You want to look for decorative painting instructional books on trompe l'oeil (literally means trick the eye). HEre is an example and you can get thisbook used for as low as $4:
http://www.amazon.com/Trompe-LOeil-C.../dp/071531257X
I used to teach decorative painting classes. Everyone was always amazed at how simple it can really be. Good books, good brushes, good paints and a little time and you can have yourself a ball!