O.K. -- just tried applying my first skin to the pearl. Overall -- not bad thanks (in large part) to the advice here. My only regret is that I had a tendency to "overwork" the skin while applying it. Next time I'll be more patient. When it's wet, it slides very easily and the bubbles slide out. As the skin begins to adhere, it's not a good idea to push hard on it to move bubbles or reposition. Instead, gently lift an edge and (if it's still wet) it will slide around quite a bit again.

SO the best approach is to patiently and gently work the water and air from under the skin while being careful to maintain the proper position. During that time, don't worry about the edges since those are easily tacked down later if necessary.

The skin on my pearl has only dried and it looks pretty good on all the parts except for the one covering the display -- that's where I pushed hard on it and ended up with some air bubbles and an "irregular" looking surface in some areas. It's not hideous but it's not perfect either. We'll see how it looks tomorrow. Worst case I'll order another skin and just replace the one on the display.