Decorative Painters Guide to Fruits and Flowers (Watson-Guptill Crafts) - Softcover

"There are as many ways to paint a subject using decorative painting techniques as there are decorative painters," says expert painter and masterful teacher Andy Jones. Though it may take a while to reach a high degree of proficiency, the systematic nature of the form means that even beginners can produce competent results. Yet there is still much room for creativity: following step-by-step instructions does not have to produce a formulaic outcome; quite to the contrary, as this adroitly presented guide makes clear. Once you learn the basics and practice the exercises, you'll be well equipped not only to do justice to the lovely projects, but also to design your own. Jones's approach is very thorough; he offers solid information (for both acrylics and oils) on all aspects of equipment, preparations, and basic techniques, then presents 13 projects in detail. He bedecks crockery, a cutting board, and a serving tray with luscious fruits, and strews beautiful flowers over boxes, lampshades, and frames. His results are gorgeous, and best of all, yours can be, too. --Amy Handy