Yes. It's not hard, just time consuming. However, it's also the only way to know they're built right. For special tools I use only:
https://www.bikehubstore.com/Unior-N...p/unior-nw.htm
https://www.bikehubstore.com/product-p/mulfing.htm
https://www.amazon.com/Park-Tool-Spo...dp/B000OZDIGY/
I put anti-seize on the spoke threads and only use brass nipples. If I'm using round spokes, I put a bit of tape near their outer ends right after the nipples have been started, so that I can make sure there's no wind-up as I tighten the nipples.
The TM-1 is expensive, but very durable and accurate. Maybe some don't need it for their 100th wheel but for sure for the first. I don't use a dishing tool or a building stand. Your bike dropouts are plenty good enough, though you need a work stand to put the bike in, should have one anyway by now. To dish the rear, you just flip the wheel. It'll come out close to start with if you get the correct spoke lengths.