I don't know of a place that will get you up to speed on DIY, but there are books about basic electronics that can be helpful. The Chime is made with a board, so it's much easier to build than a point to point project (meaning that the parts leads are soldered together directly and not to a circuit board).
I'm putting a Chime together right now. I have built a few things, and things that I have learned in the past have definately helped in building the Chime. A beginner could do it, but you would have to be very patient and very careful. As long as you're comfortable soldering, can orient the parts correctly based on the picture on the circuit board, and take your time to carefully make sure that you've put the right part in the right spot, and that your solder joints are good, you could build a Chime. You need to be able to solder, crimp, drill holes for the chassis (unless you buy it finished from Jim), and you need a few basic tools. It could be challenging, but it's definately possible.
I do think that if this was my first project, I would be in a bit over my head. Of course you would be able to ask questions here and get quick and very helpful responses if you find something confusing, which would definately make the task easier.
-Aaron.
