Venetian Plastering Tool Kit? The 128 Correct Answer

For years, choosing wall paneling for a bathroom has been a choice between quality and looks versus price. On the one hand you have wall tiles that look great and protect against water, on the other hand you have regular painted plasterboard that is much cheaper. What if you could take advantage of both?

Despite being a centuries-old material, Venetian or polished plaster has recently become increasingly popular with Sydney homeowners. Venetian plaster gives your walls a spectacular finish, is water resistant and much cheaper than tiles. Venetian plaster is a high-quality lime-based wall plaster. While it can be polished to a flat, glossy finish, it can also add visual texture and depth to walls and ceilings.

The interplay of natural and artificial light contrasting with this elegant finish can almost instantly make a major design statement in any dull space, including a dated bathroom – one of the reasons Venetian plaster is becoming popular again in Sydney. So what should you know before you decide to have Venetian plaster in your bathroom?

Venetian plaster is both a type of plaster and the name of an artificial finishing technique. Authentic Venetian plaster is a mixture of aged lime putty and marble powder that dates back to at least the 16th century. The faux finishing technique became popular in the United States and Europe in the 1950s and 1960s. While traditional Venetian plaster mixes are still available, they must be applied to porous surfaces. Modern Venetian plasters contain polymers that will adhere to well-prepared drywall. Although mastering the technique takes a little practice, the steps are not inherently difficult.

Venetian plaster is a painting treatment used to add interest and texture to ordinary walls. While it’s a decorative look that can hide imperfections, it’s certainly not an aesthetic that will appeal to everyone. If you have a wall with Venetian plaster or a similar textured art treatment, you may want to smooth it out to have normal color on your wall. This is no easy task and requires a lot of patience, but it is possible to achieve the smooth, even look you are hoping for.

Find out if it is worth having Venetian plaster in your home.

Venetian plaster is a material used to finish walls since ancient times. In the last 10 years, it became a huge trend and gained insane popularity, especially among high-end homes in Los Angeles. Here’s why designers and homeowners choose it over other luxury add-ons.

IT LOOKS BEAUTIFUL AND TIMELESS

Venetian plaster is a classic tradition, adding nuanced color and shine to plain walls, often mimicking the aesthetics of stone or marble without the expense of such expensive materials. Venetian plaster is far more luxurious and versatile than most people give it credit for. If you love the old world aesthetics and elegant simplicity of centenary European homes, then Venetian plaster may be the perfect finish for your own custom home building project.

INCREASES YOUR HOUSE VALUE

It instantly increases the value of your home – whether you are looking to build equity or get a premium price when you sell it, Venetian plaster increases the aesthetics of the home as well as the overall resale value if you do things right. Adding value can be as simple as figuring out a few Venetian stucco features for the home. According to the National Association of Realtors’ 2017 Remodeling Impact Report, 6.4% of realtors have suggested sellers add timeless luxury touches before attempting to sell their home. More high-end level projects have increased their ROI this year in recent years. This suggests that homeowners place a greater value on luxury and high-quality remodeling for their homes.

IT IS NATURAL

Traditionally, what makes Venetian plaster so special is that it is all natural and made primarily from limestone and water. Some varieties may also contain marble dust or other aggregates, but generally it is an organic material derived from nature.

This is great on two fronts. First, the use of all-natural materials helps create an elegant, organic look that blurs the line between inside and outside. Secondly, natural Venetian plaster is non-toxic, does not emit pollutants into the air and is naturally mold resistant.

IT LOOKS LIKE MARBLE

If you want to get the look of marble but can’t use real marble due to budget or design constraints, Venetian plaster is a fantastic substitute. Due to its natural properties and the way it is applied (in thin, translucent layers that are often polished), it offers a soft, earthy look with an iridescent finish – just like marble or stone.

With this in mind, Venetian plaster is a particularly good choice for curved walls, columns, and other large surfaces where real marble would cost a fortune.

IT IS CUSTOMIZABLE

Venetian plaster can be tinted with natural or synthetic dyes. If you’re looking for the aesthetics of a specific marble or want to get extra creative, the sky’s the limit! Although natural, earthy tones are most often preferred, as that’s how Venetian plaster shines best, know you’re not limited here. If you want a color that doesn’t exist naturally, you can probably create it.

