The New Paint Magic

Rating:
Summary: Did not live up to my expectations
Review: Having heard so much about Jocasta Innes, I was dying to get my hands on this book but when it finally arrived, I felt let down. I had expected step by step photographs for each technique (or at least a lot of photos) with step by step detailed instructions as well as the secrets to getting a professional looking finish. Close up shots of the various finishes are also few. I also did not like the fact that the book is very text book like.

However she does cover a lot of techniques; from the usual colourwashing,ragging and sponging to things like faux fresco, rubbing, staining, vinegar painting etc.

J.Innes also offers some advice on choosing colors(although a separate chapter on colour e.g. the different colours, colour recipes etc. would have been a nice addition), decorating tips and provides some nice photos of whole rooms that give you a better idea of what the finish would look like.

"The New Paint Magic" is a disappointment compared to Kevin McCloud's "The Complete Book of Paint and Decorating Techniques". McCloud provides detailed instruction on each technique, outlining the pitfalls as well as lots of beautiful photographs with colour recipes for each finish. A good buy.

I certainly would not recommend "The New Paint Magic" to the beginner.

Rating:
Summary: Short on illustrations...but loads of info
Review: Like the other reviewer, I was hoping for superb instructions from this master of faux finishing...but what I did find was loads of text providing helping tips for many finishes, use of tools, colors and products. My most valued section was the Fundamentals. Here, Innes discusses finishes and stains, how to use them, what can go wrong, advantages and disadvantages. Still a valued book to my decorating library.

Rating:
Summary: Good info...terminology may be confusing
Review: This was my first decorative painting book. I enjoyed it but found that the British terminology could occasionally (not frequently) trip me up Once you understand that "emulsion" is really latex paint you will find the information in this book very helpful. Jocasta Innes is one artist who catapulted decorative painting into the public spotlight and this book contains oodles of examples from basic sponging to trompe l'oeil techniques. I followed her technique for colorwashing in my livingroom and am very pleased with the results. I do recommend this book.

Rating:
Summary: Good info...terminology may be confusing
Review: This was my first decorative painting book. I enjoyed it but found that the British terminology could occasionally (not frequently) trip me up Once you understand that "emulsion" is really latex paint you will find the information in this book very helpful. Jocasta Innes is one artist who catapulted decorative painting into the public spotlight and this book contains oodles of examples from basic sponging to trompe l'oeil techniques. I followed her technique for colorwashing in my livingroom and am very pleased with the results. I do recommend this book.