have a clue on how to use the aluminum blade holder when I first got it over a year ago. But I practiced a lot using different card stock and various intricate designs until I got the hang of it the very first day I used it. As you'll see on my blog, I cut a lot of intricate designs and I only use the aluminum blade holder and nothing else.

      Hope this helps.

      Delete
    2. I want to know how to keep the mat sticky? I've had alot of trouble with my Silhouette cutting machine.The mat want last but two to twenty cuts. I just keep practing with the paper weights and I also get paper in that pink thing please help. caron

      Delete
    3. I want to help you and answer your questions but you forgot to give me your e-mail address and as you can see from your comment, you posted anonymously. I hope that you'll think of going back to this post to see why I haven't answered you.

      Delete
  12. Gayle, I am new also and this has been a great learning exp. for me. I am going to order the blades and hope I can get better cuts.

    ReplyDelete
  13. this is amazing thank you so much

    ReplyDelete
  14. Replies
    1. If you know that the Silhouette blade can cut fondant then the CB09 blades can, too, as they are exactly the same blade. I only cut card stock and pattern and textured paper. i suggest that you ask this question on the various forums dealing with the Silhouette.

      Delete
  15. Dear Friend
    I read your post about this holder and blade. I bought two at once (I have two cameo), but unfortunately they do not cut thick cardboard, just do not cut it (as if they did not have enough power) While plastic cope with it easily (((((What to do I'm so in they had hoped ....
    Maybe doing something wrong, tried all settings ... the double cutting barely cuts (not completely)
    Please help, what to do?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Yegor.

      I just answered your e-mail. You did not specify in your e-mail as you did on your comment here that you were trying to cut thick cardboard. The limitation of the capability of cutting heavier media is not on the blade holder but on the Silhouette Cameo machine which can only cut up to 230 gsm card stock. Silhouette has always been clear about this from the start. You may have heard of the Zing machine (was released around the same time as the Silhouette Cameo last year) which can cut up to 750 gsm material and uses exactly the same blades used for the CB09 blade holder. The Zing machine comes with the click blade holder system which is very similar to the CB09 blade holder. The CB09 blade holder can also be used with the Zing machine.

      The next model to the CB09 blade holder is the CB15 blade holder which is for stronger cutting machines. The CB15 can cut so much thicker and heavier materials but then again, it just depends on the capability of the cutting machine. I was told that the CB15 blade holder can fit in the Cameo machine but it will be useless as the Cameo is limited to a maximum force of 230 gsn.

      I have heard of a couple of Cameo owners using the CB09 blade holder who claims to be able to cut light chipboard but they have yet to show their work.

      Gayle

      Delete
  16. Really interested in all comments, but I don't live in the US but would like to purchase this blade housing, it's not on eBay here in UK, can anyone help

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kindly e-mail me so I can hook you up with the vendor. I believe he ships internationally. He ships mine directly here in the Philippines.

      Delete
    2. Hope you'll read my replies to your comment. Your problem solved! I e-mailed the vendor and he does ship to Europe for only US$2.99. You can order it from the link on my blog post If you have more questions, you can contact the eBay vendor (his name is Liu) directly: liutianxia2@gmail.com.

      My e-mail address: ligayatg@yahoo.com

      Delete
  17. Hi gayle, I really appreciate you taking the time to reply to my comment, I will certainly contact the seller, it would make a difference regarding the cost, to purchase a blade housing here in the UK is £14 sterling and that is the one recommended by Cameo with the single blade which you cannot change, I have read that these types of housings can be too heavy for the carriage of the machine, have you found this. Janice

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Janice. I have not found the weight of the metal blade holder to have any impact on the carriage of the machine. I observed the flow of the movement between the metal blade h9older and the Silhouette blade holder and didn’t find any difference. Wow, the cost of the Silhouette ratchet blade in UK is more than double the price in the US ($12.99). That's way too expensive for something that you need to constantly change. Please feel free to e-mail me if you have any other concerns.

      Delete
    2. Hi Gayle, I have just ordered my blade holder from the contact you advised, I look forward to receiving it - cant wait once agin many thanks for a great post, I will get back when it arrives with good feedback I hope!!! Regards Janice

      Delete
    3. You're welcome, Janice. Again, just please let me know if you need any help when you get your blade holder.

      Delete
    4. Hi Gayle

      Just a short note to let you know that I received my blade holder and blades ths week, it only took 2 weeks to arrive and I m just delighted, thank you so much for pointing me in the right direction, for any other crafter who may be a bit apprehensive I ordering this and live in the UK, h please go ahead you won't be disappointed

      Delete
    5. Hi Gayle
      Have tried with small success using my aluminium blade holder, it works for about one or two cuts and then won't cut all the way through, I have purchased blades from another supplier just in case, but the same problem, I have adjusted the blade depth both high and low with the same results, I just don't know what is wrong, my cameo blade works perfectly but when I install the aluminium holder

      Delete
    6. Sorry Gayle Janice again I am having difficulty typing my message to you, the last post stopped halfway, can you assist with my strange problem. Regards Janice

      Delete
    7. From: Janice Owen
      To: Gayle Galura
      Sent: Sunday, April 14, 2013 1:49 AM
      Subject: Re: Aluminium blade holder

      Hi again Gayle.

      Well as I mentioned I practiced yesterday afternoon with the aluminium holder and I have to say I had a lot if success, I cut a number of things including a really detailed leaf design which cut beautifully, with my cameo I use both my cricut and cameo mats they both work equally well, but with the aluminium blade the cameo mat is best so maybe that has been the problem.

      I really don't know what has happened to make it to have worked this time but fingers crossed, if it fails again then I have the original blade to fall back on.

      Many thanks for your correspondence

      Janice

      Delete
  18. Hi! May I ask how much it will cost to have it shipped here in Manila? I'm really interested in this? Can the blade cut Bazzil cardstock? I think that's what ruined my Sil blade. Am also annoyed of the papers that get stuck in the orig sil blade housing. Glade there's this option. Thanks for your post. :)

    ReplyDelete
  19. I paid $2.99 to have mine shipped here in Angeles City. Yes, I'm able to cut Bazzill with it, opting for double cut. I'm actually currently making a thank you card using the bitter chocolate Bazzill cardstock which I'll be posting shortly. You're welcome :)

    ReplyDelete
  20. Hi! I just purchased a new Cameo - but I have a bunch of the old original blades (SILH-BLADE-01) from the original Silhouette. Do you have any idea if this blade holder will work with the above mentioned blades? Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No, the blades for the CB09/aluminum blade holder won't work with the 3-colored cap Silhouette blade holder. Actually, they use exactly the same blade which is adhered permanently to a pin which holds it in place inside the colored cap of the old Silhouette blade holder. Without the pin, the mechanism of the colored-cap holder doesn't have anything to hold the CB09 blade in place. I think the same blade is used also for the new Silhouette ratchet blade holder, they just made it permanently attached so you need to change the whole thing when the blade gets dull.

