Sorry Beaky, anything vinyl cutter under $2k is JUNK! they'll work great for a few jobs, then you'll discover that hand-cutting is a better option
Been there, dont it long ago...
I've used and highly recommned Roland pirinters and cutters for years now, and just about to aquire a nice roland printer/cutter for $17k, (serious stuff for banner size prints ideal for pin stencils too).
As long as you keep your stencils CHEAP, you'll reap the rewards.
Most backyarders get too greedy and seem to undercut the retail market by only $10-20, which isn't an advantage to anyone.
If something out there cost $300, I'll selll mine for $25, simple as that.
MM.