Real machine works a lot better, but the peanut/trimmers are better for around the ears and peyos. Scissor cut can be done, either by using your fingers to make it even or a comb, but a comb is much harder. If you're fading, always stop a little before the spot you usually fade, just so you don't cut too much. You can always cut more off; you can't put the hair back if you cut too much.
Biggest tip: it all grows back. And if it doesn't, it's not because of one bad haircut.