The texture can also be adjusted. When Venetian plaster is polished (the traditional method, as mentioned above) the result is a delightfully smooth texture. However, if you’re interested in a more robust feel, that’s possible too – it just requires the addition of more.

IT IS LOW MAINTENANCE

Venetian plaster (especially Venetian plaster without additional additives) does not age or fade and is very durable. It’s also easy to clean and, should you spot a blemish, it can be easily repaired. Gone are the days when you had to replaster an entire wall because of a small scratch!

Sometimes regular color only gets you so far. While Venetian plaster is best known for its old-fashioned appeal, many people also claim that the smooth texture and subtle sheen are gracefully modern – which just goes to show how versatile this finish really is. So if you want a sophisticated, sophisticated look that is natural and affordable, Venetian plaster is a great option.

Some of these benefits include

1. Versatility

2. Easy maintenance

3. Durability

4. Unique

5. Eco-friendly

Do you have plans to renovate your house in the future? If you are like most other homeowners, you want your interior to look stylish, elegant and unique. Venetian plastering is extremely durable and absolutely unique. The Venetian plaster transforms your simple, plain walls into structures that appear stylish and self-contained. This Italian polishing plaster is widely used in the construction of corporate buildings and fashionable homes. At PaintCity Vancouver we specialize in decorative wall coverings such as Venetian plasterwork and can create custom wall coverings using the highest quality materials. The benefits of this type of finish are provided for both commercial and residential interiors. Regardless of the type of interior you are renovating, Venetian plaster can be easily applied to almost any surface. Existing walls can be easily transformed into structures that look sophisticated and modern. This material can also be used to patch old stone, wood, brick, drywall, etc. Venetian polished plaster requires little maintenance. Because this decorative finish is mixed with different pigments, it will last for many years without fading, meaning fewer coats of paint are needed on walls. The quick and easy moistening and drying of the plaster makes cleaning and care much easier. This Italian polishing plaster is very durable. In fact, this material can last for several years. The plaster layer of this material, after drying, turns into a stone-like substance. It withstands bumps and small movements over the years and lasts longer than other finishes. This decoratively polished plaster would be a practical option for any home or business. The Venetian plaster consists of different elements and a mineral composition that make it incomparable. These fabrics have high breathability, which prevents any growth of fungus and mold on the wall. This decorative plaster prevents the accumulation of moisture under the polished surface and keeps mold, bacteria and moisture at bay. An effective way to be eco-friendly is to install Venetian plaster in your home or business. The materials in this plaster are all natural, making it a remarkably beneficial and quality wall. This type of plastering ensures improved and optimal air quality. The growth of mold and other fungi is prevented by the antibacterial base of the lime. By adding plaster to a wall, you are essentially adding layers of protection and insulation that will help keep the wall in good, pristine condition for many years to come. Before applying a unique Venetian plaster, you should remove the previous texture. Turn to professionals who will get the job done on time and on the best budget.

Fun with Venetian Plaster: March 2, 2013

Venetian Plaster Fun, starring Sandra Duran Wilson!

demo in review

No, it’s not an Artisans operation, it’s just marble dust and plaster. What a great demo Sandra did at Artisan and she nailed the demo for us and here it is. Thank you Sandra!!

plaster types

There are three main types of plaster: lime plaster, gypsum plaster and cement plaster

Gypsum plaster is almost pH neutral, making it fairly safe to work with and less reactive with many additives and coatings; whereas lime has a high pH or high alkalinity. It is more dangerous to work with and only natural mineral shades are compatible. For this reason I decided to work with plaster. Gypsum is used in construction and gypsum can be poured into molds. We will only deal with gypsum plasters in this demo.

Differences within gypsum plaster: gypsum, Venetian plaster and plaster gauze or Modroc.

Gypsum can be poured into molds or poured over a fitting. It can also be applied like Venetian plaster, but thicker. It dries relatively quickly. When gypsum is mixed with water, a chemical reaction begins that cannot be stopped. There are 3 stages: wet, cured and cured. Gypsum is very dense and hard after hardening.

Venetian Plaster is an acrylic and plaster product that accepts acrylic paints very well. It must be built up in thin layers. If you use acrylic paints, dilute them with water so that they absorb better into the plaster. You can polish the plaster to a nice shine. It is softer than plaster and needs to be protected with a sealant.

Plaster Gauze or Modroc is plaster infused gauze that can be wrapped around a fitting or even used on cardboard and combined with Venetian plaster or plaster to create some wonderful finishes.

