Before you do any sewing practice, draw the design over and over on paper or use a small whiteboard that can be erased. This will give you muscle and 'eye' memory. My friends laugh at me when we are out, I'm always doodling on the paper napkins!!
Use your practice pieces for small projects; zippy pouches, notebook covers, prem quilts,table mats etc. you'll find that you practice more when you feel the fabric is actually being 'used'.