Welcome rpb to the greatest fly fishing site in existence. Study the beginning fly tying pages here on FAOL and also other sites. The Thompson A is good advice. I would avoid Kits as they are usually inferior and expensive. There are lots of good used vices and tools on Ebay, as well as materials. If you need anything, a simple request on this site will bring you tons of stuff and usually free. Remember "new guy chops the wood and brings the beer !"