Substrates: plywood or screened wood panels. Flexible substrates only work when glued to a rigid surface.

Application Tools: Spatulas, trowels, paint shapers, bondo tools, and old credit cards are great painting tools.

Colors: Craft paint or diluted artists’ acrylic paints work well. I also use powdered pigments and even mix marble dust into the colors. NEVER use a thick layer of acrylic. It doesn’t bond to the patch and just peels off.

Layers: The first layer should be a thin layer, the second a structural layer struck down with a trowel or other tool, and the last layer a superficial layer. I like to put a new coat of plaster over a coat of plaster that has been painted and sealed and then go back and remove some of the plaster on top.

Sealer: If I have a layer that I’ve painted that I like, I seal it with a diluted acrylic polymer, let it dry, and continue layering plaster and paint.

Remove: I use green scrubbers and sandpaper to remove layers of plaster to reveal embedded objects.

Carving: When wet it is easy to make marks in the plaster and once dry you can still carve in it.

Embedding: You can embed thin flat objects between layers of plaster and expose parts of it after drying. This is a lot of fun and you get some unexpected visuals and textures.

Transfers: Many ways to make transfers in plaster. Today I’m going to demonstrate the use of inkjet prints.

Buffing: Very fine grit sandpaper like 400-600 works well for buffing. I even use a smooth stone or brown construction paper for the finishing touches.

Alternative Finishes: Once the plaster is dry and set you can seal it with a thinned acrylic finish or even wax.

IMPORTANT: Never throw plaster products down the drain, this includes cleaning your tools.

How to apply Venetian plaster and other stucco work to shower walls

Our customers often ask us if they can put plaster in shower stalls. Applying stucco to showers is certainly one of the most ambitious challenges in plaster finishing. There are many problems associated with it while, as we shall see, there are few solutions. Read on to learn how to apply band-aids in a shower with impressive and long-lasting results.

A worthy challenge

The application of natural lime-based plasters in showers can easily transform an ordinary bathroom into a high-quality, luxurious environment. Marmorino Venetian Plaster, Tadelakt and Pastelone are examples of elegant, eco-friendly finishes that can be used in shower stalls.

However, shower stalls are exposed to daily water flows and poor air circulation, leading to moisture build-up. If you apply lime-based natural plasters to shower walls, they will therefore quickly develop irreversible water stains and mould. But after years of using plaster in showers and steam rooms, we have found the solutions to all the major challenges. In this post, we share with you the techniques to achieve durable and flawless plaster finishes in showers step by step.

1. Prepare a durable plaster base for the shower

If you are going to apply stucco to the walls of the shower, it is crucial to prepare a strong yet flexible plaster base. This will prevent the stucco from cracking. Let’s see why and how to do it.

I. Applying a plaster to a waterproofing membrane

First of all, in some countries it is mandatory to cover the floor of the shower with a waterproof membrane. This membrane often has a rubbery and flexible surface. However, these membranes are designed for tiles, not plaster surfaces. Band-Aids are too thin to be applied to such a soft surface and will certainly tear if applied directly to it.

In addition, covering it with a fibrous adhesive plaster before applying the stucco is not enough to prevent it from cracking. Because every shower cubicle has a weak point: the fitting handles. When attaching the handles, a ring is screwed into the wall with strong pressure. This pressure cracks and breaks the plaster around the handles. In addition, if the layer of plaster is not strong enough, cracks may appear along the walls.

Mistake 1: Marmorino applied directly to a waterproofing membrane. Cracks formed around the faucet handles, which eventually appeared along the walls.

The simplest solution to this problem is to apply a first coat of fibre-reinforced plaster to the entire surface of the shower cubicle (e.g. our AntiCrack enriched with the powerful SAA adhesion promoter). After drying, place a polyester or fiberglass mesh (180 g per square meter) in the area of ​​the faucet and faucet handles and fix it to the surface with the same fiber-reinforced plaster. When this second layer is dry apply the same fabric again to the entire shower screen and secure with the fiber plaster. Finally, when the third and final coat is dry, you can apply your stucco directly to the shower stall walls.

II. Apply plaster to tiles

Sometimes you may want to apply plaster to old tile in bathrooms or shower walls. When applying stucco to a tiled shower screen, you must first prepare a level, non-slip surface. In other words, you want to fill in the gaps between the tiles to create an even, level surface. However, most undercoats tend to shrink as the water they contain dries, leaving the joints unfilled.

