DIY or Buy? Anybody on here ever built their own CNC machine for woodworking?

[Dolmetscher007]

I want to a powerful and supremely accurate CNC machine. I've always looked at the X-Carve, because it was the first CNC machine that I know of that "made it to market" for the average guy. Their marketing cut through all the noise, to the point that the X-Carve is pretty much the only name brand I can think of when it comes to woodworking CNC machines. When I watch all my favorite YouTubers though, most of them built their own CNC machines. I've been doing some Google searching, and I've found several "DIY CNC machine" resources, but... they all seem to be connected, in some form or fashion, to some kind of business that wants to sell you CNC machines, parts, or kits. I guess that's fine. I certainly don't fault someone for wanting to put together a "product' to help them turn their nerdy hobby into some income.

For me, the total n00bie, though... it makes it a little challenging to sift through what's solid trustworthy information and what's, "Buy my kit," information. This WoodTalk Forum has always been a tremendous help to me for woodworking questions, so I thought I'd ask you guys, if any one of you might know of a solid DIY CNC Machine forum where I can go ask all my silly n00bie questions about CNC machine design?

[JohnG]

I’ll follow this thread. I don’t really see the benefit to building one from scratch unless you will get enjoyment from the process. If that’s the case, then go for it! 
My assumption is that you will save some cash in the cost of the setup, but may end up spending a bunch of time getting it up and running, troubleshooting, and testing to ensure the precision and accuracy. I’d much rather spend a little bit more to get something that works out of the box (mostly at least) and has support if anything ever goes wrong. Maybe someone will show that my assumption is wrong. 

Some other companies to consider-

Powermatic, Felder, Avid CNC, NextWave Shark/Piranha, Laguna, and I’m sure there are several more.

 

[..Kev]

I'll say this as just another woodworker, not an Admin here..

I care so little about CNC that if there was ever a reason to cram one in my shop, it would be bought.  

[Coop]

If I ever tried to build one it would probably take off like a drone!

[wtnhighlander]

There are a few CNC enthusiasts here that can offer solid advice. I can offer that Frank Howarth's monster machine (IIRC) was a partnership with CNCRouterParts.com, now known as Avid CNC. I would talk to them about building a custom machine, if that is what you want. They should be able to provide any parts necessary, as well as design advice and support. CNC is a mature technology, so there are lots of DIY resources, but if you want the machine for actual production, I would go with a company that can support it after the sale, rather than building from scratch. Unless THAT build is what you want for a hobby...

[BillyJack]

Ive worked around CNC's for years. If you like to tinker or our challenged by the build then I would build it. If you just wanna make stuff, then just buy it....

[Immortan D]

A question for @difalkner. He made his own super pro CNC machine a while back:

 

 

[difalkner]

Just now saw this and have sent you a message, Michael.  Building your own is definitely a good way to get into CNC if you have the time, patience, and space.  If not then just buy one ready to go and start cutting!

David

[TheAverageCraftsman]

DIY Builds designed and built one from scratch and has free plans.  

 

[Henry Mateo]

If you want to customize your CNC machine and save money, you might want to build it yourself, but only if you know how to use technology and have the time and tools.

If you have never done this before, it might be best to buy a machine that is already made from a reliable company. 

[BillyJack]

I’ve got a relative up north that has a small CNC. He spends more time tinkering than doing from what ai hear. Not to say he doesn’t use it, but it sounds more like the CNC is the hobby, not what comes from it.

 

Last I heard he had new software he was learning. That might be the first thing to look into..