I'm looking to make a game, but need to get 3d character assets based on my designs. Problem is, I have no idea where to either A) find an artist to commission or B) make the models myself.

Given my needs for the project, I imagine option B is going to be the best option overall, but I don't even know where to start! I'm familiar-ish with blender and I'm sure I can learn that, but I know there are lots of resources that weren't around before as far as starting points regarding models, textures, shaders, etc. Is there a good resource? Whenever I search online, I find way too much noise and it isn't really helping.

Additionally, despite my mental image of everything, I still need 2d reference images for the models.  In other words, I'll probably have to find a 2d artist to finalize the reference images (I can't draw to save my life) and then create 3d models off of those.

This whole process is a labor of love, but I feel like I'm spinning my wheels on something that shouldn't take this long. If you can help me in any way here, it'd be greatly appreciated!

This is a totally personal question.

It depends more on what you want and can do.

You may learn to draw and make 3D models, but doing it well will take time, it's not something you learn from one week to the next.

It will always be better to have a person who is specialized to try to patch the holes yourself.

A person who dedicates himself to modeling in 3D every day will have better results in less time than what you can do, because in addition to modeling, you will have to spend time programming, designing, etc.

It is not difficult to find someone to help you for a few days or for a short game, but it is very different, if it will be a long and complex project. Most people get bored or have to spend time on other tasks.

Ideally, you should have specialized people, but depending on your project and budget, this may be impossible.

In those situations, it's time to be plan B, the contingency, do everything yourself.

I say this based on my experience, maybe you have a natural talent and could generate excellent 3D or 2D models, that's why this type of answer changes from person to person.

As someone who has asked the same question in the past I would adivise you against going full 3D asset creation, as it will suck you into a whole new world of complexity and you will see yourself deticating more on your models than on your game.

In my case I find free 3D assets with safe license online and modify them according to my needs, that's how a learned blender too. For instance, it's relatively easy to find free organic 3d models online, but very hard to find them fully animated, so I download them, and then I rig, skin and animate myself, just that took months for me to do