I steam milk for latte's quite a bit. Tip carafe so wand tip is at the side just under the surface of the milk, with the stem against the spout. Engage steam just enough to you hear a tearing sound. Gradually lower the carafe to maintain the tearing sound for 17 seconds,(the sound changes) then immerse the tip until the carafe is getting too hot to touch. Then a tap on the counter, and a couple swirls to break up bigger bubbles.