Honestly its not that expensive you can get the parts in lots on eBay for reasonably cheap (considering the price of completed sets). I have at least two "completed" (don't care about the cardboard... And got a trash monster as a kid for $8?.... An the "rope" is pointless anyway) You just have to watch out for broken tabs etc.
I plan on eventually turning a set or so into the second death star or updating the detailing.
But I must say this Geonosian diorama is fantastic... Not just for laughs but to actually see them build it is very fun/cool. Great job!