Wayne, Doing anything, the first time is the hardest. After you have tried it once, it might not get too easy, but then you have experience, and you don't make the same mistake twice (or at least try not to...) Another comment: with your nose 12 inches from your work, wiggly edges are magnified as far as you are concerned. Not to worry. Just back away 20 feet from your boat and your lettering all looks very elegant and professional. That's the view everyone else has of your boat. Oh, there are also lettering stencils available at hardware or art supply stores, which you can use for your layout. This is what I used, except for my Plimsoll marks. Those were laid out; transferred to the sides of the dinghy and then painted by hand. Have fun, that's what it's all about. Connie