--- title: Pre-cut Checks description: "Once Plate is aligned to the workpiece, the cut file is placed, and a Z-Touch is performed, the workpiece is ready to cut. Before beginning to cut, check the following: The Reticle is retracted The Fe" --- [Skip to content](https://support.shapertools.com/hc/en-us/articles/8900599915419-pre-cut-checks#main-content) - [English](https://support.shapertools.com/hc/en-us/articles/8900599915419-pre-cut-checks) - [Deutsch](https://support.shapertools.com/de/hc/de-de/articles/8900599915419-überprüfungen-vor-dem-fräsen) - [Français](https://support.shapertools.com/fr/hc/fr-fr/articles/8900599915419-vérifications-avant-le-fraisage) English Show submenu for translations [Contact us](https://support.shapertools.com/kb-tickets/new?hsLang=en) ![Shaper-KB-Logo.svg\]](https://support.shapertools.com/hubfs/Shaper-KB-Logo.svg) Open main navigation Close main navigation - - [English](https://support.shapertools.com/hc/en-us/articles/8900599915419-pre-cut-checks) - [Deutsch](https://support.shapertools.com/de/hc/de-de/articles/8900599915419-überprüfungen-vor-dem-fräsen) - [Français](https://support.shapertools.com/fr/hc/fr-fr/articles/8900599915419-vérifications-avant-le-fraisage) English Show submenu for translations - [Contact us](https://support.shapertools.com/kb-tickets/new) - [Go to shapertools.com](https://www.shapertools.com/) [Go to shapertools.com](https://www.shapertools.com/) Shaper Support - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. 1. [Help Center](https://support.shapertools.com/?hsLang=en) 2. [Plate](https://support.shapertools.com/plate?hsLang=en) 3. [Origin + Plate Setup](https://support.shapertools.com/plate?hsLang=en#origin-plate-setup) # Pre-cut Checks ![clear-obstructions.png](https://support.shapertools.com/hubfs/Knowledge%20Base%20Import/clear-obstructions-1.png) Once **Plate** is aligned to the workpiece, the cut file is placed, and a **Z-Touch** is performed, the workpiece is ready to cut. Before beginning to cut, check the following: - The **Reticle** is retracted - The **Fence** is retracted if necessary - Your planned cut doesn't extend beyond the **Window** Always place designs within the grid reference points to ensure all cutters smaller 8mm will pass without issue. ![cut-window-references.png](https://support.shapertools.com/hubfs/Knowledge%20Base%20Import/9272512467099-1.png) When using extra long cutters like the [8mm × 35mm Up-Spiral Flat Router Bit](https://www.shapertools.com/store/product/8-mm-x-35-mm-up-spiral-flat-router-bit), be mindful that these bits may project past Origin's skid pad and can scratch Plate's domino surface.  ![long-bit-warning.png](https://support.shapertools.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Knowledge%20Base%20Import/long-bit-warning-1.png?width=550&height=190&name=long-bit-warning-1.png) If using a wider bit like the [16mm Clearing Bit](https://www.shapertools.com/store/product/16-mm-x-16-mm-clearing-router-bit), use the Cutter Diameter feature to confirm that the cut path won't extend beyond the Window. When in doubt, perform an **Aircut** by entering a -10mm value in the Depth Setting on Origin. It's not necessary or recommended to run the Spindle while performing an Aircut. A reminder message to turn it on will appear, but this can be cleared and bypassed by tapping the right hand button again. 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