Craft Brewing Association

 There are a number of ways of making beer at home. Not surprisingly the slowest and hardest - full mash brewing - produces the best beer! There is some consolation though in that it's also the cheapest method, especially if you're a keen DIY-er. Most people start with a kit though. As you progress to full mashing all of the equipment you acquire is still useful though, so you can start with a kit and won't need to discard anything.