[JazzBandit]

Hello! I am new to CNC machines and I am interested in designing and being creative. I am looking to purchase some sort of CNC kit that I can put together myself. I want to use it on various materials including woods, metals, plastics etc. I am going to use it for personal use and occasional gifts and things. I have done some research and have came across a 'Shapeoko 2' which is the kind of thing that I think I am looking for. My budget is approximately

[awerby]

Well, the Shapeoko 2 looks like an improvement over the Shapeoko 1. I'd say spend a little more and get the 23 frame motors instead of the 17s. And when that Dremel tool burns out (as it will shortly) replace it with a router of some sort. I wouldn't expect too much from this machine; you might be able to scratch on metal to some extent, but it's certainly not going to cut thick parts out of steel. However, considering the price, it's probably as much machine as you can expect. It might give you an introduction to CNC that could prove inspirational.