I learned how to weld in high-school years ago. It would be sort of nice to be able to weld a thing or two now, but my skills are probably not very good, and safety is very important. Also, the equipment isn't cheap.
A cheap inverter arc welder is a few hundred dollars - not expensive.
Hire one and have a go on any 5mm+ steel job you have and you will likely surprise yourself.
The inverter welders are also way easier to use (and portable) compared to the old school transformer welders (i.e. don't buy a second hand transformer welder unless you are a hipster).
