I started wrapping rods just for my self at first like you are planning to do and eventually for friends too but I never had much time (spent most my free time fishing) to devote to it. Over the last 15 years I've probably wrapped about a 100 or more rods. Just like the other post mentioned, I don't think I've ever wrapped one that I would consider perfect but through the years I picked up some tricks that have lead to an easier and better end result. If you can get some one who knows how to wrap just to show you the basics (spine finding, basic wrapping, stripes/fades, guide prepping, guide placement, and glassing) you will save a lot of time and possibly some frustration. Good luck!

JerryG