you can start with:
(1) window --> uv texture editor
(2) select the model --> polygon UVs --> automatic mapping
(3) in the uv texture editor: polygons --> UV Snapshot
(4) adjust the size, Image Format and File Name --> Press: OK
(5) Open the Image File in Photoshop and paint your texture
(6) In Maya: Create a Material: For Example --> right mouse on your model --> Materials --> Assign New Material --> Blinn
(7) In the Blinn Attributes click on the chess board (black and white button) - next to "Color"
(8) In the "Create Render Node" Window that pops up: select File --> The Attribute Editor Window changes
(9) In the Attribute Editor Window select the small Folder Icon next to Image Name and choose your texture
(10) Click in the persp Window and press '6'
(11) Render your first texture
hope this was helpful and not too confusing
mfg
my english makes me nobody so fast after
mein english macht mir keiner so schnell nach