Unless you take it on as a hobby like I have then you are absolutely correct it is cheaper to buy and a whole lot less hassle. When I started making I was doing it for 4 people. Now 20 molds later I am the only one who still fishes. But you reach a point where break even is quick after many years. For example, I got a new mold in last week. I paid $36 for it and have already made $300 worth of jigs for my neighbor and myself.