In this case, you should cover the tiled wall with a non-shrinking, adherent base coat such as e.g. B. the joint leveling plaster (GLP). This plaster has extreme adhesion and does not shrink when it dries. Because it is very adhesive, you can also use it as an undercoat on very smooth surfaces such as marble or tiles without having to sand them first. Simply clean the tiles to remove the greasy substances before applying.

On the contrary, if there are no waterproofing membranes or tiles, you can apply your plaster directly on top of a first coat of universal primer.

2. Impregnate the shower surface and its critical points

Waterproofing is the second most important step when applying stucco in shower stalls. As we’ve said before, moisture buildup in a shower will quickly cause stains and mold and permanently damage your plaster. Unless, of course, you know how to choose the right impregnation for your finish. In addition, you need to pay special attention to protecting the areas where water droplets hide or dry more slowly. Let’s look at them one by one.

I. Choose the right finishing treatment for your cast

First, you need to make the shower screens waterproof, but also make them easily washable. In fact, not only can you get stains caused by prolonged exposure to moisture, you can also get mold caused by buildup of organic matter from skin and soap. Lime plasters that are suitable for exterior surfaces also tend to deteriorate in a shower area. This happens because they are difficult to dry in the corners, in the lower parts and generally in an environment with little air circulation like the shower. Prolonged wetting of a plaster creates irreversible dark spots due to the accumulation of salts in the surface layer of the stucco.

Mistake 2: Poor impregnation resulted in permanent “wet effect” stains on the plaster

Mistake 2: Poor sealing resulted in mold growth around the handle ring and wall corners

Our experience has taught us that there are two solutions that give the best results. The first is to apply a solvent-based paraffin wax (such as Stucco Italiano’s Fine Wax), better if applied after treating the surface with a water-repellent agent (such as Hydrocalce). However, if you decide to use this paraffin protection, the treatment will have to be repeated several times every few months.

Instead, the most effective solution is to use a polyurethane varnish that leaves the color intact and, with good quality, also respects the aesthetic aspect of the finish. First apply two coats of universal primer, diluted 1:14 with water. This treatment improves the penetration of the paint into the micropores of the plaster. Then apply two or three layers of polyurethane varnish, e.g. B. PU1C or PU2C. Make the first coat a little more liquid than specified by the manufacturer so that it penetrates well into the pores of the plaster. The water content should be between 10 and 15%.

II. Protect the shower faucet area and shower tray seal

The shower stall has two delicate points. The first, as we have already seen, is the faucet handle area. When we apply lime plasters in showers, we have to prevent the water from slipping behind the rings of the faucet handles and faucets. If it penetrates, it will slide into the plaster base and stain around and under the handles.

Error 3: Water has slipped into the grip ring and thus into the base plaster, causing stains around the grip.

Mistake 4: Moisture and dirt collect in the seal between the wall and the shower tray and cause mildew stains.

You can easily avoid this problem by applying silicone behind the rings of the handles when you attach them to the wall. It is enough to put the silicone in the upper arc of the ring.

Create a shadow gap

The second sensitive point is the seal between the wall and the shower tray. When cleaning in the shower, don’t overlook the seal, as this area collects moisture and dirt more than any other. This leads to severe moisture and mold stains. Starting from the construction, we recommend creating a shadow gap between the two surfaces, as in the image below. When designing the shadow gap, care must be taken to ensure that the wall surface falls into the shower tray so that the water does not stagnate at the point of contact between the two. Then apply an anti-mould silicone inside the shadow gap.

Example of a shadow gap in a shower cubicle to prevent moisture accumulation between the wall and the shower tray

Other common mistakes

If you have decided to protect your plaster surface with paraffin, be sure to apply the silicone sealer before applying the paraffin. In fact, silicone does not stick to paraffin and will certainly peel off when applied to it. The picture below shows this typical mistake: the wall was first treated with paraffin wax and only then was the shower tray sealed. The water has penetrated and the silicone has dissolved.

We do without plaster in the shower tray. You can do this, but you will need to be extremely careful in preparing the drain pipe area so that it can be properly sealed.

