Rapier, I do understand. Misery enjoys company. I had a real gentleman teach me a lot of things about checkering. He died this year; his name was Dennis Richards. He did a stock a day and I thought that was unbelieveable. If the pattern isn't too involved, I now can just about finish a stock in one day. A Winchester Model 12 factory 12b pattern takes me about 3 days and a bottle of good single malt scotch for a reward when I finish.
All kidding aside, take a few take-off stocks and practice on them. It isn't impossible if you have patience and a personality where you hate to admit defeat. There is a real sense of accomplishment when you look at a rifle or shotgun that is nicely stocked and checkered and know you are responsible.
Good scratching!
