This is John. I'm new to machining but recently purchased a lathe & mill cx701 and cx600. I've got some small welders too including a ac/dc Tig. I like sketch up for designing stuff. I'm looking to learn lots and make more things with metal. Combining my IT programing background with CNC home brew looks pretty interesting. I'm an analyst in IT at an oil company. Things I have made so far: motorcycle dolly, a stool, lumber racks, curtain holders for a exhibit booth, some tool holding odds ends. I need some good references on design, mechanical design practices. Things I want to build:
Motorized power feed for the mill
Motorized lift for the wood band saw
Motorized beveler or metal edger
Powered lift for lifting up / down tires for the truck.