I was reluctant to learn crimping because it "ruins the cards"? Man I can't believe how stupid I was.
Haha yeah same here, crimping has made my life so much easier!
Side note:
With that in mind, I do practice the "proper" methods that are used when crimping is not, simply because, well, I like sleight of hand? Crimping is great but I always try to master the methods that can be used instead because they are invaluable skills to my arsenal.
(I'm talking about crimping in a table false shuffle context by the way)
Anyway, that got off-topic.
I do also wish I had learnt general magic theory earlier, It has completely changed the way I perform, the way I structure my magic, and the way I see magic. (Message me if you want me to send you my favourite resource on learning magic theory

)