As being a self taught painter, just pick that Gun up and do it!

Much like welding, any fabrication, and anything else that requires hands on, you need to develop your technique and refine it. The only way to do that is practice!
You can do it, and what’s the worse thing that can happen? Screw it up, sand it down and start over. How many times have I done that? Oh....too many to admit without embarrassment!

One piece of advice is to adhere to the p-sheet info. Don’t become a chemist and try “what your Buddy” tells you to do. Unless he works for the brand of paint you’re using and has the paycheck stub to prove it, he ain’t a chemist so stick with what is known and tested.
I LOVE painting!! Bodywork, not so much. But laying down the funk is so rewarding! Your good painting weather is close at hand up there so get to it!!

Cheers
Dave