I am still studying the open designs after a couple of years of gathering parts here and there. So far I have the following on the shelf in the shop:

Two Thompsen 47 1/2 " 1/2" diameter supported rails and eights pillow block open bearings.

Two THK HSR30 rails with four blocks 26 1/2 inches long.

Eight closed 1" Thompsen pillow blocks and two sets of 20 " shaft with Thompsen end supports.

Two Acme 1/2 x 10 rods with most of what I need to support them.

Three new steppers and HobbyCNC board tested and ready but I may buy three Geckos.

Power supply for Hobby CNC and one also suitable for the Geckos (72 V DC).

Breakout board and misc electrical material for running the steppers.

New Bosch VS router for spindle. Spindle holder by K2CNC

My background is electrical - not mechanical. I am looking for a machine for wood and plastic but light Aluminum would be a bonus.

I have the plans for the JGRO and the Rockcliff -

Anyone want to comment about what might be a decent path from this point?