Nancy Reyner

I am a mostly self-taught hobbyist painter. I took a couple of art classes my last year of undergrad, and they were the first "real" art classes I had ever had. I discovered that I really enjoy art, but had no idea how to use the tools available or how to get certain effects.

This book was really helpful for me. It shows many different techniques for using acrylic paint and related supplies, which can be used in many different ways. Although I was aware of some from my painting class, others were completely new to me, and I've already attempted some with great results. I've also shared the book with friends who are more skilled with acrylic painting, and they've said that they appreciate the tips and reminders when they were stuck with certain things they wanted to do.

It's a good size, and the hardcover combined with spiral binding make it really easy to use - it lies flat on the table or it can stand upright/lean against something and stay open.

Some of the organization is a bit confusing to me, and I often have to read through the entire book to find the one part I was wanting to reference. Post-it notes or paperclips are useful for marking out the topic sections to make it easier to go quickly to the right page. I also recommend reading it through front to back one time in order to become familiar with the contents, which makes future referencing much easier.

This is a very useful book. I got it from a used bookstore for less than half the price of it new at the art store, but I probably wouldn't have paid full price for it.… (meer)