Don't want to scare you away! Have a look at the build logs on this forum > machine building > gantry style

In general the general DIY builds on the 'internet' leave a lot to be desired in my view. The builds on this forum, plus some of the cnczone ones, are much better having benefited from the collective wisdom and continuous feedback over a number of years.

For ideas about a deceptively simple but solid machine (using some extrustions) have a look at this recent build:
http://www.mycncuk.com/threads/8701-...ght=Jazz+build

Finally, if CAD is not your thing then you could post links to a couple of other people's ideas you like and get feedback on those. But the CAD trip is well worth it in the end so I do encourage you to try.