Everyone's got to start somewhere. When i make anything, i think to myself something along the lines of " Does it look like it was made by a professional?" Aim for that.
Aside from the points already mentioned, it's important that the scales are the right size for the blade. If the blade can protrude through the bottom of the scales, it's going to be dangerous. You'll also probably chip it when it falls from your severed fingers!
I'd have another go & get some practise in.