Need help setting up a lathe(Sherline)

like the awg size, solid or not, if there are like ribbon cables kind of thing.

Use stranded with ferrules where it is in cable clamps.

Use AWG suitable for the current. Logic wires need not be any bigger than 26awg, and smaller wires take up less space.

For wires that move, look at dedicated drag-chain cables.

kbec wrote: How did you construct your controller box?
I was also wondering what type of wire I should use to cable everything

I like this type for cabling from stepper drivers to the stepper motors: www.mcmaster.com/8082k81 Goes great with GX12-5 or GX12-4 connectors. Probably overkill for a Sherline setup though. Shielded type is definitely a good idea.

Logic level from 7i96 to stepper drivers can be small gauge, i.e. >=24AWG. It's useful to use various colors. I usually use silicone insulated wire as it's easy to strip with fingernails, like this www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073RDK4C9 I also recommend ferrules, makes everything neat.