It would be good if you had somebody nearby, so travel expenses wouldn't be an issue. Having somebody nearby would also be nice to have as an ally of sorts. While in NM, Wes Hunter & Myself not only helped one another out with projects & such, we also split a lot of material costs. It wasn't uncommon for one of us to need a certain something & the other had it to give, such as a piece of amboyna burl, some delrin joint protectors, a table saw blade, etc. I don't off hand know any makers in Kansas City, but i'm sure somebody is there or near. Otherwise, reach out to some makers who interest you & ask. I have no idea what kind of reception you'll get or what it might cost, but I wouldn't think anybody will be rude or off putting. I do know that it's not uncommon, although I have never seen it mentioned on here. Lots of the older makers learned exactly that way from other makers. Bludworth used to sell machinery to makers, then come set up their shop & teach them basic cue making. He's he helped a lot of makers, but is now retired.