CATEGORY

Paint is often seen as the magic wand we can wave over rooms to change them into something completely new. To a great extent this is true: with a little bit of practice and a limited investment, just about anyone can manage startling paint-induced room transformations. With exquisite photos and expert advice, Better Homes and Gardens' Paint Ideas & Decorating Techniques explores both the aesthetic considerations behind choosing the right paint treatment and the specific how-tos of achieving them. Dozens of photos showcase a wide array of living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens, while extensive captions analyze the paint effects in each one, from bold solids to subtle textures, stripes to plaids. The techniques explained are the usual ones: ragging, combing, sponging, faux leather and suede, checkerboard and diamond patterns.

The success of these rooms often depends as much on the well-chosen furnishings and accessories as on the paint treatments, and these considerations are addressed here in only the broadest terms. Would-be decorators seeking this type of specific advice had best look elsewhere, but anyone hunting for easy, attractive paint solutions shown in good-looking room settings will find plenty of ideas in these pages. --Amy Handy