Share your supplier!

From Patrick Lidstone on the mailing list, 9 Sep 2026 14:42 UTC

I'm looking for local suppliers of material for my small cnc (30cm x 30cm
bed approx). Aluminium billet, in particular. And hardwoods. I imagine it's
the sort of thing local engineering firms or carpentry companies might have
as scrap offcuts? I see offcuts being resold on ebay for frankly silly
prices and would prefer to buy local if possible (weight has to be a big
factor in cost of shipping). Any pointers would be very much appreciated.

Online, I've found a fairly priced site with bars the right sort of
dimensions for my project by the metre - https://www.1stchoicemetals.co.uk
Hardwood in known sizes at a "fair" price remains elusive.

Thanks gang!

Patrick

From Chris Bolton on the mailing list, 10 Sep 2026 22:34 UTC

Hi Patrick,

I can ask on the Bideford FB community groups as I know there's a few small joinery and light engineering works in Bideford that may prove fruitful.  In fact I saw a chap loading black bags full of what was probably offcuts into his car today from the joiners on the Nutaberry estate... though it might have been something a bit more dodgy;)

Chris

From Patrick Lidstone on the mailing list, 11 Sep 2026 02:45 UTC

Hi Chris
Yes please!
I did wonder about adding them to the website too?
It's all so expensive, especially in the learning phase!
P.

From Chris Bolton on the mailing list, 15 Sep 2026 06:34 UTC

Hi Patrick,

I put a post out on the Bideford Community FB page but haven't had any response at all:(  I'll try widening the audience.

If you're ever passing Bideford the re-use area at the recycling centre is always worth a visit👍

BR  Chris

From Patrick Lidstone on the mailing list, 15 Sep 2026 07:44 UTC

Thanks Chris, that's very kind.
I have found some bargain bamboo wood chopping boards on amazon (prompted
by an off-list suggestion to perhaps look in the charity shops), but chunks
of aluminium and nice hardwoods are still proving elusive. Not surprising I
guess, ho hum.
Will definitely pop in to the recycling centre.
Patrick

From fixit9660 on the mailing list, 15 Sep 2026 07:56 UTC

Hi Patrick,

I have to agree (and forgot to mention it L ) the re-use area at Recycling Centres are a good, cheap source. I’ve bought two VGA 4:3 Ratio monitors from our local site (Anvil Corner) for Retro computers and they’re still working fine.

Mind you they got really upset when I wanted to retrieve a broken TI99/4A from the electronics skip. L

Oh well…

Andy.

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From Patrick Lidstone on the mailing list, 15 Sep 2026 07:59 UTC

That's gutting!
I'm tempted to try and make friends with e-waste folk, but fear for the
inevitable consequences...

Patrick