Good evening one and all. Thank you for allowing me into such an informative forum.

I've been considering a CNC router for some years, and now I'm finally in the position to embark... I was going to buy a kit, but after reading nearly every discussion on this forum, I guess I might have to build one instead.

I have a design background, and some experience using CNC machines while working in schools, as well as some knowledge of Mach 3 etc, so I feel reasonably confident that I can make things work at the computer end. The Hardware is more worrying though. I know what I need the machine to do, and I have some friends who can help with any welding, electrics or precision engineering, but I would like advice from experienced CNC builders as to a plan/design and parts list, and an expected budget. I mainly make wooden jewellery but have some plans for larger items.

NEEDS
- bed size of approx 300mm x 400mm (I can be a little flexible on this)
- z axis travel of 60mm ish.
- ability to carve fine detail (in mainly hardwoods) and occasionally cut out shapes from plywood (up to 12mm)

If anyone can offer any advice or links to self-builds that they feel would fit the bill will be gratefully received. I have perused some of the build logs, but its easy to end up off-topic when following the conversations.

Oh, and I'm based in Stockport!