Thanks guys.
I am working on my first project, a scoring machine for the game of darts.
I decided to base it on an atmega 328, and maxim 7219.
Bought display 7 segment leds, an arduino uno, maxim 7219 etc.
Patched up a prototype using veroboards and programmed the arduino, and now it works just fine, even makes a sound if user errors and plays a tune for a win.
Now working on the physical construction.
Made the keypads, using Cherry MX keyboard switches mounted through 1.5mm aluminium plate.
Made the front panel from the side of an old computer case.
Cut and fitted red tinted perspex in the display windows I had cut out.
Working on trying to make the circuit boards at the moment.