my first rod was a cabelas stowaway kit - No problems with the epoxy or thread covering in it.

Its really gonna be tough to really screw it up - just make sure things fit and are the way you want them before you epoxy or put finish on them.

with a kit and everything you need in front of you - I think you could get your rod done in 3 days. And still be able to do other stuff during those days.
I'd be more than happy to help however I can.