Putting a date on your build is creating a deadline that you really don't need.  It only creates stress, and when you inevitably run into problems and make mistakes, it can cause you to rush, which is even worse.

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Instead, enjoy your build for the fulfilling and pleasing hobby that it is.  Most people take up instrument making as a pass time, not a job.  Adding a deadline turns it into a job, and it loses its stress relieving and refreshing feeling.

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Become Familiar with the Entire Process

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As a beginner, it's important to understand the entire process of making your instrument before you make your first cut.  This way, you know what's coming, and you know how the build will progress.

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When you have a good understanding of the process, you will make less mistakes, and you will have less surprises along the way.  In the end, this academic learning before you start building can be a real asset.

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The easiest way to get this kind of learning is to read books.  Buy several books on the instrument you want to make, and read them cover to cover.  Then, find some good websites and read them through as well.  The more knowledge you begin with, the better your build will be.

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Watch Lots of Videos

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One of my favorite methods for learning a lot about a project is to watch videos.  Thanks to YouTube, there are millions of videos on nearly every subject imaginable.  This includes many different instrument makers.

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One thing that a video can do for you that a book cannot is show you exactly how to do something almost as if it were live.  Event the best of pictures miss the detail that a video can provide, and it can be the difference between fully understanding a concept or not.

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As you watch videos, play close attention, and really absorb the material.  Instrument makers love sharing, and their videos will be a great source of knowledge.  You will be surprised at how fast you can pick up a technique simply by watching someone do it first.

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Be Prepared for Mistakes

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Know this now.  You are going to make mistakes.  Likely, you are going to make a lot of mistakes, especially on a first build.  As a reference, I probably built every part of my first guitar twice, which I'm certain is some kind of record.

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When you make mistakes, you are in good company.  Everyone makes mistakes, the way to deal with them is the difference between who goes on to be successful in making instruments and who quits half way through the first build. 

 

When a mistake happens, learn from it, and let it go.  In the end a mistake only costs a few dollars in wood and some of your time.  It's frustrating, but going forward with a stressed mindset is asking for more problems.

 

Know When to Take a Break

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Finally, it's important to know when to take a break.  There are times when you just need to stop, and knowing when those times come is important.  Stopping can be the difference between pulling out of a nose dive, or crashing into the mountain.

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When you are frustrated, mad, tired, or just can't get some technique right, stop and take a break. Stopping will allow your