Layers - Transparency for Background .png Flyer

Hi... I'm not a graphics professional but for my job I need to create a one page handout for a free class I've created. I'd like to import a free .png from Pixabay (scissors, thread spools, etc.) and then change the Transparency (Opaqueness) to approximately 41% so the figures in that .png appear faded so they don't overshadow plain text I'll write in a Text Box for this one page 8.5 x 11 handout. My goal is to also insert a photo (love Pixabay! - a close up of a sewing machine needle) which ideally stands out (like the text I'll input in a text box). Affinity Publisher offers impressive tools I'd like to learn to use (get better using) but after watching some YT videos there are gaps in between what all the steps are in creating something like I'm alluding to and how that hadnout should look as the end design. Anyone recall the comic version of how to draw a horse where the 1st 3 frames are curved lines and the last box is an intricately drawn horse? I learn best with screenshots but few seem to take the time necessary for that. I hope I've described this so the goal(s) is)are understandable? Thank you so much!