I haven't been on much since Christmas, but thank you all for the comments. Regarding the symbols, I draw or trace symbols and transfer to the pony body with tissue paper and a pencil, and then paint multiple layers with a 20/0 brush. I have freehanded some of my customs, but it's much easier to mock up a design on paper and transfer it. It takes practice getting the paint thinned to where it goes on smooth but doesn't run, and keeping the lines clean, but everyone gets better with patience and practice!