Why did each of you decide to make a DIY CNC rather than purchase one? Please describe your equipment, how many axis, x,y,z capabilities, etc. What types of things do you make with your CNC? What would you do differently now that this technology is more mainstream?
More satisfaction knowing you designed and built from nothing.
3 axis XYZ all driven by nema23 3.1Nm steppers
still under construction.
Vi like to do cool thing
I have a 3 axis CNC. Nema 17 motors. I built my own for cost reasons. Also the challenge of building my own from scraps. Ultimately I may wind up buying commercial parts but for now it’s fun seeing how far I can get on guess work.
Mine’s not built, a pile of parts in a corner and the Mantis plans, but I’m with Daniel, it’s cost.
…cost, hobby, curiosity…3axis, xyz,nema23…
3 axis nema 23 . And now starting on a new one 4 axis nema 23. From scrap and price less parts on e bay 
it is fun a great hobby. And fun way to learn about mechanics and eletric. making car parts and things around the house about everyrhing i can make my self instead of buing
Actually it is a complete Chinese machine but I have to replace all the electronics, install a larger stepper on the 4th axis,… to make it usable.
Just keeping the mechanics
Hi Jean, I actually purchased a small Chinese 3040 style router first. I quickly outgrew this and decided to sell it on eBay. Since then I have purchased a manual milling machine and converted it to CNC using a C10 breakout board, Keiling 48vdc transformer, Keiling KL-5056 digital drivers, Computer transformer and Nema 23 570oz/in stepper motors etc… Free to check out my vids on YouTube “DCTteacher1”.
The challenge, and the widespread and cheap availability of parts now, compared to say 20 years ago. From control boards to motors, to screws, a lot more is out there now.
(I just joined this gruop, thanks for accepting me!). I’m just starting to gather parts for a 4x8 build from hardware only CncRouterParts.com kit. I need the CNC for doing prototype work, and frankly, I just couldn’t afford it any other way. Even going the “DIY” route is stretching my budget, but I am hoping that it will pay off eventually.