House rendering guide needed

Hi, I want to render the outside of my house but have no real idea
about how to go about this. I have read various faqs etc and have
picked up bits and pieces but am really looking for a complete guide
about how to go about this.

The house is 130 yrs old, a two up two down cottage with extension.
The walls have been messed about with over the years, with patches and
filled in windows making it look messy. Its solid enough and water
proof but looks a sight so I thought I would cover it up with a nice
render. I was thinking about a smooth (ish) render, not pebble dash,
and was hoping someone could point me to a step by step guide, faq or
book which will take me from preparation to finished product.

Thanks for the help
Ggliff, in highland Scotland