for my next project i'm planning to make a transmitter
using frsky gimbals , stm32 processor and frsky rf module.
lcd will be a normal 16x2 variety.

the part where i am stuck .... is that i have been unable to locate
a suitable casing/enclosure.

i would like the retro look i.e vinl covered aluminium box .

does any one have any ideas ? or know of sources where I could get
an empty casing?

You can fabricate a case from Aluminium Sheet like a vintage radio or you can make one out of Acrylic.
                                                                                       All the best for your project

Good to see response from a new member.
Hope to find a Kraft tx case in my old gang...

Will 16 X 2 be enough? As a second opinion, you might consider the graphic LCD's or even the OLED one's.

yes I thought about fabricating a case from alu sheet ... but such a enclosure will never have
the clean finish that I am looking for .

after thinking about it last night - I will start looking for :

- plastic/ metal switch boxes that are used for mounting domestic switches , plugs etc...
- plastic/metal pencil boxes / "dabbas"  of appropriate shape and size.
- discarded electronics .... eg old dvd player / old DTH boxes etc...

making one from arcylic is a great idea and will explore this further if I fail to locate
a readymade item.

regarding LCD .... since I am only going to fly basic 3 and 4 channel models a 16x2 should suffice.
no helis no multirotors.

Also I am going to mount the 2.4 GHZ antenna internally and have a 72 MHZ dummy antenna with
a red frequency pennant.

A Kraft tx is the look I am trying for ...

anyone has any idea how to make label tags for the switches ?

https://www.foxtechfpv.com/frsky-radio-case-for-taranis-x9d-p-928.html

https://www.foxtechfpv.com/frsky-radio-case-for-taranis-x9d-p-928.html