Venetian plaster is a good technique to use if you need to cover cracks or imperfections on the walls. It's achieved in a three-part process: First, you apply a thin layer of plaster with a small trowel or putty knife, smooth it with a large trowel and let it dry. Second, with the small trowel you apply second layer of plaster in x-pattern and let it dry. Finally, you smooth the layers with the large trowel. When you're finished you may wish to sand the surface to add a subtle sheen. Debbie prepares the room by taping around all the molding, mirrors and ceiling. Then she's ready to get started. Venetian Plaster Materials:
Drop cloth
Painter's tape
Primer (tinted the same color as the plaster)
Venetian plaster
Wide trowel
Putty knife
Electric hand sander Steps: Part One - Wearing gloves, use the small trowel or putty knife to apply plaster to a section of wall.
- Use the large trowel to smooth the plaster (figure A). The layer should be very thin; remember that this process involves building up layers of plaster, and for the first layer it needs to be thin and smooth. Avoid any bulging or clumping at this step.
- Let the plaster dry completely -- it must be very dry between steps.
Part Two Once again using the small trowel, begin applying a second thin coat of plaster, working in x-shaped motions and leaving the walls textured, not smooth (figure B). Let it dry completely. Part Three With the large trowel, apply a final thin layer of plaster, smoothing it over the second layer. It will help fill in the surface while maintaining the texture (figure C). When the third layer has dried completely, use a hand sander and 100-grit sandpaper to sand the wall in an up-and-down motion. Use a very light touch, just enough pressure to polish the top coat. You should start to see a slight variation in the sheen of the plaster. Safety tip: Be sure to wear a dust mask and eye protection when using a sander.
RESOURCES :
The Complete Surfaces and Finishes Directory: Paint, Plaster and More!
Model: 0823050300
Author: Emma Scattergood
(2001)
To order this title from Amazon.com, click here.
Watson-Guptill Publications
Website: www.watsonguptill.com
Debbie Travis' Decorating Solutions: More than 65 Paint and Plaster Finishes. . .
ISBN: 0609602519
Author: Debbie Travis
Order this title from Amazon.com.
Paint Recipes: A Step-by-Step Guide to Colors and Finishes for the Home
Model: 0811811735
Author: Liz Wagstaff
Chronicle Books
Chronicle Publishing Company
Website: www.chroniclebooks.com
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