Rating: 
Summary: Primo!
Review: A bit intimidating for the amateur, but really can be accomplished with practice. This book provides excellent instructions for many marbles, woods, semi-precious stones, some trompe l'oeil, stenciling and other lovely faux finishes . A wonderful addition to my shelf.
Rating:
Summary: This is the only book you will need to learn faux finishes
Review: After looking through well over a dozen different and popular books on fauz painting/faux finishes this was the only one that was worth purchasing. It is the most complete guide that anyone could find in my opinion. Pierre covers just about every finish imagineable (glazing, crackle, colorwash, patina, sponging on and off, several faux marbling and wood finish techniques, as well as many others). As each finish is covered there is always a complete list of materials, step by step instructions, and pictures of those steps as well as a finished product to help you guide your way. The book also shows finished rooms that are breath takingly beautiful and that fully illustrate the possibilities that lie before you. Additionally, there is information in regards to taking classes with Pierre Finkelstein in New York City as well as the ability to order the supplies through the Pierre Finkelstein Institute (though it is unnecessary since the supplies can be purchased through most art supply stores). In summary this book is just so wonderfully comprehenive and such a great asset that I would recommend it to anyone, beginner or advanced.
Rating:
Summary: This is the only book you will need to learn faux finishes
Review: After looking through well over a dozen different and popular books on fauz painting/faux finishes this was the only one that was worth purchasing. It is the most complete guide that anyone could find in my opinion. Pierre covers just about every finish imagineable (glazing, crackle, colorwash, patina, sponging on and off, several faux marbling and wood finish techniques, as well as many others). As each finish is covered there is always a complete list of materials, step by step instructions, and pictures of those steps as well as a finished product to help you guide your way. The book also shows finished rooms that are breath takingly beautiful and that fully illustrate the possibilities that lie before you. Additionally, there is information in regards to taking classes with Pierre Finkelstein in New York City as well as the ability to order the supplies through the Pierre Finkelstein Institute (though it is unnecessary since the supplies can be purchased through most art supply stores). In summary this book is just so wonderfully comprehenive and such a great asset that I would recommend it to anyone, beginner or advanced.
Rating:
Summary: My best buy ever in faux finishes books
Review: Fantastic pictures, wide range of very well-explained step-by-step techniques (marbles, woods, stencil, grisaille, etc). What I loved most (as a self-taught beginner): 1) The "techniques exercises" at the beginning of the marble/wood chapters, which allow you to gain confidence before you start following the step-by-step instructions and, most important thing, prevent you from creating "horrible looking" marbles or woods, 2) the discovery of the frisket adhesive film for the "pietre dure", 3) the chapter of materials and how you should take care of them (the author provides very clear and detailed information on this) and 4) the veining and line drawings at the end of the book, to be used as reference material.
Rating:
Summary: My best buy ever in faux finishes books
Review: Fantastic pictures, wide range of very well-explained step-by-step techniques (marbles, woods, stencil, grisaille, etc). What I loved most (as a self-taught beginner): 1) The "techniques exercises" at the beginning of the marble/wood chapters, which allow you to gain confidence before you start following the step-by-step instructions and, most important thing, prevent you from creating "horrible looking" marbles or woods, 2) the discovery of the frisket adhesive film for the "pietre dure", 3) the chapter of materials and how you should take care of them (the author provides very clear and detailed information on this) and 4) the veining and line drawings at the end of the book, to be used as reference material.
Rating:
Summary: This book is fantastic!
Review: Having purchased and used most faux finishing books available this one is one of the best for marbles and woodgrains. Great pictures and clear instructions. A multitude of marbles and woodgrains to choose from. If you are looking for "recipes" and a book with a large selection of different marbles this is the one. A highlight worth mentioning and a trouble spot for painters new to marbling is veining and the line drawings in the back are a great reference tool. Included are the more unusual finshes from stones to patinas and organics, you won't find the usual sponging and ragging here. This book is a must for anyone interested in the art of faux finishing.
Rating:
Summary: Useful and numerous illustrations
Review: I don't have anything personal against this book.I have dabbled in faux finishes and wanted more ideas on how to do different techniques and this book was too technical for me. It was more to do with making your own glazes and customizing your paints and info on the many utensils etc. I needed something more basic.I just want to be able to go to the store buy my own premade glaze and paint colors and then do a finish.
Rating: 
Summary: The Art of Fauz
Review: I don't have anything personal against this book.I have dabbled in faux finishes and wanted more ideas on how to do different techniques and this book was too technical for me. It was more to do with making your own glazes and customizing your paints and info on the many utensils etc. I needed something more basic.I just want to be able to go to the store buy my own premade glaze and paint colors and then do a finish.
Rating:
Summary: By far the Best.
Review: I've been searching for some time for a good book of Faux finishes. I've looked at and bought plenty. This book is the best in its' class. Well written, well illustrated, and inspiring. Well done Pierre.
Rating:
Summary: Fantastic How-To for all - beginners to expert
Review: If you are interested in a serious, professional faux effect, this is the place to start (and finish).
Finkelstein lays a foundation (history of faux), provides the building blocks (tools, recipes, and techniques), and assembly instructions (detailed, well illustrated examples of each step). If you take the time to practice the techniques and follow the instructions, you can do marvelous work regardless of your experience level. I had never done wood graining, and I achieved an effect virtually indistinguishable from real mahogany on my first project. I originally borrowed a copy for a specific project (wood graining a doorway) and had to buy the book for future projects and reference.
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