I've been doing this for a couple years and I've got to say, it has been pretty satisfying, quick and cheap. Depending on the yeast you use and how dedicated you are to experimentation, you can clone almost anything after less than 3 months of serious reading/tinkering/tasting.

I can't think of too many hands-on knowledge investments that have such a quick, broad return with such a low monetary cost. [I've been building a spare brewing kit from more-or-less rummage sources, just to see how cheap I can go. Half-way finished and I've literally spent only $5.]