Caution: Read the paint book first

Remember, you’ve got that long list of projects you promised yourself you’d get to this summer. If your to-do (or honey-do) list includes experimenting with a decorative painting technique, or simply re-painting a room, “The Complete Book of Paint: 70 Techniques, Finishes and Designs for Your Home,” is an excellent resource.

The 224-page book is broken into four parts. Part One covers the basics: different types of paint, surface preparation, brushes and color inspiration. Part Two illustrates simple finishes with instructions for the easier decorative paint techniques like color washing, sponging and crackling. Part three details decorative designs and more elaborate finishing techniques such as faux graining, stripes and panels.

The last section features specific paint projects for furniture and walls with reproducible templates.

So, if an hour or two of watching home re-dos on television fires you up and inspires you to jump into a paint project, this book might be the first tool you should reach for.