If you are like me, then you desperately want a CNC router. And, if you are as frugal as I am, then you can't justify spending the exorbitant amount of money for a CNC machine just so you can impress your friends with custom DIY projects. The answer to this dilemma of design versus cost might be coming from Kickstarter.
According to Avery Thompson for Popular Mechanics: "The Maslow router, currently on Kickstarter, is an affordable CNC router that's also compact. It's a 4'x8' router, meaning you'll be able to cut pieces large enough for pretty much any project, and it's currently available for $350, which is about ten times cheaper than you'd find elsewhere for a router this size.
The Maslow comes as a kit, so you'd have to assemble it yourself, but there are easy-to-follow instructions and a forum in case you get stuck. As with any crowdfunded project, you're donating, not buying, and there are always risks involved, so spend your money wisely and do your research."