want to lessen the risk find a good club and enlist the help from a qualified instructor
Yes there have been a lucky few that have learned on their own but they are few and far between. Why risk all the hard work and time you put in building your plane on the slim chance that you will be one of the lucky few? hedge your bet and get some help. most people involved in flying clubs will bend over backwards to make sure you learn in a safe and enjoyable way