The Thatcher aircraft are “scratch built” all metal Experimental LSA Category aircraft designed by David Thatcher of Pensacola, Florida. Retired from a long career in the aircraft industry, Dave set about designing the plane he wanted to fly. It had to look good, fly well and be easy to self-build. The result was the CX4 which he flew to Oshkosh.
Since then several things have happened. Many builders, in multiple countries around the world have built and flown CX4s, and Dave has expanded on the original single-seat design to add first a tandem and now side-by-side two-seat versions. The CX5 (tandem) two seat version has been flying since 2013, which is when Glen Bradly became the test pilot for Thatcher Aircraft. In 2020 the CX7 (side-by side) two seater was completed and test flown.
All three Thatcher Designs fit the LSA rules (as long as the builder keeps the weight within limits). This means only a class 3 medical or better yet a valid US drivers license is all that’s required to keep your Sport Pilot license and fly your CX4/5/7. They are also designed for full-sized people not FAA-sized imaginary people so the cabin has space for those of us who are tall or wide (or both)!
These are not kit planes, they exist on paper until the builder makes wood forms and bends aluminum (or aluminium depending on the continent)! There are some third-party suppliers who sell some of the more involved parts such as wing spars, and the welded engine mounts, but overall you’re starting from scratch and building an airplane.
That said, the design of the CX series means the tools required are mostly from the home center / DIY / hardware store rather than aviation-specific. The skill level required is that of a conscientious wood-worker / mechanic / DIY enthusiast, you do not need to be an aerodynamicist, professional A&P mechanic or aviation engineer. Things like the control cables, nuts and bolts, rivets, etc. are all standard aviation parts specified in the plans and available from suppliers like Wick’s or Aircraft Spruce.
Have a look at Glen’s experience having started from zero experience.
There is an active builder community using Groups.io for e-mail conversations. If you’re even thinking about building your own aircraft then go view and search the conversations and join the group to ask questions and contribute.