The cheapest supplier I have found is Hook & Hackle ( hookhack.com ). They are always running sales. As far as equipment, you don't really need much. I built a stand for four piece rods that was little more than two upright boards with 4 notches nailed to a base board. I had a fly tying bobbin for the thread and a book as a tensioner. I've built three rods on it. Here is the one I just finished for Prowler 13.
The kit cost $60 from Hook & Hackle, without glues, which I already had. They have some other kits for better rods, but a lot are on sale.
Other good suppliers are Customtackle.com and Mudhole.com. Betts Tackle in Largo also has good stuff.