[bladeborn]

Some very interesting points have been raised here, both positive and negative. Personally I am all for someone using techniques that suit them, no matter where they are from. I have been praticing with swords since I was 10 (15 years) and still have very very much to learn. I have practiced both Chinese and Japanese sword styles as well as fencing and when sparring, I tend to use different parts from each when the situation arises.
I don't think there is anything wrong with trying to work your way through it yourself although it will take longer to acheive positive results. In my opinion having many different sparring partners with different levels of sword experience is the key to becoming a well rounded swordsman. These are the people who can help you to find out what works and what doesn't.
Finding teachers (especially good ones) can be very difficult and I wish you luck finding some, keep it up if it is what you want to do...