The Bantam Tools NextDraw 8511 Pen Plotter (A4) is a versatile and reliable device designed to cater to the needs of artists, innovators, educators, and handwriting enthusiasts. This pen plotter boasts a drawable area compatible with European A4 paper sizes, making it an ideal choice for standard paper dimensions. Despite its compact size, it offers the same power, speed, and features as the larger models in the NextDraw series, ensuring users have a robust solution for their creative endeavors.
The NextDraw 8511 features a significant speed enhancement due to updated firmware and a brushless pen lift motor. Its auto-homing function simplifies the user experience, while the sturdy electronics enclosure provides an easily accessible on-off switch, hardware pause and reset buttons, and built-in cable strain relief. The software experience has been improved in Inkscape, with additional command-line and Python interfaces for those who prefer them. The device is FCC-certified and proudly manufactured in New York.
One of the unique aspects of this plotter is the drawing head's ability to extend beyond the machine body, allowing users to draw on larger flat objects directly. The versatile pen holder accommodates a wide range of writing instruments, from Sharpie markers to fountain pens, and even non-pen tools like chalk and brushes. The innovative brushless pen-lift mechanism is particularly beneficial for writing implements that require pressure, such as ball-point pens.
The Bantam Tools NextDraw 8511 is more than just a plotter; it is part of a hardware and software ecosystem designed for a broad spectrum of applications. The ecosystem supports a variety of accessories to enhance functionality and foster creativity. The software, compatible with Mac/PC/Linux platforms, is incredibly versatile and offers advanced API features for custom applications. With its solid construction, comprehensive software, and exceptional quality and performance, the Bantam Tools NextDraw 8511 sets a new standard in the realm of plotters.
Please note that the Bantam Tools NextDraw 8511 is a sophisticated piece of equipment and should be used in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure safety and optimal performance.
1x Bantam Tools NextDraw 8511 Pen Plotter (A4)
1x Universal-input multiplug power supply with EU plug (attached) as well as interchangeable plugs for US, UK, and AUS style plugs
1x USB A to micro-B cable
1x Standard NextDraw pen clip
1x Spring kit with light and heavy springs for pen pressure
Basic tools for use and maintenance
Overall dimensions: Approximately 21.5 x 16 x 4 inches / 55 x 40.5 x 10 cm
Footprint: Approximately 17 x 5 inches / 43 x 13 cm
Usable pen travel: 11.81 x 8.58 inches
Usable pen travel: 300 x 218 mm
Vertical pen travel: 0.7 inches / 17 mm
Vertical pen travel: 0.3 inches / 7.5 mm typical when using spring
Maximum XY travel speed: 15 inches / 38 cm per second
Native XY resolution: 2032 steps per inch (80 steps per mm)
Reproducibility (XY): Typically better than 0.005 inches (0.1 mm) at low speeds
Holds pens and other drawing instruments up to 5/8 inch / 16 mm diameter
Compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux
Drive directly from within Inkscape, using the Bantam Tools NextDraw software
If you are not satisfied with a product purchased from the Site, you may request a return within 30 days from the delivery date, unless the product is listed under the Return Exceptions below or is subject to specific return conditions noted on the product page.
This return policy also applies, as a minimum standard, to products sold and fulfilled by third-party vendors through the Marketplace.
United Kingdom consumers exercising their statutory Right of Cancellation are subject to different conditions. See the Statutory Right of Cancellation.
Returns under this policy concern non-defective products. In the case of a confirmed manufacturing defect, remedies are handled under the Warranty terms, at the Vendor's discretion. See the Warranty section.
Return Conditions
To qualify for a refund under the 30-day return policy, all of the following conditions must be met:
A valid Return Authorisation (RA) number must be obtained prior to returning the product. Returns without an RA number will be refused.
The RA number is valid for 30 days. The returned item must be received within that period.
The RA number must be included with the return.
Products must be returned in unused, unmodified condition (e.g., no scratches, alterations, missing parts, or signs of installation/use) and in their original packaging, suitable for resale.
Shipping fees are non-refundable. Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer, except in cases of a product confirmed defective through RobotShop's troubleshooting process or of a verified shipping error by RobotShop.
Refunds are processed within 7 days after receipt and inspection of the returned item.
A £100 cleaning fee may apply to domestic robots returned in used or unclean condition.
A 20% restocking fee may apply to large-quantity returns of items ordered specifically for the customer from the manufacturer or not part of RobotShop's standard inventory.
Return Exceptions
The following products are not eligible for return or refund under this policy:
Used, damaged, or modified products — Items that show signs of use, wear, or alteration, making them unsuitable for resale.
Consumables * — Use and wear-and-tear components, altered or depleted through use (e.g., batteries, belts, brushes, gears, filament, tyres, disposable bags, lubricants, greases, waxes, etc.). Not eligible for return once opened or used.
Perishables — Goods liable to deteriorate or expire rapidly. Not eligible for return.
Sealed goods (health or hygiene) — Items sealed for health-protection or hygiene reasons (e.g., masks, gloves, odour-absorbing products). Not eligible for return once unsealed.
Build-it-yourself products and items requiring customer assembly * — Including robots & kits, robot parts, and other products requiring assembly or soldering. Not eligible for return once assembled, soldered, or installed.
Digital Goods, Software, and Apps * — Final sale only, due to licensing restrictions.
Clearance Items * — Products identified as clearance or final sale, including end-of-life or discontinued items.
Custom-made, personalized, or special-order items — Products manufactured, configured, adapted, or built to the customer's own specifications and requirements.
On-Demand Items * — Standard catalogue products not stocked by RobotShop and ordered specifically to fulfil a customer request.
* United-Kingdom consumers retain their statutory Right of Cancellation on these items. Its exercise is subject to the conditions and exclusions set out in the Statutory Right of Cancellation, and any reimbursement may be reduced to reflect a loss in value resulting from handling beyond inspection.
How to Request a Return Authorisation (RA)
While the same return policy applies, these orders require a separate contact process for returns.
RobotShop Fulfilled Orders → submit a support ticket from your account under My Support Tickets.
Marketplace Vendor Orders → submit a ticket from your account under My Marketplace Tickets to contact the vendor directly.
Note: Marketplace vendor products are normally labelled with SKUs starting with RM, and identified on the product page with the mention "Sold and fulfilled by [Vendor Name]".