      Delete
  21. Hi Gayle. Thanks for sharing all your valuable knowledge and expertise. I have struggled with getting my sd to cut properly since I bought it to no avail. I can't wait to try the CB09. Just FYI the eBay seller, who ships internationally, now charges $2.99 shipping on the blade holder unit and $1.99 additional on the blades which are now a 5 pack for $15 so still about $3.40 each but the important thing is you have something that hopefully works for you which I have never had. I just hope I can master the setting part. I am a little nervous about that. Thanks again for taking the time to educate us. It is much appreciated.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Gayle, you've saved me from tossing my machine! The aluminum blade holder and your tutorial have saved me. The blade holder works and is now the only holder I use. My cuts are so clean and my choice of paper seems limitless. Your tute is clear and was very easy to understand. Thank you so much. Linda

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That's great to know, Linda. Thanks for your post and sharing your experience.

      Delete
  23. hi gayle,

    is the seller is based in the philippines?

    ReplyDelete
  24. No, the seller is based in China. I just ordered another blade holder and extra blades for another blog follower residing in New York who asked me the favor of setting the right adjustment for her. She had a terrible experience with the same blade holder she bought from a US based vendor which won't cut properly no matter what adjustment she tried it with. She sent the blade holder to me and when I saw it, although the blade holder looks exactly the same, the blade is so much bigger than the the CB09 blades. I tried to put my CB09 blade but it just slips through the end wont' hold in place as the hole is way too big. I tried her blade with my CB09 holder but it can't even get through as it is way too big. The blade holder that she got may be the same one that the other users got who were frustrated that it just wouldn't cut through any paper. I'll be updating my post to add the information and photos that I took of the said blade holder in comparison of the real CB09 blade holder. She also sent me scraps of various card stocks to try to cut with my CB09 blade holder like Stampin' Up, Recollections, Copic Paper, all of which I was able to cut perfectly without any problem. These paper are thicker than Bazzil. I took some photos which I will also be adding on my post.

    ReplyDelete
  25. Dear Liagaya,

    I am so glad I found your blog and your post on the aluminum blade holder! I have the cameo and feel that the blade is really expensive to replace. Please give me the contact for the vendor of the blade holder.

    Thank you so much for your help.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Jaz Loh,

      I buy all my CB09 supplies from the same eBay seller indicated on my blog post. Here is the link for the CB09 blade holder:
      http://www.ebay.com/itm/Graphtec-plotter-holder-CB09-Holder-3pc-45-blade-tool-/160573867483?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2562f2c5db

      If you wish to purchase extra blades for the CB09 blade holder, here is the link. I only cut card stocks and the ideal blade for me is the 45 degrees. This link is for the 45 degrees blade. If you wish to get the other balde angles, you will NEED to send the seller a note about this and make it CLEAR to him what you need. Same thing with the 3 free blades that come with the CB09 blade holder. You NEED to make it clear to the seller which blade angle that you want. The link above for the CB09 blade holder specifies 45 degrees for the 3 free blades:
      http://www.ebay.com/itm/160549962723?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

      I've cc-ed the eBay seller so you can contact him directly for any other questions you may have.

      Kindly do me a favor and post your message below as a comment on my blog so I can post my reply as well so others may be able to read the information.

      Thank you for visiting my blog. I'm just glad to be of help to anyone needing help with their blade issues.

      Delete
    2. I have visited your blog page lately. I have followed your advice on
      the blades with the aluminium holder. I cannot express my gratitude
      and relief enough! I was about to give up on my darling Silhouette
      Cameo as I could not afford the waste of card, paper, etc anymore.
      With the blades supplied by Silhouette I have not been able to have
      one successful project - not so anymore! I shall never, ever use the
      silhouette blades again. Thank you ever so much for your advice.

      Delete
  26. Thank you, i've bought the cb09 blade holder from your same ebay shop and i've just set it up . ( all i needed to do was a little sandpapering on the alluminum holder) .
    I've tryed the 45 degrees on my cameo silhouette to cut a vinyl and the result it's perfect.

    Thanks again for your effort to make my "switch" easy and problem-free.

    Bye

    ReplyDelete
  27. Thank you, i've bought the cb09 blade holder from your same ebay shop and i've just set it up . ( all i needed to do was a little sandpapering on the alluminum holder) .
    I've tryed the 45 degrees on my cameo silhouette to cut a vinyl and the result it's perfect.

    Thanks again for your effort to make my "switch" easy and problem-free.

    Bye

    ReplyDelete
  28. Thank you so much for your effort to make my "switch" easy and problem-free.

    I've bought the cb09 from your same ebay shop and all went for good.

    Just a little sandpapering on the alluminium holder and i was ready to cut a vinyl with my cameo silhouette .

    All perfect , thx again :)

    ReplyDelete
  29. Hi,Gayle
    Thank you, Thank you!! You are AMAZING! Thanks so much for all your help regarding these blades. Two months of bad blades and now I am having fun with my machine! All because of you!! I truly am blessed to have met you. Everyone these BLADES/HOLDER ROCKS!! You will not be disappointed. I even took Gayle's advice I ordered more of the #45 so I have 12 blades on hand. I have an additional blade holder for basic shapes and one for delicate shapes. This was another suggestion of Gayle's. What I did. I took a black sharpie and colored the top (That is for the basic shapes), Red Sharpie colored the top for the delicate shapes. I have it written down in my box so I will remember. I think I will be getting another blade holder for Chipboard. My mom gave me tons of Chipboard so I need to get the other blade holder down the road. Once again. I truly thank you. You are such a blessing
    Hugz Kim

    ReplyDelete
  30. Thanks for the info in this Blog Post Gayle. I'd like to use the Roland type blades as they are much cheaper and more "universal." I believe Cricut uses this type, so in a pinch, I can grab one locally.

