Joseph one of the best ways I've learned to do things -- before YouTube -- is trial and error. I have NEVER made a mistake in my life; but I have had a multitude of learning experiences that were unplanned. Rich Murphy just posted a video about the differences in hard and soft wood that is very helpful. In the video he mentions that dimensional pine from a lumber yard can be the least expensive wood (or something like that). When trying something new I use the "cheaper" pine for my prototype and learning experience. I suggest you go forth and make some sawdust.

Very helpful video for both the beginner and the veteran. Great lessons for the beginner and really nice refresher for the veteran.

Another source to save some money by selectively choosing what you buy is TEMU. I've bought some items and have been satisfied. How can you go wrong with a silicon glue tray and brush for $3? I have a Kreg KMA 3000 Panel Carrier ($24.99) that makes is easier for this old guy (78) to carry a full sheet of 3/4 plywood. Saw the same item, just not painted for $13.59 on TEMU. Haven't bought any yet, but their clamps look okay, will buy a couple and see how they compare to the more expensive brand name. Not necessarily a fan of buying directly from China, but being on a fixed income in this economy with the soaring inflation sometimes you have to do what you have to do.

@Jered Agnes I've got the Kreg carrier, so wasn't looking to buy another one. But will be checking out the clamps sometime in the future. I have TEMU's silicon glue tray and brush and they work just fine. I also bought a small device (has a 45* angle across it) for finding the center of small dowels and that works quite well. I'm awaiting a arrival of some hardware (bolts and star knobs) for use with t-track.

There's no such thing as "scrap" wood; it's just wood that I haven't used yet.