2/2
You don’t have to buy GW paint. Use Craft paint until the paint is holding you back. I painted my first minis with craft paint and I still use Craft paint for bases and terrain and other places where I don’t need expensive paint.
I rarely use GW paint anyway, as I like Pro Acryl from Monument hobbies better, but I’ve used Army Painter and Vallejo ALOT too.
When following a guide don’t get hung up on exact color. Pick something close and paint.