Believing that wonderful paint effects need not entail the many complications of oil-based materials, acclaimed painted-finishes expert Debbie Travis has developed easy step-by-step methods for terrific-looking treatments, all achieved with water-based supplies. With large, beautiful photos, clear instructions, and well-chosen colors, she demonstrates 35 different finishes for walls and floors (textured, patterned, and stone types) and for furniture, trim, and accessories (antique and specialty, metallic, and stenciling methods), plus four "master techniques" (colorwashing, ragging, sponging, and dragging). Travis also gives careful attention to getting started, which she believes intimidates people even more than learning the actual techniques. She explains how to find inspiration, choose a style appropriate to your own tastes, and select colors. Even the most timid of amateur decorators should be able to handle most of the techniques presented in Debbie Travis's Painted House.
"This book is the guide I wish I'd had when I first started decorative painting--with lots of pictures to inspire you, and clear step-by-step instructions to guide you through each painted finish. . .The rooms I've selected demonstrate beautifully how simple paint effects can transform plain walls, floors, and furniture. . .I honestly believe that once you learn the basic rules for making a glaze and begin to manipulate and play with paint all the finishes are easy--and very rewarding."
--from the Preface by Debbie Travis