Top 10 Silhouette Cameo 5 Accessories You Need to Get Started

Getting a new Silhouette Cameo 5 is exciting! This powerful machine opens up a world of creative projects, but to truly make the most of it, you’ll need the right accessories. Here are the top 10 Silhouette Cameo 5 accessories we recommend to enhance your cutting experience and help you create amazing projects from day one.

1. A Variety of Blades

The Cameo 5 uses an AutoBlade, but different materials call for different tools. Having a collection of blades ensures you get the best cut every time.

• AutoBlade Type B: Keep a spare of the standard blade on hand.
• Manual Blades: For those who prefer fine-tuned control, blades like the 2mm Kraft Blade are essential for thicker materials.
• Rotary Blade: A must-have for cutting fabric without a stabilizer.

2. Extra Cutting Mats

You’ll want more than the mat that comes in the box. Different materials require different levels of tackiness.

• Standard Tack Mat: Your workhorse for cardstock, HTV, and standard vinyl.
• Light Tack Mat: Perfect for delicate materials like printer paper and vellum.
• Strong Tack Mat: Necessary for holding thicker materials like faux leather and craft foam securely.

3. Silhouette Tool Kit

This basic kit is non-negotiable. It includes the essential hook tool for weeding vinyl, a spatula for lifting delicate cuts off the mat, a scraper for applying vinyl and cleaning mats, and a pick-me-up tool for placing small embellishments.

4. Sketch Pens or Pen Holder

Transform your cutter into a drawing and writing machine. Use Silhouette Sketch Pens to add intricate designs to cards and labels, or use the Pen Holder to fit your favourite standard pens into the machine.

5. Heat Pen Set (Power Tool)

This is one of the exciting new features for the Cameo 5, which we cover in our Silhouette Cameo 5 Review. The Heat Pen is a power tool that lets you create stunning foil effects on cardstock and faux leather, adding a touch of elegance to your projects.

6. Embossing Tools (Power Tool)

Another new Power Tool capability! The Embossing Tools allow you to press designs into materials like foil cardstock and embossing paper, creating beautiful raised (embossed) effects.

7. Auto Sheet Feeder

For small business owners or those doing high-volume sticker or card projects, the Auto Sheet Feeder is a massive time-saver. It automatically loads sheet materials into your Cameo 5, allowing you to batch-process jobs.

8. Vinyl Roll Feeder

While the Cameo 5 has a built-in roll holder, an external Roll Feeder can offer more stability for very large rolls, ensuring your long cuts stay perfectly aligned.

9. Dust Cover

A simple but crucial accessory. A dust cover keeps your machine’s internal mechanisms clean and protected when not in use, prolonging its life.

10. Silhouette Studio® Business Edition

While the basic software is powerful, upgrading to the Business Edition (a one-time payment) unlocks incredible features like multi-cutter support, advanced nesting (to save material), and the ability to export your designs as SVG files. It’s a worthy investment for any serious Silhouette user. Learn more in our software comparison guide.

Ready to build your ultimate crafting station? Shop all the essential Silhouette Cameo 5 accessories at Maker’s Supply and get creating!