Lower the pitcher while steaming to the top of the milk in the pitcher until you hear that paper tearing/squeaking/screeching sound (depends on the milk). Then put the pitcher down after aerating and adjust the angle of the steaming wand until it starts swirling the milk in a sort of whirlpool movement (hard to explain over text).

Lattes are usually 1-4 seconds of aerating before resting the pitcher.
Cappuccinos are 4-8 seconds.
Flat whites are the same as lattes I believe, just pour nice and slow to preserve the crema from the espresso. Keep the pitcher straight while you pour so the milk foam on top gathers in just a dot.

After you sanitize the wand, groom the milk. Start by tapping the pitcher on the counter to dissipate the bubbles at the top. Then, swirl the milk around a few times to further dissipate any bubbles. When the milk looks like wet, glossy paint, you are done!

My flat whites look like lattes and my lattes look like confusion. Idk if it’s me holding the pitcher incorrectly or if I’m not aerating for long enough, but I’m tired🫶🏽✨

Important question: do you have the maestrena 1s or 2s?