So apparently, texture painting is wayyy easier to set up than I thought I'd be, and it made this character like actually look like her reference image instead of just being a character inspired by the design
The references:
Overall, I definitely still have stuff I need to improve on in later projects. But I think for my first fully handmade, unwrapped, and textured model, she turned out awesome!!
Maybe if I learn more about HDRIs, I can make my own lighting too! Idk skies the limit at this point. I feel unstoppable in my creative pursuits!