    I used a digital caliper and found that the diameter used on the Silhouette SD and Cameo as ~14mm. And the distance from the blade tip to the stopper is ~28mm.

    cnlisaliu sells one with 3blades for $29.00 http://www.ebay.com/itm/14mm-blade-holder-Graphtec-cutting-plotter-3pcblade-/160595269406?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item256439571e

    There's another ebay user: cnccheap that sells the same blade holder for $10. Looking at the specs, it's the No. 5 holder.
    http://www.ebay.com/itm/Holder-Cutting-Plotter-Vinyl-Cutter-Blade-Holder-for-Pcut-Mimaki-Roland-/121027273151?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1c2dc9a1bf

    I was wondering if you've used this holder before. I just placed an order and I'll make sure to update with a blog post http://hacksmods.com

    If this holder can cut as well, I think it's a cheaper alternative than using a Graphtec blade or the original Silhouette SD, Craft Robo, Cameo blades.

    Let me know what you think.

    ReplyDelete
  31. Thank you so much for this info. Just ordered. A very good deal, (though shipping wasn't free, it was only $2.99) Unfortunately now I have to wait, LOL, as it has an estimated delivery date between Dec 27-Jan3. Just got my Cameo and haven't turned it on yet. No clue how to use. Again, thank you so much for this great tutorial. I would love to have a copy so I will find how to contact you for that. ~Whitney~

    ReplyDelete
  32. Do you see this? http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160593043641&ssPageName=STRK:MESE:IT
    Is it the same ok to fit in Cameo too cz' I heard you mentioned about CB15 which can take greater force. I am planning to get another machine too, that's why this might be versatile than CB09.

    ReplyDelete
  33. I am so happy I found your blog! I would love to have a copy of the aluminum blade holder instructions. my email address is kiyakgirl@yahoo.com. Thank you so very much!

    ReplyDelete
  34. Thank you for this wonderful information! It has saved me! I would love to have a copy of the blade holder instructions Annie0480@aol.com
    Thank you!
    Denise

    ReplyDelete
  35. Thank you for this wonderful information! Please send me a copy of the blade holder instructions to Annie0480@aol.com! Thanks again! Denise

    ReplyDelete
  36. Hello Liagaya,

    I am so glad I found your blog! I happy about your post on the aluminum blade holder. Please send me a copy of the instructions to ankean@arcor.de

    Thank you so much for your help. I am a new follower...
    Anke

    ReplyDelete
  37. Hi,
    I bought the holder and the blade too, but how does it work with the silhouette software
    Can you help me.
    Renate

    ReplyDelete
  38. You simply put it in the Silhouette machine exactly the same way as the Silhouette blade. I explained the adjustment setting on my blog post.

    Were you able to assemble the blade holder together and put the blade in it? If not, I can send you the assembly photo tutorial that I created which is actually posted above.

    Gayle

    ReplyDelete
  39. hi this just what i need iv look on ebay and can not fine the blade holder can you help thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You forgot to leave your e-mail address so I don't know how to reach you. Anyway, I updated my post to reflect the new links for the eBay store for both the CB09 blade holder and the replacement blades. just click on the new links under UPDATE March 31, 2013.

      Delete
  40. I am so happy I found your blog! I would love to have a copy of the aluminum blade holder instructions. my email address is ruthgabriel@gmail.com. Thank you so very much!

    ReplyDelete
  41. I too, would like a copy of the aluminum blade holder instructions. My email is gcwalker@pcaphl.org Please put Aluminum Blade Holder Instructions on the subject line.

    Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. my email to you bounced back. Got the message incorrect email address.

      Gayle

      Delete
    2. Hello Mam Gayle... I just have some question about my cutter plotter can you pls send me your email.. Here is my E-mail add romerejida18@gmail.com / traxz_55@yahoo.com... TIA...

      Delete
  42. is there a store here in the philippines that sells Graphtec type CB09 blade holder? thanks pls email me at e.lynlee@mailcity.com

    ReplyDelete
  43. Hi There
    I found your blog through Paper Pulse and am so interested in this blade. I would appreciate the instructions you offer and thanks for the ebay info. I'm so excited!! My email is dragonfly60@bell.net.
    Irene

    ReplyDelete
  44. Hi Gayle
    I found your blog through Paper Pulse and the Silhouette Plus Forum. I am also quite interested in this blade. I just wanted to check re the degrees. From all above it looks like the 45 degrees blade would cut most things. For what would you use the 60 degree one? I cut card stock, vinyl and also fabric. Would 45 degree be ok for all that or would you suggest another blade for some things?
    I am from South Africa, hopefully they ship to us!
    Kind regards, Jeanne
    jeanne1305@hotmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  45. Gayle,
    Thank you for this information. I would love to have the photo tutorial for using this blade that you mention, if it isn't too much trouble to send.

    Thank you for such comprehensive information.
    Karen kbrig@ptd.net

    ReplyDelete
  46. Dear Ligaya
    I just ordered the CB09 holder and blades, Have read all your info and have one question. What part of the holder do you sand to make it fit into the cameo, Do you have a photo showing what you sanded down?
    JFronk
    Email jfronk@roadrunner.com

    ReplyDelete
  47. Thank you so much for all your great info it is amazing !!I have just purchased the blade and holder from Hong Kong no custom charges either!! How amazing.I was wondering how i put it the holder and on your page it is all here..Thank you so much You are truly so kind and again amazing!!!!
    well done .Mary xx

    ReplyDelete
  48. thank you for your valuable time and research, I found this article to be very helpful and feel confident
    to try these blades and the holder. In Australia we pay a lot more for our cutting machines and accessories and it is nice to have a cheaper alternative. Thanks once again from Australia downunder

    ReplyDelete
  49. Gayle
    Thanks so much for your help regarding the 60 Blades AWESOME!!! Not to go into a long story (smiles) I had purchased the 60 blade holder and the blades (A year ago) but I never used it for very detailed/intricate cuts before. Well my friend was and I were trying to cut a detailed/intricate Filigree die frame(using the 45 blade and holder Love these blades). She did does have the 60 blade and holder,but she ordered it now!!smiles. As for me I was on a quest! LOL. She kinda gave up,but not me! I knew it could cut just needed some help. Anyway I emailed Gayle and she gave me AMAZING instructions regarding the 60 blades and holder. My detailed Filigree frame is just stunning!! Gayle thanks so much!! I would have never purchased the 45 or the 60 blades and holder if it was not for you. Of course I ordered 2 more packs of the 60 blades. Now I just purchased the 30 blade for thinner material (maybe for fabric). Anyway thanks so much for sharing all your VALUABLE info on these blades and holder. You have save me and other people so much money!!
    Hugz
    Kim

    ReplyDelete
  50. Thanks so much for the information. I actually use my Silhouette for cutting stencils for airbrush work so my material is a little thinker. Like vinyl for decals or mylar for re-usable stencils. I have 45 blade on the way but think, after reading your last comment, that I need to order some 60 as well. Some of my vinyl jobs are kind of intricate and I have had the problem with the corners picking up before. Thanks again for the info, such a much cheaper way to go that the OEM parts.

