How do you approach a build?

Super T said
step one, budget
step two, goals - cruiser, drag race, touring, etc
step three, build... from the ground up.

Step 2 1/2.....gather all the parts you need for the build before you tear it down.
Step 2 3/4.....figure out who is going to do the work that you aren't/can't do and get prices.
Step 4.....get a second job to pay for it all!