Purchase a sign language dictionary. A sign language dictionary can act as a handy reference. There are free dictionaries online, but if you purchase a book, you can take it with you wherever you go, allowing you to fully express yourself in signing situations where you may have forgotten a sign.
Use videos to watch sign language in action. Books can teach you the basics, but they can't fully describe the movement. It's helpful to watch someone actually performing the signs. You can find online videos to teach you signing or you may be able to borrow a DVD from your local library.
Hire a tutor to come to your home. One-on-one tutoring can really help you advance your skills. Your tutor can teach you new signs, give you homework to practice over the week and help you develop conversational skills.
Practice signing simple sentences. Signing single words is easy, but combining words into a sentence can be a lot more complicated. It takes practice for your signed sentences to look fluid and effortless. Spend a bit of time each day signing so that your ability improves.
Learn fingerspelling. When you don't know the sign for a word, it's helpful if you are able to spell it. Make sure that you learn the signing alphabet so that you can easily spell out a word that you don't know.
Find a study partner to do sign language chat online. One of the best ways to learn how to do something is to actively do it. This presents a challenge if you don't know anyone else that signs. Connect with others online to help you practice signing. You can set up a video chat with a deaf person, a tutor or just another person who's interested in signing.