    ReplyDelete
  51. Thanks for all details and good news regarding the 60° blade.

    I have also bought and tried the blade holder and blades for the CB15 - the blades are stronger and also work with the Cameo.

    ReplyDelete
  52. Hi Gayle,
    Thank you so much for advising about the CB09 blade holder. It is fantastic, The cuts are so clean!!!
    So much better than the silhouette and what is most important so much cheaper.
    I like to read all your research you did about this blade.
    Again I am so happy I listened to your advice.

    ReplyDelete
  53. Thank you very much for putting together all this information in one place. This sounds like a great alternative to the silhouette blades. I will definitely give this a try. Thank you again.

    ReplyDelete
  54. Thank you so much for posting this information! I plan to order the blade holder asap, however, I only cut vinyl and often cut very small fonts. Can you recommend which blade I should be using? Also, I would love to have a copy of your instructions. TIA!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Rhonda. I have never cut vinyl but I've been told that it is kinda similar to sticker paper which I use a lot in making labels. I use waht they call the 'kiss cut' in cutting the sticker paper and used my 45 degrees blade with a blade setting of 2 and thickness of about 12 to 14 in Silhouette Studio. For intricate cuts, I use the 60 degrees blade.

      Since you get 3 free blades on the purchase of the CB09 blade holder, I suggest getting the each of the 3 kinds of blades, the 30 degrees, 45 degrees, and 60 degrees, so you can experiment which will work best for your cutting needs.

      Delete
  55. jacajaSeptember 6, 2013 at 9:20 AM
    I recently read your post regarding the cb09 alternative blade and holder for the Silhouette cutting machine. You recommended an eBay seller in China. Is there a particular reason you go with that seller as I see the same holder on eBay for less money. Are his holder and blades of higher quality than the others?

    Thanks, Janet J.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies

    Gayle Galura-ScottSeptember 6, 2013 at 4:51 PM
    Hi Janet. I have not heard any complaints on the quality of the blades from my eBay seller and all the blades that I got from him really do cut like butter. I did mention to him that I found a couple of ohter eBay sellers selling them for a lower price and he warned me that there are some blades that are of inferior quality and he assured me that he the ones he sell are the best quality. I have heard from other users who bought their blades from other sellers that they got blades that do not cut as nicely. I will copy and paste your comment and my reply in my CB09/aluminum blade holder post so that others may read it, too.

    Delete

    ReplyDelete
  56. Hi, Just wondered if you could help me.

    I have purchased the cb09 blade holder for my Cameo, it arrived yesterday and cut out my first image ok, not great but alright, however now it just wont cut through properly. I am using 220gsm card which the regular cameo blade cuts no problem. I have tried changing the depth of the blade, I have tried putting in a new blade but nothing seems to be working. what I have noticed is when I remove the blade from the aluminium housing it is coming out with the small gold blade holder bit still attached and its really in quite tight, I have to pull it quite hard to get it to come out so I can put a new blade in, is this normal? should it be in there that tightly? Please help me it is driving me mad!!!

    Thanks x

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Kate. I hope you get to read this as I have no other way of reaching you but you didn't leave your email address. The blade should not be stuck tightly to the holder. It seems like there is something wrong with the blade assembly or there might be something wrong with the blade holder. It's hard for me to tell unless I see the blade holder. I suggest contacting the seller and explaining your problem to him. If you got it from the same eBay vendor that I use, he will replace the blade holder if necessary.

      Delete
  57. Hi Gayle,
    I'm really keen on buying this Silhouette Cameo machine as I am starting an online wedding paperie business here in New Zealand. I would use it for cutting cardstock. Im doing my research before buying it online until i bumped in to your blog. It is very informative.
    Can you please tell me if Silhouette is the best machine for cutting card stock. Im also not a very techy person, is it going to be very hard to learn how to navigate the software? My email address is paperscissorsbow@gmail.com.
    Thank you so much!!

    ReplyDelete
  58. I would love to have a copy of the blade tutorial. I just bought my cameo and will order the blade from e-bay. Thank you
    carole
    craftswmn@aol.com

    ReplyDelete
  59. Hi!
    Does the aluminium blade holder works with the oldest model of Silhouette? Is this one the right blade holder? http://www.ebay.it/itm/ROLAND-Vinyl-cutter-Blade-holder-for-printer-plotter-UK-/200933407068?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item2ec890795c

    Thank you!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Looking at the photo and the specs on your link, that is not the same blade holder as the CB09 posted on my blog. I just don't know how much simpler and more explicit I can make this. All the information, details, photos and links are already provided on this post. Yes, the CB09 is compatible with the older model of Silhouette. I started using the CB09 with my Silhouette SD as mentioned on this post, long before the Silhouette Cameo was released.

      Delete
  60. Thank you! I saw the difference between them, I just wanted to know if the blade holder that I found works as well as the CB09 posted on your blog!
    I think that the answer is no! :)

    Regards!

    ReplyDelete
  61. Hi Gayle!!!! Thank you for everything you teach!
    I'm asking if I need to buy both types of blades 45 and 60 degrees??
    I like to have a copy of the blade tutorial. My mail is adrianavander@gmail.com
    HUGS!!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  62. Hi Gayle, so glad I found your site. I was even more delighted to find out that you are a Filipina. I was one of the lucky Filipino teachers recruited to work here in Texas in 2008. My mom recently bought a cameo for me and I am just thrilled playing with it. I wanted to know if you needed to double cut everything like Debbie does to get a good cut from the CB09 blades. Thanks. email: cendriga@mail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No, I don't need to do a double cut when my blade is still new and I'm just using regular cardstock up to 230 gsm. I do double cut when I'm using cardstock thicker than 230 gsm. Also, when my blade is starting to get dull, that's when I do double cut.

      I'm always happy to hear from my kababayan(s) (~.^)

      Delete
  63. Hi Gayle. I'm also a filipino. Di pa kc ako nakaka subok bumili sa ebay. makakadating kaya sa pinas at gano kaya katagal kapag mag order ako ng blade holder.
    thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Dennis. I hope you get to read this. You didn't leave your email address. Yes, for sure you'll be able to get them. I have ordered from this eBay seller several times and I received everything. I may start carrying the CB09 blade holders in my FB page soon. You can just order from me and I can send it to you overnight. You can email me directly at ligayatg@yahoo.com

      Delete
    2. Hi Gale
      I already send the email.
      Thanks

      Delete
  64. There are many blade sellers on ebay now. I actually purchased mine from two different sellers. One was $24.95 for the aluminum blade holder and 5 blades (45 degrees). Then I read your updated post on the 60 degree so I ordered from anther seller and got the blade holder and my choice of blade angles (I got the 60 degree) with 5 blades for $22.95. There are plenty of deals to be had with these blades. I've been stacking up whenever I have the extra money. Thanks so much for your blog and your info on these blades!

