Hi,

I’m completely new at soldering and electronics in general. I just saw a cool clip by Bre Pettis and Joe Grand http://blip.tv/file/126631

The main reason why I would like to learn how to solder is to be able to install the electronics in my guitar (pots, pickups switch etc..) myself instead of having to take my guitar to a tech every time I want to try out a set of new pickups..

In addition, I was able to find a bunch of kewl kits that I could build and have some fun as well! so I guess it would be soldering for both (guitar electronics and kits)

In the very end of the clip, Bre talks about kewl soldering kits that are available in the Maker store, including some that were designed by Joe himself….

These are my questions:

1. Would it be worth starting with the Make-it tool kit? (I wonder what is the wattage of the soldering iron… A friend recommended I get a soldering iron with high wattage for soldering the pots of a guitar because of the amount of metal contained in the pot. )

http://store.makezine.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=MKEMKIT

2. Anyone know a good beginner’s kit to practice soldering and desoldering? (Joe mentions that there are some that he made but which ones?)

3. Any recommendations as far as getting a starter’s book on intro to electronics? (something that a lay person would understand…. not too technical) I guess I’m looking for something more practical than theoretical…

Any advice is greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

Helena