For example, some weeks back I learned the basics of making a ‘sugar-etch’. However, the first attempts did not produce very acceptable results. The important thing here is repetition, applying the technique time and again, and at the same time know how to learn from the mistakes. And then continue trying each time again.
Complicating factor is that I work in two different graphic workshops, in Rotterdam and Leiden. In Rotterdam they use copper sulphate for etching, and in Leiden nitric acid. Copper sulphate is a far less aggressive acid (well, in fact it is not even an acid but a salt!) and it works considerably slower and in a more delicate manner. So I need to adapt my technique to these different conditions.
Conclusion, in art there is no such thing as failure, and setbacks are just meant to learn.