    ReplyDelete
  65. Hi Gayle,I would like a copy of the aluminum blade holder instructions. Can you send to me, please? my email: miluxa@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  66. Hi Gayle, I purchased my CB09 a while back but never took it out of the tube. I was planning on using it today, but am wondering if they changed something in the design??? I was very careful taking it out of the tube and opening it up and there is NO spring in the assembly!! I made the purchase MONTHS and MONTHS ago, but haven't used my Cameo at all until now, so I was reviewing the how to's here first. If there is SUPPOSED to still be a spring, where can I get a replacement spring? I hate the idea of having to buy a whole new assembly. :( Thank you for any advice you might be able to share. ~Whitney~ My email is: sewgrammie@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Each blade comes with a spring and is packed in the small acrylic box with the blades. It does not come with the blade holder.

      Delete
  67. Follow up to my post just now... hidden UNDER the foam in the BLADE case there were springs. There was NOT one in the assembly!
    ~Whitney~

    ReplyDelete
  68. Dear Gayle,
    I would like to thank you for this blog and information in it.
    After reading it I decided to order the holder and set of blades few weeks ago and they just arrived.

    I'm happy to report that (for anyone thinking about ordering) that the holder fits in perfectly. All it took was to gently push it down and it slid right in, no polishing required.

    I'm looking forward to trying out my new set of 30, 45 and most importantly 60 deg blades to cut out my custom motorcycle speedo designs.

    All the best and keep up the great work.

    Marcin

    ReplyDelete
  69. Thanks Gayle for introducing me to the CB09 blade holder. This is a very good tutorial, I didn't have any problem putting the holder in my cameo and I Iove how the 60 deg blade cuts, so clean. I'm so glad I found out about this right before I was about to buy another cameo blade :)

    ReplyDelete
  70. Is there a front position for the CB09 holder like there is for the Cameo? I may have overlooked it in your detailed blog.

    I found you through Paper Pulse Blog and I am glad I did. I've been looking at purchasing one of these holders as I am a retired sign maker and these blades are made for the sign industry. That's one reason why they last a bit longer than the Silhouette blades. I also belong to a Facebook/Silhouette group and many of the ladies there are having problems cutting their cardstock and some are having trouble with the vinyl. I am thinking about placing a link to your blog (if that's okay with you) as it would provide them with an alternative blade solution. I would imagine that the designers at Silhouette would almost have to be considering offering another blade degree selection since they are adding more types of paper and vinyl. In the meantime, again, I am glad to have found you.

    ReplyDelete
  71. Hi Gayle,
    thanks for all your information and attention, but I'm affraid that the aluminium holder could "burn" the Cameo motor as it's heavier than the plastic one. What do you think?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Josi.

      You're welcome.

      The weight of the CB09 blade holder is insignificant and does not impede the performance of the machine. I have been using the CB09 blade holder for more than 3 years now and never had any problem with it, not even when I'm doing hundreds of cuts at a time for the multi layers of my 60 Christmas cards.

      Delete
  72. Thank you very much for sharing this information. However, because of the font you are using I found it very difficult to read and wasn't able to read all of your post. Please consider changing the font so old eyes like mine can benefit from the information you share. I don't mean for this to sound unkind at all, just a suggestion. Thanks for considering it.

    ReplyDelete
  73. Hi Gayle
    I went to the ebay page that was listed and it says he no longer has the cb09.. I bought the cameo for my wife's birthday in Nov and she really loves to use it when she can get it away from me. Could send me the link where i can get it. Or are you selling them. My email address is
    grumpynorm@gmail.com.

    ReplyDelete
  74. Thanks so much for so much useful info! I have an original Silhouette, with the older type of replaceable blade, and tend to buy generic ones, which so far have all been good. I wondered about the differeing blade angles being offered, now I understand. Bookmarked this article for later problems, lol. Thanks again, Shaz

    ReplyDelete
  75. Hello Gayle,
    I am having a tough time cutting out 3/4" vinyl words as I am getting those "ears" all over and tears between where the letters connect. I am using the font Pacifico and I have seen finer (chopin script) cut out of vinyl so I know it can be done. I have cleaned out the blade and holder several times but to no help....I am frustrated. I have a wedding show coming up in two weeks and had high hopes of having some beautiful personalized gifts ready to show. I have the Cameo - blade set at silhouette vinyl - blade depth 2 (also tried 1 and 3) and 8 and 9 for the other standard settings. Using a mat and size of my finished design is to be .7" high and 2.5" wide. Can you help? I have gone through tons of vinyl trying to get this figured out.....Julie@secondidos.com

    ReplyDelete
  76. Hi Gayle,
    I purchased the CB09 blade holder and also all three blade types. As first I was so impressed, but after cutting only about 4 doilies and a couple of other things it started cutting so badly with "ears" everwhere. Had the settings on the CB09 the same as the Silhouette blade at 4, speed 1, thickness 32, single cut,160g paper, 45 blade. It appeared that the blade was completely blunt, but can't understand that after cutting so little. Exactly the same has happened with my second 45 blade. Also put the blade on Silhouette 2 and did a double cut, but masses of "ears" and didn't cut through Am now cutting the same doily with the Silhouette blade on 3 and it is cutting perfectly, single cut. No ears. Am very disappointed with these blades and really do not want to go back to the Silhouette blades as they are so expensive here in South Africa. What am I doing wrong? Julie email: robeckett@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Your blade setting and cut setting for 160 gsm paper are way too high and deep. To give you an idea, for 220 gsm card stock I use a blade setting of '3', thickness between 29 to 32, single or double cut depending on the quality of the paper and the condition of the blade, it being new or old. You will always have ears on your cuts when the blade is over extended or the blade/cut settings are too deep.

      Delete
  77. Hello Gayle, I have just ordered a new Cameo after being refunded for a dud Eclips. I was won over by the fact that the cameo can cut stabilised fabric for Applique quilting etc. Q: what blade angle for fabric? I am not happy with the official blade price and found your lovely blog through Google. I just wanted to double check befor ordering from your ebay seller above that it is compatable with the new blade system on the Cameo? (it hasn't arrived from amazon yet so I can't look!) will it need filing down or do you know if that issue has been solved? Big wave from France, Donna :-)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Donna. The Silhouette fabric blade is actually exactly the same as the regular blade except that the company made the fabric blade color blue and called it fabric blade merely for distinction as the blade use for fabric should be used only exclusively for fabric and not to be used with any other material. That being said, the Silhouette blade uses a 45 degrees blade so you will need the same for cutting fabric. I bought 50 CB09 blade holders and I tried all of them with my Cameo and all of them fit perfectly. These were all sold out and not one complained of having to polish down the blade holder to fit their Cameo.

