that's really not necessary just to convert to a SS. converting to fixed, one should definitely consider getting a new wheel, but for SS only, use what you have!!

it's very handy to know how to respace and redish. it's really difficult to do until you actually get some cone wrenches, washers/spacers, a spoke wrench and try it.

then you realize you can do it, and you work on it until you get it right.

which should take all of three hours. maybe.

how to diy, cheaply:

respacing the axle. the idea is this: the axle already has spacers on it. just like balancing an algebra equation, move spacers from one side to the other until you get the hub where you want it in relation to chainline. because i'm not a genius, i usually go off of trial and error until i get it right.

for a SS, don't stress on getting it to the millimeter, just get it "straight."

redishing the wheel: this is the most tedious part, but $6 for a spoke wrench and an hour or two of your time, plus the knowledge of how your wheels work is worth it.

remember that spokes pull on the rim (and the hub, too, but we're focusing on the rim, because that's what you're trying to move).

the left spokes pull the rim left, the right ones pull the rim right. so, if you're trying to move the rim to the center in relation to the frame, then loosen the ones that are pulling it "too far" and tighten the ones that aren't pulling far enough.

what i do in redishing is loosen the all the lefthand spokes a half turn, then tighten all the righthand spokes a half turn, and i repeat until i get the rim in the general area of where i want it. then i start using quarter turns, for fine adjustment. then 1/8th turns. then i true the thing using the brake pads.

make sure you loosen before you tighten.

then i ride it.