The book opens with a lively history of printing in various cultures. The story starts with the simple discovery that a relief surface, like the palm of a hand, can be used to make a decorative mark on a flat surface, and leads on to tell of the sophisticated processes which resulted in delicate Japanese prints, fine Indian chintzes and the brilliant achievements of a craftsman like William Morris.Descriptions of the many tools, materials and media which can be used in printing then preface twenty-seven decorating projects, each clearly describing the steps necessary to produce a particular pattern. The projects are illustrated with striking close-up photographs, showing not just the printing processes, but also the luscious textures of the paints, dyes and surfaces employed. The fun of mixing up paints, printing freehand across a length of fabric or watching the magical effect of silk screening is captured in text and photographs as decorative pieces are created and interiors are transformed.The book is a primer for people interested in the visual enrichment and hands-on pleasure that printing can offer - the simple satisfaction, for example, to be found in carving a potato into a stamp and printing it onto paper to produce a wall border or onto fabric to make up curtains. The authors exploit the basic spirit of printed decoration to demonstrate techniques as diverse as lino cutting, woodblocking, stencilling, batiking and tie dyeing - all of which are easily achievable with the guidance and inspiration found here.The result is the most comprehensive practical book ever about this fascinating subject, which demonstrates how, with some knowledge, a little imagination and very little outlay, you can produce an endless variety of original images to decorate your home.