Error 5. The silicone seal has come off because it was applied over the paraffin treatment

Recommended plasters and treatments for showers

Over the years of applying stucco in showers and steam rooms, we have developed and improved the following products to make this ambitious challenge easier for fabricators.

substrate

AntiCrack: The fiber plaster AntiCrack from Stucco Italiano is a perfect base plaster for showers. This fiber render needs to be fortified with our Strong Adhesion Agent (SAA) to be applied over waterproofing membranes. This fortified plaster is extremely strong while its fibrous nature prevents it from cracking. This material, combined with the use of the mesh, creates an incredibly strong internal surface for the application of plaster of paris to waterproofing membranes. When using our AntiCrack it is not necessary to apply a universal primer before covering the wall with plaster.

Joint leveling plaster (GLP). It is an extremely sticky plaster that does not shrink when it dries. Because of this quality we use it to fill gaps between tiles in walls and floors before applying pastelone or other plasters. As it is also very adhesive, it can be used as a first coat on very smooth surfaces such as marble or tile floors, before applying lime or cement based floor finishes. When using our GLP there is no need to sand the tiles: simply clean the tiles to remove the greasy substances before application.

Plasters suitable for showers

Inside showers you can only use smooth plasters because the rough ones retain the organic residues that cause mold. Here are some smooth plasters that our customers love to apply in showers.

Marmorino Medio: our polished Venetian plaster, perfect for a greater glossy, classic effect.

. Pastelone: ​​our reinforced Venetian plaster. You can apply it on bathroom walls, showers and also on the floors. We especially recommend it when you want to recreate the natural elegance of a minimal, seamless environment.

. We especially recommend it when you want to recreate the natural elegance of a minimal, seamless environment. Tadelakt: This finish is traditionally used in Moroccan steam baths (Hamams). Due to its application method, it is particularly waterproof. The material is repeatedly pressed with a special stone, due to which all micropores close and the surface becomes impermeable.

Final protective treatment

Tadelakt on the wall and ceiling of the shower cubicle

Recent posts:

How to apply stucco in showers – summarized

How to apply lime plaster in a shower, a summary Step-by-step instructions Waterproofing faucet handles Apply silicone behind the faucet handle rings when you mount it on the wall. It is enough to put the silicone in the upper arc of the ring. Applying plasters to a waterproofing membrane If a waterproofing membrane is in place, apply an initial coat of fibre-reinforced plaster to the entire surface of the shower enclosure. After drying, attach a polyester or fiberglass cloth to the area of ​​the faucet and faucet handles. Attach it to the surface with the same fiber reinforced plaster. When this second layer is dry apply the same fabric again to the entire shower screen and secure with the fiber plaster. Applying Plaster to Tile Sometimes you may want to plaster bathroom walls over existing tile. In this case, you need to fill in the gaps between the tiles to create an even, level surface. To do this, you should cover the tiled wall with a non-shrinking, adhesive base coat. Apply Your Chosen Plaster Now you can apply your stucco directly to the walls of the shower stall. Be sure to use a smooth plaster, as rough plaster will retain organic residues that cause mold. Impregnating shower walls First apply two coats of universal primer, diluted with water at a ratio of 1:14. Then apply two or three coats of good quality polyurethane varnish. Apply silicone to the shower tray seal Apply an anti-mold silicone to the seal between the shower walls and the shower tray.

FAQ – Can I apply plasters in the shower?

Can I put plaster in shower walls? Yes, smooth lime plasters such as Marmorino Venetian Plaster, Pastelone and Tadelakt can be applied to the shower walls according to our recommendations. In contrast, rough plasters cannot be applied in a shower area as they retain organic residues that cause mold. Can I put Venetian plaster in shower walls? Yes, you can apply a medium or coarse venetian plaster to the shower walls. Follow our application tips to avoid moisture stains and mold. What plasters can be applied in showers? Smooth lime-based plasters such as Marmorino Venetian Plaster, Pastelone and Tadelakt can be applied to shower walls. In contrast, rough plasters cannot be applied in shower areas because they retain organic residues that cause mold. What is the best impregnation for plaster in showers? The most effective solution is to use a polyurethane varnish. First apply two coats of universal primer, diluted 1:14 with water. Then apply two or three layers of polyurethane varnish, e.g. B. PU1C or PU2C. This method creates a completely impermeable surface that respects the aesthetic aspect of the plaster surface. Can I apply plaster to the shower tray? We do without plaster in the shower tray. You can do this, but you will need to be extremely careful in preparing the drain pipe area so that it can be properly sealed. Can I apply plaster to tiles? Sometimes you may want to plaster bathroom walls over existing tiles. In this case, you need to fill in the gaps between the tiles to create an even, level surface. To do this, you should cover the tiled wall with a non-shrinking, adhesive base coat.

