It CAN be done with out the gas, but it SUCKS!! Plus, you mentioned that you don't know much about it, that equals trouble. As others have said, get a gas setup. The welds will be nicer and EASIER!! IF you have the access to a bigger (better) machine, try to use it OR have someone more experienced to do it for you, you'll save time, money and headaches in the long run. I've been welding for alot of years...both as a hobby and professionally...Good luck!