Yo, If you have the urge to work with your hands to make and instrument that truly fits you, then building your own instrument is never a waste of time, regardless what some folks may say. I've made about 50 guitars and basses over the part ten years. All from blank lumber - no kits. To be frank though, expect the first several to be a bit rough until 1) you have developed the skills to take the idea in your head and carve it into a peace of wood and 2) you have experimented enough to know what fits you. There is a number of forums, some very good ones on linkd-in of all places, that have a lot of good info and people willing to help out. Don't give up. Shoot a reply if you have any specific questions.
