A[LIST] Hi [/LIST] I have been wanting to start a home business and the thought of producing cookie stencils is very interesting. I wonder what machines are being used???? There is no way it is a Cricut or Silhouette as you would burn up one of those babies mass producing stencils each:-D week.

Does anyone have an idea what machine is being used??? PM Please......:smile:

Cakeymom

Well, those companies (I assume you're referring to the stencil manufacturers??) are most likely using high end professional die cutting machines, that cost thousands and thousands of dollars. 

Lots of people are making stencils and cookie cutters using 3D printing machines these days. Google 3D printer. The cutters they produce are made of plastic and thats why all those etsy sites scream "DO NOT PUT IN DISHWASHER". What made you decide to start a business that you are unfamiliar with? 

I'm referring to the quantity made when I say Mass Production.  In that, a Cricut or Silhouette would not be able to handle the large volume of stencil cutting.

A

I'm just researching at this point.  But I have some money to invest and I am interesting in looking into the possibility of a worthwhile venture. 

Cakeymom

Have you looked at Ponoko? You can send them your design and they'll cut it out for you. Also, is there a market for cookie stencils? You would be competing with the regular stencils in the craft stores (plastic and metal), specialty cooking stores, and the online people. Remember,  just because they are listing them on Etsy doesn't mean they're actually selling them. If you have some unique designs, try to sell a few at first. As far as machines go, see how much it would be for someone else to produce them for you.

Just some food for thought.

Tried to make my own stencils.  I bought the plastic sheets, and the cutters and drew out my ideas, and made a total mess of things.  It was nearly impossible for me to cut cleanly and follow my drawings.  If you have the ability to cut stencils for cookies, power to you.  I wish I could have been able to do so.

Are they thicker or something.  I bought the craft sheets specifically for cutting (burning) with the tools.

There are quite a few stencil businesses out there. "the cookie countess" "designer stencils" to name a few that I have purchased from. I have no idea what equipment they use, I know a lot of  cookie decorators use them.