      Delete
    2. Thank you, I will go ahead and order as soon as my new cameo arrives.... {happy dance}

      Delete
  78. Thank you, Ligaya! I'm *very* interested in a re-useable blade holder for my new Silhouette Portrait. The link you gave for the seller says the item is sold, so I went to his other listings. There's one for a "CB09U" as well as for "CB09". The "CB09U" listing lets you choose which blade angle you want, which would be nice, but I can't figure out the difference between "CB09" & "CB09U". Do you know? Would the "CB09U" work in a Silhouette too?

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  79. Hi,
    my order CB 09 holder with 15x45° + 5x60° blades arrived today, I'm glad :-)
    But hapiness wass gone fast....
    Because when assembling the blade does not come out.
    This is how I do it:
    - I unscrew the black plastic bottom,
    - I put in the blade wich gets attracted in a small hole by a magnet
    - then I put the spring over de blade
    - then the black bottom back on it and then I turn the Alu adjustscrew completely in
    until it stops and still the blade does not come out??

    Hope anyone can help me :(
    Thanks
    Danny

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Danny,

      You didn't leave your email address so I can't email you back. I hope you get to read this.

      Are you sure that when you put the black tip to close the blade holder, the tip of the blade (pointed sharp tip) went through the hole for the protrusion? The only reason that I could think of why the blade is being pushed out when you turn the knob on the other end of the blade holder is the blade might have gotten stuck inside, otherwise you might have gotten a defective blade holder. You didi all the correct steps in assembling the blade holder with the blade. The vendor should be able to replace your blade holder. It just sucks for this to happen to you as the shipping from China takes ages. I'm so sorry about your experience and even more sorry that I'm not able to help you with your dilemma.

      Delete
  80. Hi,
    my order arrived today, I'm glad :-)
    But my hapiness was gone very fast..
    Because the blade does not come out.
    This is how I assemble the blade:
    - I unscrew the black plastic bottom,
    - I put in the blade wich gets attrected by a magnet
    - then I put the spring over de blade
    - then the black bottom back on it and then I turn the Alu screw completely in
    until it stops and still the blade does not come out??

    When there would be no hole with magnet then the blade can come out,
    but now it diasapears deeper inside

    Hope anyone can help
    Thanks
    Danny

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi again, Danny. I just responded to your first comment above. Please leave your email address next time so I can email you back.

      Delete
    2. Hi Gayle,
      thanks for your quick reply.
      in the meanwhile the problem is fixed.
      There was a burr in the thread of the adjusting screw,
      Disambled it a few times and with assembling again
      I forced the screw to keep turning.
      After several tries it suddenly went further so the blade came out.

      Thanks again for your help
      Best Regards
      Danny
      danny.croughs@telenet.be

      Delete
  81. Hi Gayle,

    I had the same problem with the blade as Danny, but fixed it after several attempts of assembling and disassembling the blade holder. My problem now is that it is not cutting the way I had hoped. I am using the 60 degree blade to cut 10 mil mylar sheets. I set my cameo to blade 10, thickness 33, speed 1 and double cut. No cutting! I followed the directions (provided in your link above) to test the blade depth. The blade is cutting perfectly by hand but not when I use it through the cameo. I have been trying for 3 days now with no success. If this blade could cut through a cereal box, I am assuming it should be able to cut 10 mil mylar. So what am I doing wrong? please help! Thank you. Lama

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Lama,

      I'm not familiar with mylar sheets but isn't it like a plastic material? The limitation of the kind and thickness of material the CB09 can cut is not on the blade but on the machine. The Cameo can cut only up to 275 gsm mo matter how powerful the blade is. Cutting the cereal box was actually pushing it a bit. I just got curious as to how far it can go but cereal box is not something that I use on a regular basis, in fact, I've only used it twice. If your CB09 can cut regular cardstock nicely, then there is really nothing wrong with it.

      Delete
  82. Thank you ligaya. I tried the Cb09 blade. I will be very very thankful to you for solving such a major problem

    ReplyDelete
  83. Thank you so much for all of your helpful information regarding the CB09 holder and blades. I am not sure how I got to your site but I am so glad that I did. I have purchased the holder and blades and couldn't be happier. The information you have provided will not only save me heaps of money but will give me much cleaner cuts and so a much more useable Cameo. Many thanks again.

    ReplyDelete
  84. Could you please give me the link to the ebay seller for these blades? Also, will these blades cut thicker materials than the cameo blades? Can you order all the angles with the holder? Thanks
    My email is p- rod@ swbell.net

    ReplyDelete
  85. I am interested in purchasing the CBO9 holder and blades. I have been using both fabric and cardstock on my Cameo and wondered if I need to use a different blade for fabric. I purchased the Cameo blades for both media types and wonder how would you determine which blade you're using for fabric and which one for cardstock. Hope that makes sense. Thanks.

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    1. For CB09: You can simply apply colored nail polish on the opposite end of the blade. Or if you can afford another blade holder, you can mark the blade holder itself. I maintain 3 blade holders: one for 60 degrees blade for cutting very thick materials, one for an old blade which I use for basic shapes using double/triple cuts to preserve my new blade only for intricate cuts, and one blade holder for a new blade.

      As you may know, the Silhouette fabric blade (blue) is just exactly the same blade as the regular Silhouette blade (black). It was created a different color just for distinction as just like scissors, the one used for fabric should never be used for other materials.

      The S

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  86. Hi! I purchased the CB09 blades from a seller on ebay. I've been really amazed at how well it cuts intricate designs but do you find that they dull fast when cutting cardstock? I was cutting some tags with small intricate letters using the 45 degree blade. It was doing a beautiful job and I was very impressed. After about 15 tags it was not cutting through the cardstock. Tried changing settings, no go. Put fresh blade in and the exact same thing happened, after about 10 tags it began not cutting through all the way. Do you know if this is normal?

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    1. Hi. That is most definitely not normal. A CB09 blade lasts me hundreds of cuts. Take a look at this Christmas card that I created, http://ligayatg.blogspot.com/2012/01/christmas-card-2011.html, I made 40 of this card and as you will see in the photos, it has multiple layers. Multiply each layer by 40 equals hundreds of cuts including the acetate (transparency film). The 4 ornaments of the card were cut from glittered textured paper. I only used one 45 degrees blade for all the 40 cards and was still able to use the blade for the next project. I have actually experienced using low quality blades but not as bad as yours lasting only 15 tags.

