I would highly suggest that you start out "re-cutting" a few old stocks that have checkering that is worn out. This gets you actually cutting without having to worry about layout. I will be more than happy to help you out with any questions you might have. I have probably checkered in excess of 75 stocks. I would prefer that you give me a call at a time we can agree on, I just don't have time to type an entire book about it on this forum, sorry.
Don't take this wrong, I don't even know you. I understand that many people, young folks especially just cannot bring themselves to pick up a phone and/or otherwise talk to someone and they very much prefer "texting" or otherwise communicating via words typed on a "device". Again, I just don't have time to sit here and write several chapters when I can really answer and solve it better live and in person. If interested, shoot me a pm and we can set up a time when you can call me.