I am on my third dozen and I'm an expert already!
I've got 100 4" natural barred shields due via UPS any minute. This is what I've learned so far :
1. See Rob DiStefano's video.
http://tradgang.com/noncgi/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=2;t=000120 2. Do what he does. Lighter fluid. Tape. tip glue. Skip the burning for now.
3. 3 Rivers has a great selection of feathers. I shoot 4 inch shields and they always have them in stock in both solids and barred.
4. Get your wraps at onestringer.com. Best price by far and humongous selection.
5. If you're using a Bitz or Bitz type jig, double check your nock index seating.
6. Don't mix left and right wing.
7. Feathers don't want to go in the jig. There is a tool to tame them, but I've found that if you secure the little devils with one hand you can straighten them out with the other and push them in with the other.
8. Run your thumb nail down the foot of the quill base to seat the fletching.
9. Use gel cm glue on the tips and don't use too much.
10. Try not to think too much while you're doing it.