You can also use a [slate and stylus]
(https://ecommerce.nfb.org/asp/prodtype.asp?prodtype=132) for paper writing, or for labeling objects. I use one for all of my container labels. I really recommend buying one and some labels for this purpose, as it helps you use braille daily. (Of course if you can get a Perkins brailler it also works for this, and is an excellent faster tool, but costly.)

But honestly if you are interested in becoming a braille reader, see if you can get your school, department of rehab, etc to spring for a braille display or braille notetaker for you. Being able to access books, online content, etc readily in braille makes it much more portable and practical to use. (You can also sometimes find good ones through resale on ebay, the blind bargains classifieds, blind resale groups, etc.)

As for learning braille, the [NFB]
(https://ecommerce.nfb.org/asp/prodtype.asp?prodtype=50&ph=&keywords=&recor=&SearchFor=&PT_ID=) has a bunch of instructional books. I recommend Beginning Braille for Adults, which is free. It comes with a CD guide so you can learn to read independently. The book will teach you grade 1 and grade 2 american braille, so there are some additional things you would have to unlearn (or relearn) with UEB but not a lot. (And a lot of existing braille material out there is still grade 2.)

http://accessible.uebonline.org/ is a great resource for learning UEB. It starts with the alphabet and works you up from there.

If you can get local braille classes that will also greatly help you.

The Perkins Brailer is pretty much the only way to go if you want to write physical braille on paper, cards, or labels. The DOR purchased a brand-new one for me which is plastic and I hate it, I much prefer the older metal monsters.

Are you looking for one that brailles on paper, or an electronic one?

Most people I know use the Perkins brailler. I'm familiar with two versions of it, one made of metal and the other is plastic. From what Ive been told, the metal ones are more reliable and built like a tank, but fairly heavy as well.