So I can say… There’s no painting or gluing involved. The biggest thing is getting rid of the nubs where you cut it, with glass file + sanding paper. I usually spend a lot of time on this but only because I’m anal about it.

Also, as far as cost, first kit I got (Aerial) was I think $17? The tools I mostly already had, don’t cost too much online. The fancier kits definitely get pricey, but the High Grade kits are usually $15-$25, which isn’t too pricey compared to a lot of hobbies. I’m also looking into bootleg kits which can be a decent amount cheaper, especially for Master Grade and similar.l, but I have no clue about typical quality yet with those.