Looking for a stencil cutting machine

[tecwritr 0]

I am new at this so bare with me. I'm taking up airbrush art and want to create my own stencils. I need to keep the price down because this is for a hobby and I'm retired.

I'm considering the 28 inch MH. I looked at the Silhouette Curio but I don't like the limited size or the software.

Is the MH the right way to go?

[Command 97]

Good evening mate,

 

Depending on the size of the stencils you need and your budget I'd recommend one of four things:

 

1:Silhouette Cameo: Can be had for $250 and cuts 12". Manufactured by Graphtec so it is reliable and well supported. Fair resale value

 

2: UScutter SC cutter: Costs $370. supposedly more reliable than the MH series. More well supported, but still entry level. poor resale value

 

3: Uscutter MH cutter: Costs $300. Can do detail that matches even good cutters, but quality control is a mixed bag. Very flaky and temperamental. (I started with one of these) poor resale value

 

4: Used Graphtex Craft robo pro CE-5000-40. $400-$500 Very reliable 15" cutter. You can always get a good part of your money back. Graphtec is an industry standard.

 

In my opinion, unless money is tight AND the cameo does not cut a wide enough stencil, should you consider the MH. The Graphtec products don't present a heavy opportunity cost as there are always people looking to purchase secondhand units.

[dirtrocker 60]

As an airbrush painter, I have a 28" cutter and while I rarely go beyond 24", it's nice to have the width for doing multiple mask stencils at one time.

Years back, I had a 12" cutter and it was a challenge on some stencils, because they would end up 12 1/2" and I'd have to try and make them fit properly. Which is why I ended up with a 28".
Even doing the top of a motorcycle tank may push that 12" limit, depending on the tank. 

 

Edit:
I forgot to mention, if you are going to use the SC, a good exacto knife will be your friend.