Your Home a Living Canvas: Create Fabulous Faux Finishes and Amazing Murals with Paint

In my humble opinion, this is one of the best faux books to come out in a while. The colors are rich, photographs are plenty (great before, during and after shots), the directions easy to understand and follow and finally, the finishes shown can give anyone -- from the novice to the professional -- new ideas from which to choose from. Being in this profession for 10 years, I like books that offer something new to learn. I must kindly disagree with the negative review given -- I found the title was exactly on point and I found that the use of plaster for the mural and design elements was imaginative since it made the designs "pop" out even more. The mix of murals and faux made this book more versatile and interesting...something every living canvas should be.

Curt Heuser's book illustrates his labor of love from buying a rundown row house in Newport, KY to its complete reconstruction and decorating that parallels the interiors of the mansions of Newport, RI. The beauty of the book, aside from its obvious visual appeal, is the unexpected didactic aspect. Curt not only shares the tools of his art and explains their uses, but also gives the reader the exact shade of each Sherwin Williams paint he employed. He almost has me believing I can paint clouds and cherubs in the tray ceiling of my foyer--if only I can conquer my fear of heights. Curt's dedication to detail, years of collecting, and patience to wait for the perfect stained glass and mosaic tile demonstrate remarkable dedication to a vision that was well worth the wait. I highly recommend this book whether you want to learn to faux finish or simply want a lovely coffee table book to leaf through. It's amazing to behold the same level of craftsmanship in a newly refurbished house that we thought ended with the Golden Age.

"Awesome" has become a word so inappropriately and over used in contemporary language that I hesitate to include it in this review, but applied in its truest form is the only word that does justice to this book. This work is an extraordinary journey in artistic expression and delight that includes a gift to the reader that, although promised by the introduction, delivers in greater abundance than I would ever have believed. While basking in the grandeur of seeing what a gifted artist has achieved in transforming a wreck into a palace, it suddenly becomes apparent that regardless of imagination or individual talent, much of what is showcased is achievable by anyone with even the most modest of abilities! Don't know where to find your inspiration? Curt shows you where he found his - a beloved knick-knack, an interesting antique store item, a pleasing fabric pattern - you name it, he reveals that inspiration is a natural inclination easily found within the simplest of everyday items. Don't know how to employ your source of inspiration? Curt shows you a myriad of ways to do just that. Afraid you don't have the knowledge or talent to tackle faux finishing? I thought so too until seeing how easy it was to follow the simple step-by-step directions. This book inspired me to try my first faux finishing project with results that far exceeded anything I would have thought possible, particularly since it was my first attempt. People can't believe that what I accomplished wasn't done by a professional. At a loss in selecting a color palette? (My nemesis!) Curt hands you many on a silver platter! I've always found picking colors that work together the hardest part of decorating. With more than two dozen examples, just find one you like and Curt gives you the exact palette down to the specific paint name that you just take to the store! It doesn't get easier than that! I originally purchased this book because of my interest in renovation, remodeling and design, and love of art in general. I've always enjoyed improving the various homes I've owned and love seeing how others transform stones into gems. While I have painted many a wall and baseboard in my life, decorative painting was something I thought I would never attempt or be able to achieve. How wrong I was and thanks to Curt I know now that magnificence is within my reach. I can't wait to attempt my first mural!

Well let me start by saying that I pre-ordered this book several months ago after touring the home by accident while on the local Garden Walking Tour. Curtis Heuser (homeowner/author/artist) - personally walked me through his marvelous home, and gave me a postcard about his upcoming book. I was mesmerized by the intricate workmanship thoughout the house (interior design, faux finish work, and mural artistry). I made my way home after the tour, and looked up this book and ordered it immediately! It's finally arrived and let me tell you it's worth every dime I paid & more. I found out he has a couple book signings coming up at a few events around town, and I plan on going back to congratulate him, and purchase a few more copies for gifts and get them signed! The pictures in the book were so vivid & well done it's as if I were there again! The before and after shots in the book show the REAL amount of work that he put into that home to bring it back to life. The how-to's are stepped out so easily that I think I may try a project or two in there to see how they work out for me half as well as they did in his home. Mr. Heuser's humor and wit come thru in of his writing - you'll know what I mean when you read about his trials & tribulations with "evicting the pigeons" from his attic! If you don't have a copy yet - GET ONE for yourself, and one for a friend...Enjoy! Five Stars out of Five!!! Best of luck...looking forward to a follow up already!!!

The quality of this hardcover book is "first-class"! It is richly stuffed with the most beautiful interior photographs I have ever seen, highlighting the classic murals and custom paint finishes in this fine historic home. I actually had the opportunity to tour this remarkable home during the National Tall Stacks riverboat event in Cincinnati OH. and Newport KY., in 2006. This book gracefully captures the warmth and "old-world" ambiance of the home. The graphic design or "look and feel" of this book is luscious as well- accompanied with an informative filled, yet delightful and entertaining read. For the low price, the content and value of this book is immense!!!!