<p>The most important step in assembling a kit is soldering. If any ONE solder joint is flawed it can result in intermittent functionality and frustration.<br />
Soldering is a skill. Don't expect it to be easy right away. It takes time and practice. There are lots of good soldering tutorials online. I HIGHLY recommend you read through one or two before you get started. </p>
<p>Using a good iron makes an enormous difference. I used $10 radio shack irons for years and finally bought a $150 Weller brand soldering station a few years ago. I just wish I had gotten it sooner. It has made my life so much easier!!!</p>
<p>I understand that not everyone wants to pay $150 for a soldering iron. Using a cheap iron makes things much more difficult, but there are a few steps you can take to make it  easier.</p>
<p>One of the BIGGEST problems with using a cheap iron is that the tip gets dirty and doesn't heat evenly. Keeping the tip clean will make even a piece of junk iron easy to use.</p>
<p>-Use tip tinner. This is a little container of compressed, powdered solder and flux. It cleans and tins the tip of your iron.<br />
http://www.all-spec.com/products/51303199.html</p>
<p>-Use a tip polishing bar.<br />
This is a great product. Use it on your iron BEFORE you start soldering while the iron is still cold.  It removes all the grime, grease and oxidized crap from your iron.<br />
http://www.all-spec.com/products/WPB1.html</p>
<p>-Keep the tip of your iron clean while soldering. I use a damp sponge to wipe off excess solder and clean the tip. Some people prefer wire sponges.<br />
http://www.all-spec.com/products/599-029.html</p>
<p>-Use fine, flux core solder. Lead free is "healthier" but harder to use.<br />
I use Kester brand .031" flux core solder. 63% tin 37% lead. Other kinds will work but this stuff is great.<br />
http://www.all-spec.com/products/KW24525.html</p>
<p>For more info on the tools I use in my shop go here:<br />
http://casperelectronics.com/finished-pieces/circuit-bending-tutorial/tools/
</p>
