I started my own clan, along with Rept, with a bare minimum of clan experience. It ran for 8 months. It can certainly be done, so don't get discouraged by those who tell you otherwise.
Here is what I think makes the difference:
1. You must have a communication system that allows both your members and other clans to communicate.
Looks like you have the IRC covered in your other thread, which is a good sign.
2. You must scrim often.
3. You have to create some social opportunities.
4. I strongly suggest voice recon. It is easier to build social ties and for folks who are not fast typers to recon in games. It is not necessary but it is helpful.
5. You have to be tenacious. Looks like you have that too. Now just don't let it die. We had only three players for a while. But it grew because we kept on going.
Good luck in your clan.