New to all this

[jmh474]

I was thinking along the lines of aluminum box tube. I did see them made with wood but I think this could be a bad idea

Could a 3d printer be a better way to go (cheaper)???

[JAZZCNC]

I was thinking along the lines of aluminum box tube. I did see them made with wood but I think this could be a bad idea

Could a 3d printer be a better way to go (cheaper)???

Yes much better than wood based machine.

Regards 3D printer then to be honest they are so cheap these days I wouldn't build one. You'll buy a fully working basic entry level machine for £150.

What size cutting area are you looking for.? . . . Like neil says cheap chinese machines are ok for learning and cutting your teeth on.