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    2. I'm not sure if the link to the Christmas card referred to in my reply works. Try this one:

      http://ligayatg.blogspot.com/2012/01/christmas-card-2011.html

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    3. Try selecting the link and right click on your mouse and choose 'go to.........'

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  87. Hi Gayle, your pieces of information are very helpful. You mentioned that the blades for the Silhouette SD is compatible with the CB09 holder, but I noticed a difference in appearance. I own a Silhouette cutter and the original holder with colored caps is broken so I am planning to get
    the CB09 aluminum holder. Glad for any additional suggestions.

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    Replies
    1. Hi Patrick. I never said that the blades for the Silhouette SD are compatible with CB09 blade holder. What I said was the CB09 blade holder is compatible with the Silhouette SD which was what I used and have been using the same CB09 with my Cameo. The blade for the old 3-colored-cap style for the Silhouette SD is a pin type with a much longer and thicker 'handle' to which the blade is encased, built-in permanently. You may still find a couple of vendors on eBay carrying this pin type blade but for the cost and rarity of this blade, you're better just buying the CB09 blade holder as the blades are a whole lot cheaper.

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  88. I just took the assumption that its compatible with the three types of holder from what you said that its the same kind of blade on your topic "The Difference Between the Silhouette Blade Holder and the CB09 Blade Holder". But thanks for clarifying because i still have the original blade for the plastic holder which I thought I still could use.

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    1. You're welcome. I'm inclined to think that the blade inside the pin is the same as the CB09 blades just as it is the same as the blade inside the current Silhouette ratchet blade holder that's also built-in.

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  89. Hi I use mainly cardstock and vinyl and love doing intricate designs. Should I get the 45 or 60 blade?

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    1. 30 degrees blade - used for thinner material
      45 degrees blade - used for medium to heavy materials
      60 degrees blade - used for thicker material and more detailed designs

      I have never used vinyl so I won't be of any help when it comes to this material.

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  90. after reading back again and again.... clearly i think i need the 60 deg blade.... posting results soon

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  91. Hello....pls send me link of your supplier to purchase the CB09 for my Cameo (theres so sellers out there, I want one I can trust)...thnx...drewcrew711@gmail.com

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  92. Hi there, I'm from South Africa and cant find any place in my country where I can buy these blades and holder if any body knows please e-mail me the information as where to get them in South Africa e-mail adress: thelittlepawnshop@gmail.com thanks a lot Mary-Jane

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  93. I am finding this thread very interesting! Thank you for all the work you have done. I went to the eBay shop run by joycelijane and she/ he has a blade holder called CB09U which is described as being for the Silhouette in the heading. Do you know if this is something new and /or different. Should I choose this one? You also mentioned in one of your replies that your eBay seller warned of inferior blades and housings. Who is your seller? Thanks for your help.
    Jakki

    ReplyDelete
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    1. You're welcome, Jakki. Please give me your email address.

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  94. Hi, i would like to know what the spring is for. I ordered my CB09, assembled it but without the spring since my blades did not come with springs. I have looked and looked and there really were no springs. I tried adjusting the knob, they work fine so far and have even done some test cuts. I am just worried that they will ruin my machine or projects in the future. Thanks for the help.

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    1. Hi Kai. The spring is supposed to enable the blade to move freely around with every twist and turn of the cutting flow of the machine as directed by the points/nodes of the design. I've never used mine without the spring but if you're saying you've been able to get clean cuts, then you must be fine.

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  95. after several weeks of hair pulling, and I was just about ready to throw out my new cameo machine out the balcony, 2 miracles happened my way. first, I met the greayest, most patient teacher, Gayle! I flooded her with messages and she answered all of them She told me about the CB09 blade and the eclipse mat. I gave that a try and that put a big smile on my face! Now, I can do anything with ease and no way am I going to throw my cameo out the window. I love what I do and best of all, I feel good having the bestest teacher of all! Thanks Gayle!

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  96. Thank you for all this valuable information! :) Could you please share the details of your ebay supplier? :) I'm especially interested in getting the blade that can cut intricate details - the 60? :) Thanks so much Gayle!

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  97. where did you buy your blade holder? I can only find knockoffs

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    Replies
    1. eBay sellers have the lowest price. Choose a seller with a high rating. I only buy from sellers with a rating of at least, 99%. Also, check the number of pieces sold, the higher the number, the better.

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  98. Replies
    1. eBay sellers have the lowest price. Choose a seller with a high rating. I only buy from sellers with a rating of at least, 99%. Also, check the number of pieces sold, the higher the number, the better.

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  99. Thank you so much for all of your helpful info! I use a silhouette cameo in my business, (since 2012) and I was so sick of silhouette blades that seemed to last only moments and were so expensive to replace. I found that the sellers who offered them at lower prices did not consistently ship first quality blades, so those lasted for even less time.
    I ordered a CB09 blade holder and blades, followed your instructions to put them together, set the blade exposure to match the blade exposed on my silhouette ratchet blade, put it in the silhouette and got perfect cuts on vinyl and on freezer paper (single cuts both) the first time. The holder fit perfectly, the entire process was really simple.
    I am so pleased!
    I ordered my blades&holder (and they came with springs) from lz_printer_parts on EBay, the price was great, they shipped for free, from China, and I received them exactly when they said I would, about 10 days. so I would definitely recommend them as a resource.
    Anyway, thank you again, I would never have known without your postings!

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  100. http://www.ebay.com/itm/1x-CB09-Graphtec-Blade-Holder-5-Blades-for-Vinyl-Plotter-Cutter-30-45-60-Mix-/151145524597?var=&hash=item2330f9ad75

    Is the correct one? I'm trying to find it on Ebay but there's soooo many to choose from. I don't want to buy the incorrect one. Please help

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    1. Yes. The seller has 100% rating which is great. You can be assured that in case of any problems on the order, they will deal with it in the best possible way.

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  101. Hi Gayle,

    Great article on the aluminum blade :) I'm waiting for mine to arrive and hope it fits right the first time. I've been experimenting with different brands of cardstock available here in National and Office warehouse with my stock blade and getting mixed results. What cardstock do you have no problems with your stock blade and your CB09 aluminum bladeholder + roland blades? As in, perfect or almost perfect cuts?

