Though 3D printers get a lot of attention, they do have their limits, such as speed and variety of materials. Fortunately there are digital fabrication tools available, including the CNC router. One such router is the “Creation Station” from Innovation Squared LLC. According to its description, “Never before has such a capable CNC machine been available for such an affordable price!”
This is a pretty bold claim, but as an owner of a CNC router myself, the machine does have a very impressive set of specs. The work area is a generous 24″ x 24″and everything is actuated by lead screws, instead of belts that can stretch over time. Additionally, it comes with the router motor/spindle itself, as well as a copy of VCarve Pro. You’ll need to provide an older PC with a (free) copy of LinuxCNC on it as well as router bits, but other than that, this package should have everything you need to start cutting!
If you are considering a piece of equipment like this, be sure to check out the Innovation Squared LLC store for this router in slightly different configurations.