In this text, artist and teacher Sarah Hocombe aims to demonstrate how even an inexperienced beginner can achieve stunning results from the start. The text provides an introduction to the technique through a series of small-scale projects that reproduce classical fresco designs on a variety of surfaces including tiles, wood, brick and plaster. It also provides a history of fresco. Step-by-step instructions at every stage introduce a range of techniques, from basic painting, trompe-l'oeil and marbling, to advanced work using raised modelling, gilding and fine glazes. Information on mural painting and the preparation of walls and portable panels for large-scale paintings is also included.