i'm not really into the ornamental aspect of rod building, that kind of thing is way above me. i just build functional sticks, mainly because i enjoy it and i can build rods that surpass just about any factory job in quality and feel(at least to my hands, but that's all that matters to me).

getting one of the kits would not be a bad start, i built my own wrapper instead, though. some guys use a cardboard box with "V" notches cut in the ends and a heavy book for thread tension, but i like something a little more robust.

i would highly recommend getting a good finishing/drying motor and stand setup, because no matter how pretty it looks before you lay down epoxy, if you don't do a good job of that it will look crummy.

basic supplies i would recommend for somebody wanting to take up the hobby:

nylon thread, size A, multiple colors
disposable brushes(i have the best luck with kids watercolor paint brushes)
stirring sticks and plastic graduated measuring cups
2-part thread finish(i like threadmaster)
2-part rod builders epoxy(for cork/reel seats etc)
burnishing tool, SHARP razor blades
assortment of cork reamers(batson's dream reamer set is a good one that will handle most steelhead type rods)
1/4" wide masking tape

starting off on a lower-priced blank is good but make sure it's something that you'd want to actually use so you'll put some effort in. cabelas' fish eagle II blanks are only 30 bucks and you can make some great rods on them. assemble it with some cheaper corks, a set of fuji hardloy guides and a decent reel seat, and you can come in with a very good rod for 60 bucks.