I really like the ferret and critter nation cages too, but if you are trying to save money and you have the time Tractor Supply does carry the 1/2" x 1" cage wire in a gauge sturdy enough that it doesn't need any frame supports. It comes in 10' x 2' sections for $20 (2 rolls for a 3' x 2' cage or 3 rolls for a 4' x 2' cage.) You would need c rings (also called hog rings) and a c ring tool (sold at martinscages.com) or j clamps and a j clamp tool (sold at tractor supply). They also have cage pans, but they are the heavy plastic so you could get a metal cage pan from bassequipment.com for about $25 plus shipping depending on the size. To cut the wire you can use the heavy duty blue handled wire cutters electricians use. You will also need a metal sander to sand down the sharp nubs from cutting the wire. This will save you a little money and takes a couple of hours to make, but it won't be as nice as the ferret nation cages, which also come with a nice stand on wheels.