Though written and compiled in the 1990s, this remains the most readable, accurate and useful book out there. Hayes worked with specialists in water color, oil, pastel, fresco, gouache, and acrylic, as well as charcoal, pen and ink, etc. and is aware of the different esthetics and work flows of various markets. The text is readable, the graphics are solid and useful. I wish I had known about it a dozen, or better yet, twenty years ago.