Try to take advantage of the larger gradient colors white and black. Do not use 100% white or black, because it is not realistic. Some highlight information in your handpaint and it will look much better.) For example:
@gsAlpha7 I am glad you picked something small to start off with! This is an excellent way to start learning handpainted stuff. "I feel a lot like a kid painting while trying to paint textures, is this normal for beginners?" Yes this is completely normal! You are learning something new, it takes time to learn new things :)…