what would be the cheapest way to start learning to rod build for some one who is on s.s.i and on a very tight budget?

Go read up in some of the rod building forums online.  Get an idea of the cost involved for tools, supplies, blanks, equipment, etc.

Nothing cheap about being in the game, that also adds to the glamour of having one hand made by one of these guys, just for you.  Most builder make VERY LITTLE profit on a build, it's more about being the artist and making something that someone will personally value.  With that said, the cost for the blanks and eyes alone are usually more than a mid level, store bought rod.

what would be the cheapest way to start learning to rod build for some one who is on s.s.i and on a very tight budget?

First off a lot of reading. There is no way to learn rod building cheaply, or easily. Rod building is combination of Art and Science. Start with this sticky thread and follow all of the links contained in it....

Newbies with rod building questions.