The t-shirt trick is good. Put on a few old, dark shirts and let the beardie lie on your chest (between two shirts) while you read a book or watch tv. If he is snuggled up under a dark shirt he will feel very secure, and will also get to know your scent. Just don't make any sudden movements or loud noises as you could startle him.
Handfeeding is another great way to gain his trust.
Have him out of his enclosure for an hour or two each night (or morning) and he will quickly grow accustomed to you. If he's a bit snappy and opens his mouth (threatening to bite) just quickly pop a bit of bok choy in there! It will confuse the heck outta him hehe.
If you are patient and persistent, you'll soon have a happy friendly little beardie. Diego was pretty stubborn at first, but after about a week of using the above methods he was happily snuggling up to us on the couch
As for Phoenix, she was the friendliest, sweetest little thing right from the word go - we didn't have to do anything with her! She just loves being around us. Good luck with your beardie lilmiss and keep us updated!!!
{EDIT} Just saw your post above - you're spot on, it's a good idea to start handling when they are quite cold and sleepy and therefore less likely to put up a fight. Another tip: if he squirms to get away from you, don't put him back in his enclosure. You will just reinforce his behaviour and teach him that if he squirms, he will get his own way. They are sneaky little brats sometimes hehe.
