Lacing standard 3-cross is easy if you have good instructions. I use Jobst Brandt's instructions from his book "The Bicycle Wheel", but Sheldon's instructions are also good and will produce in the same wheel.
Lacing is actually easier than truing. Radial truing and rim centering (dishing) require more skill. I dish by repeatedly reversing the wheel on the stand, I find that easier and quicker and just as accurate as a dishing tool.
I also use a tension meter but I think a good wheel can be built without a tension meter.
I recommend that you be sure to use a good spoke wrench, one that grips the nipple all the way around. Wrenches are color coded for different sizes, you need one that fits the nipples snuggly. I use Spokey red or for larger nipples, yellow. I've never stripped the shoulders on an alloy nipple with a Spokey wrench.

Al