I have a cheap wrapping jig but the only part of it I use is to mount the wrapping thread so that I can keep tension on it. I hold the rod in my hands and just turn it keeping tension on the thread. The other suggestions you've gotten here (running the thread thru a heavy book or using a bobbin) are also good ones.

And I'd argue that building a rod from scratch IS cheaper than buying one. the 1st rod I ever built was on a Sage VT2 blank. Blank cost me $200, hardware about $75-100 and supplies about another $50. Cost for a VT2 at the time was $400. And subsequent rods you now have your glues and epoxy so you'll save even more.

Good luck!! You WILL have fun!