This work is designed as a sourcebook for home decorators. It gives information about paint effects and their application, ranging from quick, up-to-the-minute makeovers to recreating a period look in the home. The book provides recipe-style instructions and many photographs to guide the reader. Close-ups of colour swatches are also provided for the 150 recipes and their variations. The author explains how to achieve authentic period finishes, using traditonal, oil-based paints. In addition, she has developed a range of very rapid modern colour combinations using water-based products. Altogether, there are over 50 techniques for walls, wood, stone and metal described here, as well as techniques for painting on plastic and other synthetic surfaces. The book is produced in a wipe-clean format for handling in a practical, working situation. The author was responsible for a large-scale renovation programme at Knebworth House in Hertfordshire.