While it is popularly called latte “art,” lead barista of Tout Suite, James Duncan, refers to the whimsical designs that ornament our coffee drinks as more of a form or technique rather than an art.

Duncan admits he thinks latte art is rather silly, but that it is the last stamp of approval for a barista, just as a chef finishes off his or her dish with beautiful plating.

Latte art should begin with pulling a good espresso shot and frothing milk so it is the right temperature and texture. The espresso shot should have a creamy brown consistency, and the milk should have the right amount of microfoam, which is a foam of air in the milk. Simply, latte art should begin with a really good latte, and this takes practice.

Pouring latte art also takes practice. Pay attention to your movement, angles and speed of pour — this is what it’s all about. There are some guidelines you could follow — like start pouring the milk in the center of the cup until it is about 3/4 full — but perfecting a technique takes practice, and you’ll just need to feel it out. Start with watching the video below and, perhaps, Google a few more. Buy a lot of milk, because you’re going to torch it, take it from Duncan.