    Here's what I've encountered so far:

    300gsm "Board" brand of cardstock: cuts well the first time, but after several rounds, having trouble getting clean cuts.
    180gsm Black "Zulu" cardstock: Terrible for cutting. Tears all the time. Must be the fiber. Avoid.
    200gsm "Sonoma" brand of cardstock: Almost perfect!
    230gsm(?) textured folder board (looks like sheets being sold individually): Good enough, mixed results at times.
    230gsm "Concorde" brand of cardstock that has a watercolor texture: Good enough, mixed results at times. Texture clumps will cause imperfections on the cuts and will not cut well on these spots.
    230/250gsm Velum cardstock (dunno the brand): Might've been good, but due texture clumps within the sheet, some small dots will not cut well.

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  102. Hi. I am confused. All the ebay seller sites say the
    30° Blades for Cutting large fonts and thick materials
    45° Blades for Cutting general fonts and vinyl film.
    60° Blades for Cutting very small font & intricate line-art logos
    On your site you say the 30 is for thin materials. I did look at other sale sites to compare, but they didn't have the details. What do you think?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Robin. I stand by what I have researched and written here. The corresponding type of materials indicated according to the type of blade is correctly based on the angle of the blade. The 30 degrees blade has the least amount of angle on the tip of the blade which makes it suited for thin materials and the 60 degrees blade having the most amount of angle is correctly suited for thick materials.How can the 30 degrees blade be suited for thick materials when the angle is not steep enough to fully penetrate into the thick material?

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  103. GREAT site. Thanks for the info on CB09 holder and blades. Had our Silhouette for abut a year and tired of spending $10 for each blade.

    Keep the ideas coming.

    Bill

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  104. So the lower the degree number the closer to parallel with the paper it will be?

    Bill

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  105. Nice Post. Do you have found any cheap replacement for the Cutting Strip in the Cameo?

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    Replies
    1. I read in one of the Silhouette forums that a couple of layers of vinyl strips can be an alternative. I've never tried it so I can't really attest whether or not it really works. I've only used the Silhouette brand whenever I need to replace mine.

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  106. Hello, I am having trouble with my cameo whatever settings I put my machine is not cutting. I assumed my blades are defective. I contacted the support team via Email but all I received was a canned response. Now I am planning to buy CBO9 to try.. Would you mine giving me the exact name of the blade holder and the blades.. Thank you in advance

    Greetings from Switzerland

    Nora

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    Replies
    1. Hi Nora. The name is simply CB09 blade holder and CB09 blades. There are a lot of reported defective blade holders from some sellers. There is a great FB group called 'United CB09 Users'. Join the group so you can access the very helpful resources in the group's FILES tab. There is a list of trusted CB09 sellers. There are a lot of posts and photos showing the incorrect blade holders and blades shipped to some members.

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  107. How do I sign up for your blog? This is the best explanation of blades & silhouette I have read.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks,Ann :-). You will find "Join This Site" just above my followers' list. Just click on that.

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  108. I recently received my blade holder and blades and finally got around to reading your blog and watching the videos you linked to. I've been able to successfully place the blade in the holder, place the holder in the silhouette machine, and I've watched the video and made the cut file to help with knowing how to adjust the blade length for cutting. When I adjusted the blade so that only a very tiny portion was exposed it made the screw that does the adjusting very loose and when I tried cutting a design on just a piece of printer paper the vibration of the machine caused the loose adjustment screw move and eventually the blade no longer extended past the end of the holder so no more lines were cut. My question is (and I hope my previous explanation of what was happening was clear) 1. Is it normal for the adjustment screw to be so loose and 2. Is there a way to keep the blade in place after adjusting the length.

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  109. Hi Susan. No, it is not normal for the adjustment screw to be loose. The blade stays fixed in the blade holder and it remains fixed until you wind the screw to change the adjustment. I can only surmise that you got a defective blade holder and should report the problem to your seller so they can send you a replacement.

    There is a great FB group for CB09 users called United CB09 Users. There are a lot of members who complain about the CB09 blade holders they got to be defective. There is a list of trusted sellers in the FILES tab of the group.

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  110. Hi. I recently bought a CB09 blade holder and blades. I always use thick card stock. Im using a 60° blade for thick card stock. My first cut results were great. But after about 3 cuts, it didnt cut deep enough. So I adjusted the blade again. This time a bit deeper. But still its not cutting well.. And there are lines on the paper. The lines which the blade holder moved. I even adjusted the cut settings from the silhouette studio. Not working. Do you happen to know what is happening to my cuts?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi shau14. The reason why you are getting unnecessary cut lines on your paper is because your blade is over extended. The common mistake by new CB09 users is they keep on extending the blade out when they are not able to cut through completely. As stipulated on my blog post, the blade protrusion MUST be at the same level of the Silhouette blade on a setting of number 3. When you try to feel the blade tip with your finger, you should hardly feel it, as sharp as the blade is, you won't feel any piercing as the blade tip is hardly extended out. When I get complaints by my clients that they are not able to get perfect cuts, I always ask for a photo of the blade tip in the blade holder and sure enough when I get the photo, the blade is over extended out. This is always the case 1005 every time. THere are photos and video tutorials demonstrating the correct blade adjustment, you really can't miss it.

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  111. So happy finding this blog and that your explanations and links to instruction on youtube! Already bought holder and blades but been scared to try by myself. Big hug to you and Paperpulse who make my creating a lot easier! Marie

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  112. Please tell me where I can order the CBO9 holder. I have the blades but no CBO9 holder for my Silhouette Cameo Thank you very much for the information.

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  113. Thanks for the tutorial. I'm not having any luck getting my cb09 to cut through leather. The only way to get a complete cut is make the blade long enough, but then it drags. It doesn't come close to cutting through at an autoblade 3 equivalent setting.

    I'm new to silhouette Cameo but my settings are this: deep cut blade set at 10 in the software with a Max force of 33 and the slowest setting and 6 passes.

    I noticed that the blade opening gets leather fuzz jammed up in it after each cut. I'm laying the leather smooth side down on the mat. Sometimes the shape gets pulled out with the blade and stays stuck on the blade. Any tips or advice for cutting 1.5 mm thick leather?

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    Replies
    1. I haven't tried cutting leather. I don't think that the Cameo machine has enough force to cut leather. The Cameo has a maximum cutting force of only 275gsm. I found Faux leather paper and Leatherette listed in the list of materials in the Studio cut settings which are nowhere near the thickness and toughness of genuine leather.

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  114. New to Silhouette Cameo 3. New to CB09 blade. Do I select "Auto-blade" to use the CB09 blade and then select my type of media? Thank you!

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    1. Hi Gail. No, choose ratchet blade instead of Auto-blade when using the CB09. You can use either of the 2 slots.

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