regardless of the "tool" you choose, you need to practice-practice-practice

and then practice some more.

i've used and still use all three methods mentioned (touchpad, mouse, wacom tablet) and i have to say each serves a unique purpose. for quick-and-dirty stuff i use the mouse (i try not to draw with the touchpad too much...) but if it's going to be a big project or got a lot of detail i use the tablet.

you adapt, remember they're only tools, it's "you" that makes it art.

:)
retrocity