Synopses & Reviews
This new book will improve upon its predecessors by doing the following: Remove information that's of little interest to readers, such as repairing mortar surfaces and painting vinyl floors and laminate countertops. Edit the discussion of tools and materials to include only the best, most efficient, and most versatile--a much less intimidating and more accessible approach, especially in a tight economy. Condense or eliminate theoretical information, such as that about paint chemistry, which doesn't help readers make practical decisions. Recast color theory as answers to simple, how-to questions such as how to decide on a color, where to place color in a room, and how to make sure the color you choose looks the way you want it to when it's applied and the room is furnished. Present the single most effective technique for accomplishing a high-quality result, rather than several options. Add more sidebars, nuggets, and tips. Readers rave about these elements that address technical questions and solve problems and that relate the lessons Brian has learned. Present a unified approach to decorating that emphasizes how paint, faux finishes, and wallcoverings can work together to achieve a desired effect--something the previous books couldn't do. Present the latest developments in tools, paint, clean-up materials, and techniques. Present green alternatives to toxic, hazardous, and environmentally harmful materials whenever possible. Address current tastes, style preferences, economic realities, and decorating challenges. Answer questions and address points that audiences have brought up in response to the previous three books.
Synopsis
The best of The Wall Wizard
Painting is an inexpensive yet impactful way to redecorate a home. But in a down economy, most homeowners can't afford to hire a pro to do the dirty work. This book represents the best of The Wall Wizard's previous books, Painting Secrets, Faux Finish Secrets, and Wallcovering Secrets. Readers will get helpful, economically mindful tips, advice, and guidance on how to use paint, faux finishes, and wallcoverings that accomplish high-quality, professional-looking results.
- Focuses on painting with smaller sections on faux finishes and wallcoverings (including both how to apply and remove them)
- Sidebars and tips address technical questions
- Covers green alternatives to toxic, hazardous, and environmentally harmful products
With his personal, upbeat, first-person approach, bestselling author Brian Santos shows readers clearly and succinctly how to roll up their sleeves and accent any room of the house.
Synopsis
Learn Painting and Wallpapering Secrets from the Wall WizardWant an affordable, achievable way to spruce up any room in your house?
Now you can learn to master the most common decorating projects–painting and wallpapering! Discover the time-tested tips, tricks, and techniques for applying paint, faux finishes, and wallpaper that will give you professional-looking results. As an industry expert, Brian Santos, The Wall Wizard, guides you through every step of the process, providing the "why" behind the "how to" so you can make better choices with:
With his engaging, personal approach, Brian shows you how to save time and money—and bring big style to your home.
Synopsis
The best of The Wall Wizard
Painting is an inexpensive yet impactful way to redecorate a home. But in a down economy, most homeowners can't afford to hire a pro to do the dirty work. This book represents the best of The Wall Wizard's previous books, Painting Secrets, Faux Finish Secrets, and Wallcovering Secrets. Readers will get helpful, economically mindful tips, advice, and guidance on how to use paint, faux finishes, and wallcoverings that accomplish high-quality, professional-looking results.
- Focuses on painting with smaller sections on faux finishes and wallcoverings (including both how to apply and remove them)
- Sidebars and tips address technical questions
- Covers green alternatives to toxic, hazardous, and environmentally harmful products
With his personal, upbeat, first-person approach, bestselling author Brian Santos shows readers clearly and succinctly how to roll up their sleeves and accent any room of the house.
About the Author
For over twenty-five years, Brian Santos, The Wall Wizard, has toured home and garden shows across the nation presenting the "Wizard's Workshop." He has educated and empowered homeowners with insights for successfully completing decorating projects. A fourth generation decorating contractor, he has shared his expertise on numerous local and national TV shows for ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, HGTV, DIY Network, and Lifetime Television.
Table of Contents
Meet the Wizard.
Chapter 1: Color.
Color Basics.
Color Variations.
Color Combinations.
Color and Light.
Decorating Pyramid.
Picking a Wall Color.
Controlling Space with Color.
Chapter 2: Tools.
Solvents.
Cleaning Tools.
Painting Tools.
Basic Wallpapering Tools.
Wallpapering: Task-Grouped Tools.
Tools: Good and Bad.
Tips, Tricks, Tools, and More . . . .
Chapter 3: Preparation.
Ready the Room.
Stripping (Wallpaper, That Is!)
Cleaning the Walls.
Tackling Tough Stains.
Wood Work.
Repairing Drywall Imperfections.
Patching Small Holes.
Repairing Large Holes.
Mudding Textured Walls.
Removing Ceiling Texture.
Overlaying a Textured Ceiling.
The Great Cover-Up.
Goodbye to Old Paint.
Caulk Is King.
Sealers and Primers.
Masking.
Drape the Walls.
For Safety's Sake.
Tips, Tricks, Tools, and More . . . .
Chapter 4: Painting.
Formulas for Success.
Making the Grade.
What’s Your Type?
Behind the Sheens.
How Much Paint?
Prepping Paint.
The Three Laws of Painting.
Basic Painting 101.
Brush Works.
Pad Works.
Roller Works.
Ceiling Solutions.
Trim Works.
Working a Room.
Hit the Walls.
Resurfacing Paneling.
Painting Bricks and Concrete.
Chapter 5: Faux Finishing.
Contrast and Color.
The Tree of Knowledge.
Prep Makes Perfect.
Specialty Tools.
Controlling Contrast.
That Glazed Look.
Positive Thinking.
Negative Finishes.
How Absorbing!
From Rags to Richness.
Striation Creation.
Hit the Wall.
All Washed Up.
Tips, Tricks, Tools, and More . . . .
Chapter 6: Clean and Store.
Clean as You Go.
Total Tool Care.
Storage Solutions.
The Dish on Disposal.
Chapter 7: Wallpapering.
The Material World.
Anatomy of a Wallpaper Book.
Choosing a Wallpaper.
Anatomy of a Wallpaper Design.
Anatomy of a Bolt.
Anatomy of a Sheet.
How Many Rolls to Buy.
The Sticky Stuff.
The Three Laws of Wallpapering.
The Henry Ford Method.
Rules of Engagement.
The Focal Point Wall.
Creating a Trial Layout.
Plotting the Layout.
Create a Blueprint for Success.
Precutting Wallpaper.
Processing Wallpaper.
Activating and Booking.
Hang It.
Seams.
Turning Corners.
Cutting Around Trim.
Recessed Windows and Doors.
Repairing a Gouge.
Repairing Seams.
Eliminating Bubbles.
Tool Checklists.
Index.