I did take a hands-on class, which was very helpful. The instructor watched me and made just a couple of suggestions. Made a big difference. The other thing is, you mentioned that you've been practicing. What I found was there was one all over design (stippling) that seemed to come very naturally to me. I concentrated on that one. If you find one that seems easier, use that one. Other than the class which got me started, the rest was trial and error.