So how totally frustrating can working with SMD components be?

If you have not worked worked with SMD before, this can be nothing short of enfuriating.  The real issue here is that apart from requiring a really good magnifying glass and nerves of steel.  The accurate placement of the components is absolutely paramount and so is ensuring that you deposit just the right amount of paste on the board before placing the component (that's if you decide to use solder paste instead solder wire).  As you will see, there are many ways to achieve results but good results can only be acieved with great care and attention.

While some people prefer to work with SMD components in the time honored way that TTH (through the hole) components are treated, I think that with SMD parts one should use the methods preferred by those who do this often (and successfully).

For more advice on attaining good results when soldering components try :

• The SMD Soldering Guide by Infidigm
• This interesting video from the curious inventor
• Soldering circuit board components
• SMD Soldering guide
• Using a toaster oven for SMD work

Tools:
Here are some suggestions for the workshop

• A good soldering station
• Solder that doesn't turn you into the mad hatter.
• A work holder
• Something to see with
• Tip cleaning stuff
• Solder wick, Solder sucker