If the gear is where the plans say:

Take-offs. Apply up elevator as you advance the throttle. Many pilots (me included) hold up elevator during the taxi. This is necessary and normal on a taildragger. During take-off, as the plane starts rolling (still holding up-elevator) let it speed up a little, then start removing the up elevator. The tail will lift, but it shouldn't nose over. If it does, wait a little longer on the next take off before removing the up.

Landing: Try for a three-pointer, at least for now. This means the plane will right at stall speed when it touches. As it touches - apply up. If it flies away, you're too fast. Wait longer next time.

Good luck