Tags: how to apply plasters in shower

Stucco styles available for your next polished plaster project

There are many types of stucco suitable for polished plaster projects. Some predate Roman times, while others arose in the last century. No matter how old they are, they all have a place in a project.

We can also find unique stuccos or derivations of the oldest marble plaster in the world. Clay plaster is a good example as an alternative to lime.

At Chrysalis we mainly work with marmorino plaster and acrylic, but we can also work with others. In this article, we’ll cover the types of stucco available for your next polished plaster project.

marmorino

Natural stucco

Marmorino is one of the oldest plasters in the world. Dating from before Roman times, it is lime based with a very smooth texture. Marble flour is added as a core aggregate. By polishing Marmorino you give it the appearance of solid marble.

Venetian

Natural stucco

Often confused with marmorino plaster, Venetian plaster is also based on lime but adds sand to the list of aggregates. The effect is a more even and slightly opaque appearance. Like Marmorino, Venetian is an Italian stucco.

Intona Plaster

Natural stucco

Intona plaster is a traditional Italian stucco with a grainier appearance than marmorino. It has the same texture as limestone when polished and doesn’t shine as much, making it a good choice for more subtle applications.

acrylic plaster

Synthetic stucco

Acrylic or resin based plaster is a new product that can be polished with the same effect as marmorino. It consists of a resin base, an elastomeric resin, particles (such as marble or stone dust) and water. It is very durable.

application of stucco

One or three layers

Traditional stucco is applied in three coats – a scratch, then a primer, and then a top coat. This is labor intensive but produces the best possible finish. This is how stucco has been used around the world for thousands of years.

Newer stucco systems can be applied with a primer and a thin top coat. These are called single layer stucco, although they are actually two. One coat stucco is quickest to apply and gives good results. Most people will not be able to tell the difference between a three-layer stucco and a one-layer stucco unless they are plasterers.

The best plaster coating system for your project depends on the application. Walls that are in poor condition will likely benefit from a three coat coat of paint. Walls in good condition can get away with a coat of paint. Feel free to send us some photos of your walls for advice and we will recommend the right system for you.

stencil and texture

Stucco can also be stenciled and textured for logos, slogans and quotes to give it a different look under certain lighting conditions. There are two ways to achieve texture with a stucco: by mechanical stirring or by incorporating aggregate into the plaster mix. Both are justified depending on the application.

Find out today

Polished plaster is useful for a variety of applications including columns and archways, in addition to walls and ceilings. It is durable, easy to care for and healthy because it is breathable. This prevents mold and mildew from forming making it suitable for use in wet areas such as washrooms and kitchens.

To learn more about the different types of stucco available for your polished plaster project, speak to our team today. We are experts in decorative surfaces and special plastering techniques. Call us on 0113 269 0592 or 0772 548 8669 or send us a message on this page and we will get back to you.

Is polished plaster waterproof?

Polished or Venetian plaster in its natural form is not waterproof, you can apply wax or some sealers to waterproof it, but it will never be fully waterproof.

What is marmorino?

Click here to go to our page that explains Marmorino.

Can Venetian plaster be used in a bathroom/shower?

Venetian plaster can be used in a bathroom but is not waterproof so be careful where you apply it. However, it has good resistance to mold and condensation because the lime in this natural product allows the walls to “breathe”, is naturally antibacterial and a natural mold killer.

How to apply Venetian plaster?

Apply the Venetian plaster with a trowel. It has the consistency of thick yogurt and is applied thinly to prepared and primed walls in three coats for Spatula Stuhhi, two coats for Spirito Libero and two coats for Istinto. Please watch the videos to see how it is applied.

How to remove stains from Venetian plaster?

Dampen a soft cloth with warm water and place a dab of mild liquid dish soap in the center. Buff the soapy cloth very lightly over smudges or minor stains to remove them. If necessary, remove soap residue with another damp cloth. However, unsealed walls absorb oil and water, clean water dries without effect, but oil or grease remains. If you have successfully removed oil stains, please let me know.

How to maintain Venetian stucco walls?

Click here to go to our page explaining how to care for your Venetian plaster walls.

