Until the Delia Smith of the paint world first published Paint Magic in 1981, special paint effects were confined to interior designers and their wealthy clients. Paint expert Jocasta Innes made these available to everybody, creating a DIY revolution. This updated version of what has become a classic interiors tome has been revised to include new developments, techniques and looks.More like a chunky bible, this is best used as a directory to every aspect of painting in the home. Absolutely nothing is left out of the comprehensive subject matter: walls, woodwork, floors, furniture, as well as all the fundamentals (definitions and explanations of different paints and tools) and even recommended suppliers.
This is a no-nonsense, text-heavy approach, and while the introductory chapter on changes (such as new legislation on toxic paints, and trends such as textures) is fascinating, you'd have to be a paint geek to wade through all of this. The thorough use of detail make this a useful standby for complete beginners, without alienating the paintaholic moving onto craquelure, lacquering and decoupage.
Since the original book predates minimalism, style junkies won't be impressed, and while about half the photography has been updated, visuals are neither particularly inspirational nor aspirational.--Lorna V
