1. How much cheaper is it to build yourself a clone of your favorite pedal or amp? Maybe I should ask what percentage of an amp or pedal's price is the cost of the materials used?
2. Is there any free lesson on electronics that I can take to help me build a clone of an amp or pedal?
I dream of making my own pedals (clones) and it will be purely for personal use. Not for commercial use.
I have woodworking skills and planning to build my first speaker cabinet soon but I also like to try tube amp building and pedals/footswitches.
Cheaper? I do not think that is the right analogy of cloning pedals since most of the stuff are not available in the Philippines so you have to ship it unless it's in bulk, then it comes with a price. i.e. That reverb chip used in Malekko Spring Chicken.
But experience wise, and if you really are a DIY type of guy I suggest you give it a go. It's ok to start with clones but what I learned from experience is that clones are good but what good would it be of you can just buy them? So you may want to try modification and putting your own flavor in the end. Having a breadboard could save you a lot of time, frustration and all other things, money. Invest in breadboard as well as a good soldering iron sir.
Above all else never forget to enjoy!