This isn't anything that I can write up in a decent amount of time, but there are plenty of tutorials on the internet, both text and photp and video. Search "bicycle wheel alignment" or bicycle wheel truing.
The only tool that's absolutely necessary is a spoke (nipple) wrench. Vise grips won't do the job and will rapidly destroy the nipples.
Another option is to work with a co-op, where you'll pay a small fee for the privilege of using their tools, but there's also mechanic who can coach you as you go along. IMO, that's the best approach, and there are co-ops in both Kansas City and St. Louis. I know they're far, but it might be worth the effort to get there.
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