I make regular rounds of places where other players mow down beasts without skinning them and ask if I can skin the corpses (zones seeme to change from server to server). Sometimes, when I'm just on for a bit, I just follow groups around dotting and de-buffing mobs, buffing and healing players for the right to skin without leeching xp.
When I have a bunch of mats, I make the hardest items I can (requiring the least amount of mats, unless I want an upgradde for myself or for a guildie or friend or paying customer) to be sure to get skill-ups.
I also make regular visits to the AH for new patterns and usually bid on whatever I can (or buy out if reasonnably priced).
As for the coin needed, I fish a lot to subsidize my tradeskilling (you're always missing something that you'll prefer to buy fast in the AH rather than go out and farm yourself - especially items from other tradeskills). I've also made a few friends working other trades (alchemists, smiths, tailors and what not) with whom I trade raw materials for their trades against their finished products used in LW and we all come out ahead.
Also, being blessed with fantastic guild mates, as it is the case for me, will help greatly.
However, the most important if not *only* requirement is actually good, old-fashioned patience. If you're the type that's hell-bent on making 60 in two weeks, there probably isn't a single tradeskill that you'll find enjoyable.
Whatever you do, hang in there! :)
Regards,
ThisDruid ~ proud member of Jesters (Cenarius)
'Putting the Laughter back into Slaughter'