Someone taught me how to weld. I really didn't like it. It's one of the things that I gladly pay someone in a shop to do. I just take my project to them and it's been very reasonable to get done.

My suggestion is to ask everyone you know if they know how and would teach you. If you find someone, you wouldn't have to buy anything, at least not to learn. Adult education may have a class near you. That usually involves a nominal fee, but less than your own equipment would cost. Used equipment can always be found on Craigslist, at estate sales, etc. Someone you know may have a welding unit sitting around not being used anymore. Good luck, Linda

I enjoy torch cutting and welding I don't care as much for the arc welding but I do it and love being able to make my own junk things without having to go to a pro.

I was lucky Coloredthumb and her DH taught me to arc-weld and oxy-acetylene gas cut and weld. He still helps me and allows me to use his equipment. I just replace supplies often. He won't take money for that. Both types of welding are dangerous even for experienced welders. Welding instruction and equipment is never really going to be "On the cheap" Good instructors are worth every penny, and cheap equipment is just that cheap and prone to dysfunction. You may be able to barter the instruction for something you can do. Some equipment rental places will rent arc-welders but not oxy-acetylene torches usually. Then equipment rentals will eventually add up to more than you would spend on a good small arc welder.
Like lindasewandsew said looking around for local help from friends or maybe Vo-tech school. is probably best bet.
Good Luck
Lil

I'm not sure "cheap" and "welding" go together. Lil had great advice - either ask for help from friends or take a class at a Vo-Tech school. If you decide to invest in the equipment do your homework. An inexpensive welding unit may not be able to weld heavier metal. Make sure what you buy will be able to handle the projects you have planned. Good luck! Vicki

Thanks for the help.

That is just what I though. Time money and energy as usual.

I want to build some really cool stuff in my orchard for the public.

Thanks for the help and I'll let you know how it goes.

Buck

DH does a little welding from time to time and he usually gets supplies from Harbor Freight.

There's also a metalworking forum over on the Home side of Gardenweb.

Here is a link that might be useful: metalworking forum