I have just started building quads... They are a lot of fun and make a good trainer to move on to heli's if you like.
Here are a few pic's of my Quads... I can fly any where from 7 to 11 min depending on the flight style.


Here is a parts list to build a Quad Multi rotor Copter
Frames,Props and motors @
BlueSkyRC
Frame: xRotor Spider Quad, or xRotor Sport Quad
Motor: Suppo 2212-11-1200kv Outrunner
Props: 8 x 4.5 Props (Quad 4 pack) 5mm hub
I think the Spider Quad will be the best to start with.
You have a mount for a camera down the road if you do FPV or in flight video,also the
orientation would be better. Or even a Tri Copter.
Speed Controls, wire ,props, ect @
RCtimer
Speed control / ESC:
Programmable ESC 20A Brushless Motor Speed Controller
Program card for esc:
RCtimer Card
Silicon Wire: All sizes of WIRE
eBay program card:
Hobbywing Pentium Series Speed Controller Program Card
Control Board:
Hobby King
HobbyKing Quadcopter Control Board V2.1 (Atmega168PA)
eBay:
USB Loader USBasp Programmer + KK multicopter Board
I have bought from this seller shipped quick even from china 11 days
Batteries:
Hobby King Turnigy nano-tech 2200mah 3S 45~90C Lipo Pack (USA Warehouse)