This impressive volume contains a complete guide to the materials and techniques essential for every artist's development. It covers mixing paints, using colour and basic preparation, then takes the reader through all the first techniques. More specialized methods are then explained, clearly and simply, for increasingly advanced and sophisticated effects. For the watercolour artist, there are practice exercises on using washes; masks and resists; spattering and sponging; and line and wash, while the artist working in oils or acrylics can build their confidence with exercises on glazing; scumbling; painting with knives; impasto work; and underpainting.