This is a project-based book on painting with oils for beginners. Working your way through the 11 original projects you will practise a variety of painting techniques; subjects include spring flowers, a still life in blue and white, a delightful cat, and sky over the countryside. It is an expert and accessible text with over 185 detailed photographs clearly showing how to create each painting. It offers guidance on techniques and materials, including using paints, diluents and mediums; paint brushes and palettes; canvas, board and paper supports; and painting accessories. The simple projects encompass the infinite range of textures and effects that oil painting allows. This is a practical, easy-to-follow guidebook to the different techniques involved in oil painting, with over 80 pages of original projects designed for the novice. Practical, easy-to-follow text and step-by-step photographs clearly show the creation of each picture and offer expert guidance on the different techniques and materials required to produce each one. While many beginners see this medium as intimidating, you'll discover that it's an easy way of painting that can be manipulated freely and extensively to create an infinite range of textures and effects. You can try painting both lively scenes and still life, including children playing in water and autumn trees waving their branches in the wind. With helpful hints throughout and inspirational paintings on every page, this book is as indispensable as paints, brushes, and canvas in every artist's studio.