Start with circles and leaves that don't have sharp points or curves on them and then gradually go up to the next level until you are comfortable with it. I'm new to hand applique and love doing it. I do the needle turn, the back basting and raw edge machine and I've done it putting the design onto pellon for layers and also reverse applique. I am so lucky to have a great teacher and we've now expanded our classes that were from the LQS to her home and it's more like a bee and she teaches us while we talk, etc. Best of both worlds; quilting and friendship
You might also talk to the LQS and see if any of thier customers do it and leave your number and see if they'd be willing to mentor you. Some people love to teach others this skill.