Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #629453 in Books
• Published on: 1994-03
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 176 pages

Amazon.com Review
The term "decorative" as applied to paint techniques can have a number of meanings; in this case it refers to faux finishing. This book provides excellent coverage of the subject with demonstrations, step-by-step pictures, and instructions for 27 different techniques, from antiquing to verdigris and including combing, graining, pickling, tortoiseshell, and marbling, among others. Some interesting techniques covered here are not often seen in faux finishing books: imitation bamboo, sandstone and lichen, and something called sugi, an effect resembling charred wood used to age the look of a piece.

From Booklist
What's the difference between this and Jocasta Innes' Paint Magic? First, Britisher Cavelle has produced a true encyclopedia of techniques, more to be used as a reference than as a beginners' how-to. Second, given his purview, Cavelle provides fewer step-by-step examples and projects than Innes. Of course, the now fashionable decorations from marbling to sponging are featured, but also included are more unusual finishes, such as check rolling, faux bamboo, and sugi (charred wood). Color photographs proliferate, as do easy-to-understand instructions. An excellent 31-page gallery of primarily European professional work leaves readers looking for more. Barbara Jacobs

Customer Reviews

An excellent resource for faux finish techniques.
As a decorative painter, I use this book constantly to get ideas and practice techniques. I've found the step-by-step photos and explanations extremely helpful and clearer than in some other books on this topic. Also, the specific methods used here are interesting to compare to those demonstrated in other books on faux finishing -- especially the malachite look. I appreciate the fact that the authors use generic color names rather than commercial manufacturers' names (e.g. burnt sienna instead of "dried pumpkin"). Sometimes, though, I've had to slightly adjust the colors I use to achieve the "right" effect. And I do wish it included a more comprehensive assortment of finishes and effects. (Do the authors have plans for a second volume?) But, all in all, it's a great book and easy to follow for both professional and amateur alike. I'm glad it's in my library.

I like this book
it has everything you need to know about paint. great for beginners to intermidiate.

okay
this book is okay. didn't have what i wanted exactly, but not the book's fault. focused more on very detailed, involved wood painting.