I agree, buying is the safest and probably cheapest solution. I have used KBIC controllers for at least 10 years on a couple of DC motors. They are "open frame," so you need to build them into the machine or put in a box to be really safe. There is one on ebay that is the type that should work: **broken link removed**
I am not recommending that particular seller or device. I show it so you can see what the KBIC series looks like. The ceramic resistor on the left side must be changed to meet to suit the current motor, but there is not a lot to deciding what size to use. Check out KB Drives for more information.
John