[fatmule]

Hey, new guy here to CNC machines. I would like to build one for hobby esq building tasks and what not. I plan to build one. My time restraints and money aren't really an issue, but im trying to stay within the $800 on all hardware and electronics. So if the people of the community could give me a little guidance that would be great!

[tjb1]

The cheapest linear motion you can probably go with would be the parts from CNCRouterParts Look at the linear carriages and you will see what I mean. What size table are you looking to make?

[brtech]

Your budget is too small unless you want a toy.

A basic set of motors, drive electronics and power supply is going to cost you about $400.
The mechanics for a small gantry in MDF, which is about the cheapest you can build, is going to be another $400-500 assuming you make all the MDF parts yourself rather than buy a kit.

Then you need software. You can use EMC, which is free, but there are no really decent CAM programs. $150 for Cut 2D, or Cam Bam or something else. If you want Mach3, another $150.

You need a computer to run it. You might have one, but if not, even a used one with a display, keyboard, mouse and Windoze license is at least $100.

Think $1200 as long as you are thinking 12" x 12" or so and use a dremel or something like it for a spindle. Sort of depends on a lot of variables. Some folks have managed to do the Solsyva machines around $1200.

[louieatienza]

I built my first machine, a Solsylva.com plans build, for around that much, including the Xylotex drive/motor kit. Maybe the skate bearing setup is not the most ridgid, but I found it pretty adequate for the hobby uses I had then. I'd probably go more heavy-duty if you plan to rely on income from your machine. It's getting tougher, but there are stil a lot of great deals on eBay...

[flojor10]

First what is the work size you need?