Preparing Files (Illustrator) for Vinyl Cutter

[Loco1]

I'am using Illustrator CS2,then converting down to Illustrator 8 to be able to use with my cutting program , my problem is that I have a file that I used before and have to add some lines of type with a shadow (stroke) behind the type and I don't seem to be able to convert it properly,when I convert it to my cutting program,I only get a few letters or stroke showing, but my file on Illustrator looks good, my graphic designer quit on friday, and I don't know what to do. THANKS

[crystalfat]

Could it be an RGB / CMYK issue?

[class_act]

Be sure all copy is converted to outline before exporting for cutting. As for the shadow, in my antiquated sign program, the shadow must also be in outline. I use a sign program compatiable with 98 and export as eps. My main use is with a Versa Cam 3000 plotter/printer, and a straight Graphtec plotter. You can e-mail me with any questions.

[MuseStricken]

I know it's a bit late, but we use FlexiLetter and output to a small Graphtec plotter here where I work, and like Class Act said, you have to make sure all your type is converted to outlines instead of live.

Easiest way to do it in Illustrator is to use the Expand command in the Object menu.

As for the stroke, the easiest way to get *it* to outlines(cause Expand doesn't always work on strokes), use the command "Outline Stroke" in the Path submenu of the Object menu (Object-->Path-->Outline Stroke).