It's funny, my wife and also my best mate have great effect with acrylics, me, nothing but trouble! (TIP: don't buy the official thinner, it;s waaaay too expensive, you can use methylated spirits! Supposedly the official thinner has an extra additive, but in practical terms, methylated spirits work fine.
I had the orange peel with acrylics, prt of problem was masking before thoroughly cured.
Artists are always their own worst critics, it will be beautiful on your bro-in-law's mantel!