It sounds so much easier! The only problem is you then need a solder stencil. You somehow have to get a thin sheet of material that has a perfectly sized hole where all of your solder pads are.
Learn how to make your reusable stencils [with the Cricut] for wood signs, wall decor (like wallpaper), and more! You can use a Cricut Maker, Explore Air 2, Explore Air, or Explore for this project.