Slagcoin's website has an enormous amount of information about custom joysticks, how to decorate your
case, and how to hack a game pad PCB. This will be a great resource for putting your first arcade
stick together. Also, if you're looking to build your own arcade stick, there is wealth of information
great for a first time builder.
SRK is a great site to meet other gamers and get tips on fighting games. Their Tech
Talk forum is filled with many informative guides and tutorials that may assist you in putting together or
building your first arcade stick.