From the Techniques Section, the introduction to Beginning trompe l'oeil stenciling Trompe l'oeil utilizes three-dimensional effects and other paint techniques to create the illusion (literally, to "trick the eye") that the painted subject is real. When it involves only freehand painting, it can be daunting, but with stenciling as a basis for the trompe l'oeil, it becomes much simpler. The templates in this book give you a huge head start, because the basic design elements are already in place and ready to be transferred to whatever surface you wish to use. With these templates, and your own hand-painting to add some of the details or faux ("false") finishes like wood-grain, you will be able to produce surprisingly realistic-looking work. Even people who claim to have no artistic talent will gain the confidence to tackle elaborate projects. Combining stenciling with hand-painting gives you the best of both worlds. When, for example, a number of repeat patterns are involved, a stencil will avoid a lot of tedious repetition, whether you are painting lots of little boxes or one large wall. Stencils are also handy when you are working on a symmetrical subject, as you stencil only half of the design and then turn the stencil over and paint the other side, thus ensuring that both halves are identical. Yet another attraction of stenciling is the fact that it gives crisp, sharp edges combined with a wonderful, subtle texture that is absolutely unique.Designs are so lifelike that playing cards painted on a table look just like the real thing.Filled with hints, style ideas, and best of all, marvelous close-ups for each major step.Detailed instructions and plentiful photography to help you through the process, as well as templates for the stencil she uses.A how-to craft book that shows how to use simple stenciling, template and faux finish techniques to create trompe l'oeil paintings.Trompe l'oeil paint effects are among the most stunning and effective decorative treatments for walls, furniture and objects. The daunting idea of creating such breathtaking effects however, can be easy with the wealth of simple techniques and ideas provided here. Decorative artist Mary MacCarthy explains the necessary stenciling techniques: tracing and cutting stencils using templates mixing paints and making glazes and varnishes painting with stencils using different brushstrokes to create shading and perspective creating the basic shapes of vases, plates and panels. Through a series of 20 projects, she shows how easy it is to create extraordinary visual effects by using templates and repeating patterns and motifs, rather than trying to paint freehand. Faux finishes are equally simple to create and the combinations of stonework or woodgrain with stenciled motifs are stunning. Using ragging, dragging, stippling, and more, Mary MacCarthy progresses from simple mural painting to wood marquetry. There are step-by-step instructions and photographs for a Delft tile backsplash, an Etruscan firescreen, a bamboo-effect sidetable; a marbled fireplace, chinoiserie plates, an alphabet block headboard, a scagliola work inlaid tabletop, Dado panels, and a picket-fence frieze that would be perfect for a hall or sunroom. Template designs are provided and all the projects are accompanied by illustrative photography, comprehensive step-by-step instructions, hints and style idea sidebars and material lists. Simple Trompe L'Oeil is as easy to use as it is beautiful and inspiring.
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