I got started not long ago and quickly realized that I suck at it, but I've never been real good with my hands, nor do I have a lot of patience. I started talking to a guy who also just started and kinda handed everything over to him. He's super cool and really enjoys building. I lucked out big time. He builds whatever I want free of any labor charges. It gives him an excuse to sample blanks and components I'm having him use, plus if he wants to build a stick for himself he can tell his wife it's for me. Ha! I've noticed his work is getting better and he was d**n good off the get go. His work is amazing and I'm quite grateful. It's not for everyone, but if you're meticulous you shouldn't have any problems, you'll just end up with more rods than you know what to do with.