I'm really anxious to see this one completed because I want to build my own metal shaper too. I recently was able to score around 1000 lbs of scrap steel free so now I have the bulk of the material needed for it. I realized that I'll need a welder so first I'm going to have to build a TIG welder on a budget (I have a plan). I also bought an old used surface plate so now I have a way to make really flat surfaces and I'm gradually gearing up to start this project.

Keep on going man - your projects are often really inspiring.