Classic paints & faux finishes

This book is fantastic! I hope that Annie Sloan writes an updated edition, as this is from 2000. I almost didn't buy this book because of the negative reviews- especially because they are labelled +/or voted as the most helpful reviews. However the negative reviews are from 1999 & 2000 and things have changed a lot since then. Most of the raw materials required for the various finishes are readily available, many are sold right here on Amazon (e.g., gesso, fuller's earth, etc).Each technique and required materials are described in great detail, including history, common and historical uses, large color pictures of each, step by step instructions - it really can't get much clearer than this. The author's go into painstaking detail. There are even pictures and descriptions of over 50 different brushes. They include a color directory and detailed supplier's list (not up-to-date, of course). I am by no means a professional and have only done a handful of projects, but I do not feel that these techniques are beyond my capabilities. (Not that I would start with my living room walls - maybe an old table or frame).Before reading this book, I couldn't tell you the difference between a varnish, glaze, shellac or lacquer. This book is clear, concise and very comprehensive. Whether you are a novice or an expert, this book is a fantastic resource and a "must-have." I can't wait to try out some of these techniques, like milk paint and tempura. Do not hesitate for one second, buy this book! You will love it.

Good reference book to have

Beautiful Book! Thank you!

Love it.

It's a very good book, very interesting and useful. The book arrived real fast and in a very nice condition. I always enjoy the books I buy from Amazon. Thanks very much

Sloan presents the best summary I know covering the decorative artist's tools and materials. It starts with broad look at paints, varnishes, stains, and the like, with emphasis on the materials more familiar to easel artists than to house painters. The next chapter discusses the pigments themselves - interesting, but largely of academic interest. I found the presentation of color schemes more helpful. By drawing examples from around the world, Sloan implicitly points the readers to resources describing traditions and harmonies in the use of decorative coloring.The same reference to history drives the next section. Things like milk paints and lime wash might seem antiqued, but their long history ought to suggest an equally long future for them. After that, Sloan presents more of the traditional materials, including textured gesso, powder and leaf gilding, and decoupage, followed by another discussion of materials. The interested reader might pay special attention to use of colors over metal leaf, especially for smaller objects. (Unlike other books, this pays as much attention to furniture and furnishings as it does to the walls around them.)I find this a great complement to other books. This may come up short regarding ways of layering color and glazes for walls and large surfaces. It more than makes up for that lack in its attention to materials and to vivid techniques suited to design accents and focal points. I can't recommend it as the one and only book to have for painted finishes, but I recommend it strongly as one to have beside others.-- wiredweird

Although this book might not be the choice of a first-time faux painter, it is invaluable if you want the secrets to a classy, authentic paint job. Classic Paints & Faux Finishes has unlocked the mystery of the strange paint on my 1850's ceilings and why no other paint will stick to it; has authentic alternatives for treating plaster walls without resorting to inappropriate "plastic" paints and it provides simple recipes to create beautiful historic paints that are otherwise nearly impossible to acquire. The color and pigment charts are also very helpful. This is an excellent and inspiring reference book that should join your library when you wish to preserve the integrity of the past or when you cross the line from craft to art.

This is not a beginner book. However it is perfect for the professional finisher - especially if you take an interest in historic paints and techniques. There are many excellent recepies for historic paints, including calcamine. For the serious decorative painter this book is top notch.

Lots of good, well illustrated hints and tips

super