unfortunately.. (for me).. more projects than knowledge as well! lol..
and yes.. I do suggest the Silhouette Cameo.. great little machine..
no proprietary 'cartridges' for fonts/images/clip art.. (which is how most work)
you can import images.. (trace) then cut them.. .. create using their little tool box/GUI (not the best..no photoshop..lol)
if you get the upgraded software... you can import .svg files directly (and save too I think?) which is kind of a sweet feature!
I made some etching on mugs (negative stencil on glass mug form dollar store.. into the media cabinet for some some sand blasting).. can also be done for about $20.00 with 'air erasure' from HarborFrieght too..
great for parties and events to have fun with....etc.
plus geek stickers! lol.. vinyl stuff for windows/cars/stencils..etc..
but I think it use it for PCB stencils the most.. any time.. just pop-one out, smear some paste...populate & bake!
I have a very old Graphtec vinyl cutter that I started making PCBs and experimented with cutting solder stencils, then it quit working after we moved. Not had time to fix it.
You results look great! I agree with the sentiment that although this may be inefficient, you have to start somewhere.
I think you can use the same Python stuff I am using for yours (Graphtec)...
it uses Gerber files as the source..(which is great cause I use Eagle)
and it cuts some pretty nice stencils.. (saves me $25-$35 a time when I make them myself!)
the 'kit' above is 5 stencils right there.
All the steps/guide is on Dangerous Prototypes forum.. (I think I have everything still saved too,.. if you cant find it let me know)
anyways.. I have everything done.. and ave moved things away from the temp button and using a DB-9 (serial) connector for the magazine to gun connection....
and since I have to disconnect one of the MAX chips (its in the magazine) and reconnect it.. Im having an issue on it re-initializing correctly..(or something)? I made a thread on it... (the fun never stops!) LOL
experience with the MAX7219/MAX7221 chips is needed.. more or less having trouble removing a part/component/pcb from the circuit (that has a MAX chip on it).. and re-inserting it later to continue 'running/updating'
lol..