How to use the autoload feature on Cameo 4 machines

First, there was the AutoBlade — no more forgetting to turn your ratchet blade to the right number. Then came the feature where the machine gets your mat or no mat selection from the software and rolls in your mat or material the correct amount before it starts cutting. That has saved me so much material because I was forever hitting the Load Mat instead of Load Media (if you didn’t know, those 2 options pull the mat or material in a different amount). Those both entered the scene with the Cameo 3. The Cameo 4 has even more little helpers. Most probably know about the sensor that reads which tool or adapter is inserted in the machine. But did you know your machine can help you load your mat or material more easily? It’s called Autoload.

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If you’ve ever struggled to load a mat or material, then you’ll love this. It sometimes feels like you need more than 2 hands. Imagine how much tougher it is on the 15″ Cameo Plus and 24″ Cameo Pro. Loading a 24″ wide piece of vinyl with one hand while you press the button? No thanks! Even on the smaller machines, this can be a real help, especially on materials like vinyl or HTV that are floppy.

So, let’s see how Autoload works.

How Autoload works

These new Cameos have a built-in sensor. When you lay your mat or material up against the rollers, you cover the sensor and the machine detects that. Then you hit the load button and have 6 seconds to get both hands on the mat/material before the machine begins pulling it in.

Here’s where the sensor is–

That’s my Cameo Plus. It’s in the same location at the left on the 12″ Cameo, but more toward the center of that front platform on a Pro.

Here’s a video showing how this works.

(Sorry I’m not narrating this. We’ve had a crew outside all week repairing the street and it’s LOUD!)

I’ve gotten used to all these auto options pretty quickly and love them. Yes, machines may take over the world! Now if I can just get one to plan and cook meals for me…

Need more beginner tips on Cameo 4 machines? Check out my post on unboxing.