I wish I could help ya Trendy. My skills at handiwork are pathetic. I bought an Obutto cockpit.
Back a few pages, Baked has pictures of his rig that he made out of PVC. It looks nice and stout. Hit those guys up for there ideas. I don't know what the materials will cost. It's gotta be cheaper than buying premade. My Cost $300 5 years ago.
Best of luck to you sir. Also, you will not regret getting a wheel! It will take an adjustment period, but in the end you will be sooooooo much happier!