Tuning how did you get started?

[mantas]

I do not know if this has been covered, but im sure there are plenty of guys on zilvia that have tuned their own cars. Im not talking about the pros just the average Joe who acquired enough knowledge over the years and made the leap into tuning his or a friends car. So how did you know it was time or why did you end up tuning your own car versus taking it to a shop. I feel as if i have enough knowledge to start but not quite sure i want to learn the hard way by overlooking some critical part and destroying my engine. Ive met quite a few people (amateurs like myself) that tuned their own cars successfully. So i just want some input into whats the best way to start etc. I have a nistune board and i understand the ins and outs just not sure if i want to make the leap lol. The primary reason as to why i want to do this myself - i understand a shop will not be able to get me to a perfect tune in a matter of a few days. Yes i might get a bitching tune but often times you need some serious time to perfect the maps and account for temperature changes etc. and as a side note - ill have a friend do my initial tune (starting with base maps) then i want to be able to workout any kinks if there are any. If anyone has any pointers id really appreciate it, and if you want to just flame me go right ahead no fucks will be given. Thanks in advance.