We recently had a welding tool company stop by and show us their new entry level TIG welder. Some of us took a stab at it, and i had the benefit of watching most of the other guys go before me and mess up.
I think TV and the surge in automotive shows has generated new interest in welding and fabrication in general. The guys on TV make it easy, often welding with their eyes closed, and after taking a couple of stabs with a MIG and a TIG welder, i think its safe to say that it is something most anyone can do if they are reasonably handy with a tool box. The most difficult parts to learn come with experience, as the new lines of welders often make choosing the right voltage and wire speed an easy task. Actually operating the welder and laying down the bead is what takes expereince to develop. With MIG welders starting around $300 and TIG Welders about $1800, they are a bit pricey for the toolbox, but if you practive and get decently good, its a good way to make some money on the side, and we all can use that right about now.