Looking for advice on first cnc build

[MAAD]

Hello everyone. I'm new to the world of CNC so please excuse my "newbie-ism." I'm looking to build my first CNC machine but I need a little guidance and advice with a few things.

First off, I'm on a budget so cost is pretty important at this time. However, I hope to upgrade some of the materials for a more solid machine (like starting with mdf and then later on replacing components with aluminum, etc.) later on. I want to use my first machine as a stepping stone for bigger and better machines later on down the line. For now I was thinking of starting out with 200 Oz In. steppers that I saw at a surplus store. I'll get better steppers later on. Or should I wait until I have the money and just go for brand new steppers?

Second, I'll only be cutting into wood, plastic, and possibly aluminum sheet metal at first. I would like to cut vinyl sheet/film (like a vinyl plotter/cutter), but I don't know where to begin with that. I need to learn more about vinyl plotter/cutter blades before I even attempt to take that on. I think that I'll use my Dremel for now and once I have the need for something bigger, I'll get a trim router or something. Will Dremel be adequate for now?


As of now, I have yet to decide on what plans to go with. I'm leaning toward a Solsylva plan. Could it be possible to add the vinyl film cutting capability to one of these plans? Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance!

Miguel

[GaryCorlew]

Check out the jgro plans here on cnczone the price is good at free!! The 200 oz steppers will be fine for a machine up to about 24" x 48"

[MAAD]

Thanks Gary, I'll look into those plans. Do you think that the jgro plans are good for future upgrades? Like is mentioned before, I'm hoping to build a machine that can be upgraded to possibly cut vinyl film.

[GaryCorlew]

that depends on the size of the pieces you want to cut, I have never cut vinyl, But I think it would cut vinyl as is no upgrade needed. As far as future upgrades it depends on what you mean by upgrades.