Looking for materials for easy build

[Guest luftwaffle]

I'm planning to build a light, portable and self contained panel with an LCD monitor and some controls. I don't have experience, tools and workspace so I need a frame that is easy to put together. I basically need a scaled up version of an Erector or Meccano set.I'm in the US.Thanks for any information!

[rickalty]

Easiest answer would be plastic sheet from your local TAP plastic, or similar, and aluminum angle for the frame. The only tools you'll need - if you buy the plastic cut to size - is a small electric drill and a screwdriver. (Or, for a tidier job, blow $10 on a hand pop-rivet gun and rivet the plastic to the frame.)Richard

[Guest luftwaffle]

where can I find angle cut to a size I can use? I also need some corner brackets. I went to Lowes and did not find any angle already cut near the lengths I need (pieces about 1, 1 1/2 - 2 ft and 6", and no corner brackets either). I'm seriously confused, where do people buy this kind of stuff from!?!?!?!

[rickalty]

Any decent hardware store will cut it to length for you - my local OSH, for example, charges $0.50 a cut.To do it that way, of course, you need to be REALLY sure about your measurements before you go shopping. :-)But even though you say you have no tools, I'd still advise cutting it yourself. Aluminium is really soft - 1/2" or 3/4" angle can be cut in just a few seconds with a $5 handsaw, and a $1.99 mitre box will make sure that your 45' angles really are 45'.I guarantee that once you start building you're going to want to do more, so rather than be paying cutting fees forever (and rebuying when you realise you've cut something 1/4" too short....) you might as well spend that money on a few tools anyway.For a simple aluminium frame/plastic sheet setup, you're talking about a small saw, a hand-drill, a Mitre box, and either a pop-riveter or a screwdriver and wrench set. Total, maybe $20. No work area? For another $20 get a table-top workmate - combination worksurface and vice/clamp.Richard

[Guest luftwaffle]

you, my friend, make this idea very attractive :)I have a cordless powered drill but I'm not sure it can drill through metal because of its low power.

[Guest Boeing722]

Aluminum is very soft, you shouldn't have any trouble with material up to 1/8" or about 3mm as long as your bits are sharp.