So, I've got this completely up and running with GameEx as the front end & windows completely hidden. GameEx is absolutely superb by the way.
I ran into a few problems with my control panel - I knew I shouldn't have used it from the start... I wasn't happy with the position of my spinner, It was just too close to the stick. Also the angle of the control panel wasn't exactly how I wanted it.
I decided to move the spinner up a little & slightly left, that way its completely out of the way. I then slightly altered my CPO and printed a new one out.
I dont know how I didn't see that problem coming when I drew it...
After that I built a slightly altered copy of the Control Panel from MDF. Its a million times better, more comfortable, lighter. The joysticks are fixed underneath with screw-in dynafix inserts.
I think I can call this thing finished now..