This practical and inspirational guide, in a handy sketchbook format, is aimed at the practised beginner and shows how to achieve successful acrylics in just 30 minutes -- ideal for the busy amateur artist who doesn't have too much time to paint. Many people think they don't have enough time to paint, but in this attractive guide Soraya French encourages quick and simple learning. By working with just a few materials and focusing on just the key techniques it is possible to achieve successful paintings in no more than half an hour. And for those artists who already have a little painting experience, learning to work more quickly enables them to free up their style and paint more spontaneously. All the main topics are covered, from choosing the right equipment and learning about colour and tone to techniques -- both the watercolour technique and the opaque technique -- creating textures and composition. There are practical projects and step-by-step demonstrations as well as helpful tips and checklists. Subjects covered include flowers, water, still life, animals and birds, figures, buildings and landscapes.