Howdy! Check out the Pinheadlounge.com Great place to learn and see many other peoples work. As far as the Kafka brush I have a couple but I like the Mack Bobbo better cause it's shorter. You should probably get a Mack seris 10 (blue wrap) size 00 to learn with. It does straight lines better. Kafkas are designed for the scroll stuff. I use mineral spirits to thin my paint. If you are going to clear over you MUST put hardener in it or it WILL lift!!! wash the brush in mineral spirits befor you paint! the brush comes with glue in it for shipping. wash the brush out , gently pat dry with a cloth or paper towel, then soak in oil(I use mineral oil, DO NOT use trans fluid or motor oil as it will eat the brush) be sure to work the oil into the ferrul. now rinse it lightly in spirits again and start painting ! the glass idea is a great way to practice. Also check out the Wizzards "Pinstripe Basics" video. It's great! If you have any other questions or just want to share frustration, my email is hotrodmonk55@gmail.com Remember it supposed to be FUN !!!! Chris (Monk) Depuy