My first fixay was 52/15 (yeah I know) and I learned how to skid within the first month or two. I learned on a big patch of dirt and leaves. It's really all mental. Just think about which of your feet will be pushing down and which will be pulling up, throw your weight forward, and lock 'em up. You'll be pulling up a lot at first, but as you get used to the feel of it, your foot that's pushing down will be doing most of the work. Then learn it the other way so you have more skid patchezz!

For those concerned about tires, if you are a good customer at your LBS, ask the mechanics if they have any used tires they'd be willing to part with. If you do all your business on the internet, well, keep on keepin' on.