Yes, you could try dipping you toe in self employed waters before taking the plunge completely and many people do this. It may give you a wake up call as to the amount of skills and knowledge you need, as well as highlighting any additional resources you need to make it work and generate a profit. You may find some helpful information at
Business Gateway, and they will have a branch near you to discuss your ideas.
My advice is to start out by creating a business plan. This is essential for obtaining finance if you need it, but it is also essential for your self. A sound and well researched business plan can show you if the business idea is viable. The most common mistakes people make when creating business plans are that they over estimate sales and under estimate costs, so it is important to make sure you get these elements as realistic as you can. It is my experience that a good realistic and honest business plan can help you see the next step with much more clarity. Things a business plan should include, but not be limited to:
1) Summary of your business
2) Objectives
3) Target market (needs extensive research)
4) Market Size (needs extensive research)
5) Competition Analysis (needs extensive research)
6) Business Structure, including in house or third party resources needed.
7) Unique Selling Points
8) Strengths, Weaknesses, and Threats analysis. (needs extensive research)
9) Profit and loss projections (include every cost and overhead you can think of.) and cash flow forecasts for 3 years
10) Profit and loss projections and cash flow forecasts for 3 years at 70% of projected sales (remember that I said most people over estimate their sales, and if the business cannot stand alone at 70% of projected sales it needs re-evaluating and may not be a viable business.)
Once you are happy that your business plan is complete and accurate, take an objective look at it and ask yourself: "Is this a picture of a viable business?" If your honest answer is "Yes" then you may have the skeleton on which to build your future.
Next, get someone else to evaluate your plan without bias. A good way of doing this is to approach a bank for a loan and/or apply for a grant. Your plan will then be scrutinised and some issues may arise that you hadn't thought of. You don't have to accept the loan or grant if offered, but you will have a valuable third party opinion of your business plan.
I hope this helps.