I went through quite a few practice sandwiches before I made a large Scrappy throw size top just for the purpose of learning how to maneuver an actual top on my DSM. I mixed every possible technique on that quilt and my confidence grew. Some things ended up to be so much easier than they appear....for example feathers. Bottom line is everyone starts at zero and with practice everyone improves. You will likely have tension issues and other technical problems along the way. This forum is a great resource, ask for help and you will find loads of helpful advice.