What are the advantages of Venetian plaster?

Click here to go to our page explaining the benefits of Venetian plaster.

How to remove Venetian plaster?

Once the walls are dry, you can only remove the Venetian plaster by scraping or sanding. If you want to paint over, sand it to create a key, then apply your new finish.

How do you clean polished plaster?

Polished plaster is a strong material, but it is also delicate, so cleaning should always be done gently and with sensitivity to the surface. We recommend using a mild soapy detergent with a damp cotton cloth to wipe down your walls or a microfiber cloth to dust them. You can regrow or reseal your walls to restore their appearance.

How do I find an experienced applicator?

Click here to go to our experienced applicators page.

Can I use packet forwarding?

But you can please check if you accept the weight and size of the goods. We cannot be held responsible for goods refused, damaged or lost as a result of your external arrangements.

Venetian plaster is both a type of plaster and the name of an artificial finishing technique. Authentic Venetian plaster is a mixture of aged lime putty and marble powder that dates back to at least the 16th century. The faux finishing technique became popular in the United States and Europe in the 1950s and 1960s. While traditional Venetian plaster mixes are still available, they must be applied to porous surfaces. Modern Venetian plasters contain polymers that will adhere to well-prepared drywall. Although mastering the technique takes a little practice, the steps are not inherently difficult.

Are you looking for a new way to decorate your home? Venetian plaster is an ancient decorative technique that has been around for centuries. Multiple layers of plaster are applied to walls and ceilings, giving them a unique look.

You can use this style of decoration on any surface in your home or office, including furniture and floors. It goes well with many types of home decor, so there is no limit to how Venetian plaster can be used in your space. You can also mix lime plaster and marble dust to create this permanent bond.

But in order for you to be able to do all this, you need to know how to apply Venetian plaster. Wondering how to do that? This article will guide you through a comprehensive guide to applying Venetian plaster.

The materials needed

eye protection

Paint brush

role

color tray

working gloves

Steel trowel

400 to 600 grit sandpaper

drop cloth

Venetian plaster

roll cover

painting primer

top coat or paste wax

Universal dyes

dust mask

instructions

Sharpen your skills

Before you start rolling on the Venetian plaster it’s good to get an idea of ​​your skills. Get some practice pieces together for this project. Some sheets of drywall, plywood, or fiberboard work well. Spread some newspaper on the floor and cover any items you don’t want to paint.

Then practice your plastering techniques on these pieces of wood. Use a brush to apply your Venetian plaster to the piece, then smooth it out with a trowel or spatula.

Choose a patch to apply

Venetian plaster comes in two varieties, including synthetic paint and lime-based plaster. Which one you choose will depend on your budget and expertise. Lime-based plasters are considered true Venetians because over time they turn into stones.

Lime-based plasters are more durable and retain their beauty longer than homemade synthetic plasters. They are also natural and considered more eco-friendly than synthetic. Lime plaster is naturally resistant to mold and mildew.

On the other hand, synthetic Venetian plaster is inorganic and its color is limited to the few offered by the manufacturer. It is also not easy to tint because it requires a special machine. Make sure you choose authentic Venetian plaster for your project.

Gather your tools and lay down tarps

Be sure to protect the floor in your work area by laying down plastic sheeting to keep dust from your work from getting everywhere. You should also have a bucket, trowel, joint sponge and a paint roller with a long handle ready. Do not use painter’s tape to protect moldings or other walls that you are not plastering.

Remember that plaster is not paint so it can bond to the tape and crack or peel when removed, especially if you are using lime based plaster.

Prepare your room

Clean up your room as much as possible and wipe down the entire surface with a clean rag soaked in soapy water. Take a few minutes to learn how to mop your floor before proceeding. Next, drape the tarp over the ledge and bottom of the wall.

Of course, you’ll apply Venetian plaster to most walls and ceilings, but the surface needs to be even and smooth. If there are holes and cracks, the plaster will seep through when you apply Venetian plaster. Therefore, fill them in with putty before applying the coating.

If you are applying Venetian plaster to an existing wall with paint, first remove all of the old paint and then repair any holes or cracks with putty and lightly sand the putty area with 100 grit sandpaper. Wash off dirt and grease and prime the surfaces before applying the Venetian plaster. Avoid using steel trowels and drywall knives as they can leave lines and scratches in your plaster.

