Looks are preference, not everyone has the same opinion.
Also, if you guys are trina find a place to weld, there are probably a million places around. Talk to people at your school. You never know who's dad mitt own a car shop, thus giving you access to a welder. Get people involved that can hook you up.
If that's not possible, keep checking craigslist of discount tool stores for good deals on welders.
Worst case, you may have to talk to a local warehouse or car shop, any place with a welder, until you can find someone who might let you use one.
It'll be an expensive venture, because buying good material can be quite costly.