Hey Dude, I understand what you are going through. I too am trying the same thing but have desided to do an all custom bait shop. I have become very good a making swimbaits and I have also found that you don't need as many joints. Be patient and look at how your weighting the baits. Not the rate of fall, but how the bait falls. If you need more info shoot me an e-mail and I give you more info.
Hope this Helps
Monsterfish
P.s. Stick to wood it makes a better impression and your recycling.