I like to use a white board to practice new designs. Don't put your wrist down as you are teaching your arm the design. Low odor markers are a MUST...unless you want to asphyxiate yourself! (ask me how I know this! HA!) I also look at pantograph sites. Often I find designs I like that I think I can freehand. I don't print them as that is copywrite infringement. Rather I try to do my own version. Happy practicing! (I use my practice pieces to make dog beds!)