If you want to plaster an uneven surface, sand the entire surface or scrape it with a spatula. If you use synthetic Venetian plaster, be sure to fill the holes and cracks with plaster.

Apply primer to discoloration

If your wall was painted flat paint, apply a primer that you can tint to the color of Venetian plaster. Spread the primer evenly and lightly on the wall with a paint roller. Depending on the walls you are plastering, you can let it dry before applying a second coat to get a smooth, even coat.

If you are using lime-based plasters, you can apply the plaster directly to the stucco or masonry. You can also use a special primer called fondo. Note that natural Venetian does not bond well to standard primers. Let it dry for 24 hours before applying the patch.

Apply the first layer

Wear gloves when mixing Venetian plaster to achieve an even color. Fill your trowel with the hawk’s hot dog mix, then apply a three-inch coat of grout to the surface. Use short, gently curved, x-shaped strokes at different angles.

Starting in the top left corner of your room, apply a thin coat of plaster using a flexible steel trowel while holding your trowel at a 15 to 30 degree angle to the wall. Gradually work your way to the other end, covering about 8 feet at a time until you’ve covered all four walls. Try not to put too much pressure on the trowel as this can create burrs in your wall.

Clean your steel trowel from time to time to remove hardened plaster that may have stuck to its surface. Leaving these on can cause damage to your wall later on, so always take the time to remove them before applying more plaster to the wall.

Apply the second layer

If using synthetic plaster, allow at least four hours for the undercoat to set before applying a second coat. However, with lime-based plaster, you can wait up to ten days between coats. Start the same way you applied the first layer. Hold your trowel or drywall knife at a 60-90 degree angle, then apply your plaster in long and short overlapping strokes to give the final finish an uneven appearance.

Check your progress as you work your way across to make sure any ridges and indentations have been filled. If you see some small areas of deep pits or ridges, use a thin trowel to smooth them out before the mixture gets too dry.

If you are not satisfied with the end result after applying a second layer, you can apply the third layer if you wish. If using lime-based plaster, add a tinted topcoat of lime dust, linseed oil, soap, and dye. Allow your patch to dry for 24 hours before proceeding with the finishing treatment.

Polish the surface

After the second layer has dried, you can polish it with a dry sponge. This gives your surface a nice, polished sheen that’s slightly matte. Use 400-600 grit paper to polish synthetic plaster if desired. Then clean the surface with a damp cloth.

You can also make the surface look more polished by rubbing your fingers over the surface. You can also rub the surface with a clean cloth or spatula for an even shinier shine. When you’re done, wipe down your wall with soap and water to remove dust particles.

Continue waxing

Dip your clean trowel in tinted paste wax and spread it over your plaster in light layers. Allow each coat to dry before applying another. It is best to apply several thin layers instead of one thick layer. A good rule of thumb is to let the wax dry for ten minutes after each coat, then buff it with a clean rag or soft cloth until you get a nice shine that resembles a freshly waxed car.

You can also deepen the color variations by brushing pre-tinted glaze over the lighter areas of your surface. Remember that real marble has a high contrast between light and dark tones. So choose the darker tone if you want to replicate the look of the marble. Check out the pros and cons of marble floors to learn more.

Apply a top coat

This last step is optional. You can apply a top coat to add durability, color and seal the finish. It is best to use 100% acrylic latex paint instead of wax for this step if you want your finished product to last longer. Applying a top coat is best recommended in rooms with high humidity such as bathrooms and kitchens. Otherwise, it’s optional but recommended for a nice finishing touch.

You can also preserve the texture of your Venetian plaster by covering it with a coat of water-based clear sealer. And if you are looking for polished marble, opt for a seal with a semi-gloss or satin finish. You can also choose a matte finish if you want a limestone finish.

Frequently asked questions about applying Venetian plaster

Can you plaster drywall with Venetian plaster?

Yes you can, but keep in mind that you have to overhaul the whole thing. This means that after applying a scratch coat you will need to apply a ‘skim’ coat of drywall over it and sand it smooth.

Can Venetian plaster be applied over paint?

Yes, as long as the paint is well cured. If it doesn’t, the moisture in the air will create bubbles and it won’t look good.

Final thought on applying Venetian plaster

As you can see, applying Venetian plaster requires a bit of skill and extra work, but it’s worth it in terms of quality. Make sure you keep your sealed Venetian plaster clean by dusting the surface weekly with an electrostatic duster.