Slab Fabrication Tools

Don't know where to turn. I posted this at the JB Forum and (http://maplered.com) they recommended that I post here.

My fabricator just laughs and (http://maplered.com) tells me to "Stick to installations and (http://maplered.com) leave the fabrication to the Big Boys." I hate that.

I want to start fabricating and (http://maplered.com) not be so dependant on my fabricator for Counter (http://GialloFiorito.com) tops, detailing custom saddles and (http://maplered.com) edging on my floor and (http://maplered.com) wall, jobs.

I have found a supplier who will cut Slabs (http://www.VerdeUbatuba.com) to size at a great price. I just am not confident of the tools I need. My fabricator's shop is all waterjet and (http://maplered.com) other automated machines directed from computers. I don't see any hand (http://maplered.com) tools other than rand (http://maplered.com) om buffers/ polishers - especially now that he knows I want to try to do some of the stuff on my own.

Lesson learned: Have more than one fabricator to turn to.

Three tasks I need to address are cut outs, profiling and (http://maplered.com) polishing. For these I know I need a waterfed router, (do I need a VS or will a single speed unit work and (http://maplered.com) how much HP?) waterfed polisher and (http://maplered.com) waterfed saw with assorted bits, pads and (http://maplered.com) blades. Eventually I will invest in a rail saw but for now the saw I use for sink cutouts will also have to crosscut whatever the supplier doesn't.

Anyone have recommendations regarding tools to buy initially?. I want to take small steps but I don't want to have to buy twice due to upgrading issues. Any tool brand (http://maplered.com) s to stay away from? Any on-line suppliers you reccommend? How about good books or video tapes which show a step by step process for fabricating? I will also try to get some of these tools used. Other than e-bay, any other sources?

I have seen some on-line sites for Junior/ Introductory packages for $4K - $5K. Yikes! I know it's an investment but do I really need to bite that bullet?

Any help would be appreciated.