IMO I wouldn't trust a "Homemade stand"...not saying that you cant weld aluminum
but I'll let the manufacturer deal with why I fell from it...or why the weld broke.

Hit some websites and download some pics of stands to get an idea on measurements
and angles.
Good luck to you and I hope your real close to your teacher as he/she is going to have
some say in the final outcome.
IDEA: Christmas is just down the road...maybe have the family
pitch in and get you a stand...one with a name and warrantyattached toit. Just a thought.