Paul - From a new rod builder.
I am like you and have initial troubles with getting mixed weaves I started out doing a Bass Weave 4 colors and large size 40 x 87.  It was not a stellar job and them there was the color shift issue. My dark green turned almost black. That was another learning.  But back to weaving. I too got DVDs, Uptons book, and even look all over the web, youtube,etc.  They all help get the concept and methods across.  An what I've determined is that the advise Owen gave is exactly the best advice anyone will give you.  I should have started simple- one or two colors, make a copy of the left list and check off each tread as you make the single turn wrap, check for tightness and shifting, stop periodically and cross check. 

I've done 3 rods now, they all turn ok from my stand point but I want it to be perfect the first time.  People who see them say "WOW how in the world do you do that!"  But I notice it get easier with each rod and instead of taking a week for the first wrap or weave the time is coming down.  There is some truth to the saying " practice makes to perfect".  Just hang in there.  Also if your in a location near a city of rod builders try email them for advice.  There are more and more rod and or tackle shops that offer building equipment and if they do they have guys that can help and advise you.  I've find most are glad to help. Don't get frustrated.  If you doing this as a hobby the its suppose to be fun.  I gave up golf for fishing.  Still get frustrated but I still find fishing and rod building more fun.

Owen i have been trying to get a good weave since i joined probably 2-3 years. I read books for the great upton and the wizard Doc Ski but there is some thing i am doing wrong. I can be fifteen minutes into the weave and i have left list thread in the wrong places. I don't want to give up but it is getting close. Do you have ideas from an expert to help