Hi!

0) Be sure to have some basic linux shell competencies

1) Learn how to compile Linux/debian binaries e.g.
apt-get source $packagename
dpkg-buildpackage -rfakeroot -b

2) Install scratchbox development environment. Easiest is the vmware image
http://maemovmware.garage.maemo.org/

3) Build some example packages within scratchbox. Make good use of maemo.org
http://maemo.org/development/
http://maemo.org/maemo_training_mate...ent/index.html