My first suggestion is to read the stickies, especially the part on metallurgy.
1095 isn't normally called a "spring steel". It is a high carbon steel ( and, yes, it is sometimes used for springs).
Clay coating is done for attaining a hamon. 1095 will work for that, but the process isn't one for an inexperienced maker.
ATF isn't a good quenchant, and isn't any good for 1095 at all. 1095 requires that fastest oil quenchants, like Parks #50. Brine will work, but the failure rate is high ( for an inexperienced maker on a long blade, figure 99.9%). You will need about 3-5 gallons of Parks #50 to quench a 20" long blade of 1095. Canola oil will work with normal size 1095 blades, but on a big blade like your project, may not be fast enough.
Added as a comment - 0.195" is a really thick blade. A Musso bowie is about the only blade that meets your needs. You could do a short sword or wakizashi, but you will need to add a lot of distal taper and file a lot of bevel away.
First step is to get the right oil.
