We all have to start somewhere - my first CNC router was to a slightly modified version of the JGRO design (details available with a quick Google search). Built from MDF, leadscrews were screwed rod from Screwfix, 3D printed blocks to hold bearings (which were an upgrade from the original design's MDF blocks!) and many other nastinesses. But, despite being thrown together in a hurry to carry out a commitment I had rather rashly made, it worked and taught me a lot. Not least that MDF has the long-term structural integrity of cold-rolled cow dung...

The current Mk2 is all steel, welded construction, Hiwin profile rails, ballscrews, etc. A completely different beast but which drew heavily on my initial learnings. It also reused the Nema23 motors and 2.2KW water-cooled spindle I had rashly over-specced for the Mk1 as I had this vague idea of a future upgrade. Go for it - you can always build a Mk2 if you need it! I described my Mk2 on this forum a few years ago - it's here: https://www.mycncuk.com/threads/1161...highlight=avor.