I found it easier to use different segments, basically breaking the handle down to managable chunks. Measure the tang onto the segment (wood, bone, leather, metal), drill it out roughly and use needle-files to file it to shape to nicely fit around the tang (at the point you want it to on the tang, because tangs often taper).
Honestly I learnt far more on my first attempt than any amount of research could have taught me. Dive in there, find a knife you like the look of and try to replicate it.
Essentials:
Drill
Needle / Swiss files
Sander (or you could you files)
and to finish, sandpaper and oil (Danish oil, linseed oil, etc)