What kind of taper rates you looking for? If you want the standard .002/" or so I would order a set from one of the suppliers.
You have a few options, you could get a nice flat board and fasten the tapers to the board, the distance apart you want your taper and then it will act as a guide for your tapers, to adjust the thickness just lay flat items such as paper down first.
What power tools do you have access to?