I don't know how far you've progressed with your "Distortion project,anyway,here are a couple of distortion circuits you may be be interested in.I think it would be better for you start with a simpler circuit to gain experience & not in the least more confidence!
I would start building these on a- "Breadboard"- these small plastic experiment/prototype boards.These are easily obtainable from any electronic shop or on the net. I still start all my new projects this way to make sure it works at all or not & to further improve on it.
These two circuits are fairly easy to build & test.Do not hesitate to ask if you need any help,as I am sure there are many in this forum who i am sure will readily give you very useful advice.
Good luck!