Heh, "cheap and good" is a bit of an oxymoron with lasers. If you want a "good" laser, you're going to have to shell out some cash. However, there are some decent lasers you could complete for around $20, assuming you have a few parts on hand.
Considering that you have never soldered before, I would highly recommend getting some practice before you even attempt to build a laser. Search the forums/google for "how to solder" and you will find plenty of information to guide you.
As for a laser to build, did you read my post here:
http://laserpointerforums.com/f50/red-laser-build-47266.html#post640306 ? I listed the parts you will need for a functional laser. If you need any more information, try searching for some tutorials on the forums. There is a lot of information out there to be found!
If after reading and searching you still can't find an answer to your questions. You can then start a new thread with your questions which other members can then answer.