How to Mix a Powdered Hard Coat for Drywall

A layer of hardcoat over drywall adds durability and a smooth or textured surface for painting. Without it, the drywall looks unfinished with seams and spackle patches showing through. Plaster fills cracks and holes in drywall, and acts as a hardcoat when mixed to a creamier, less-stiff consistency. Look for patching plaster at any hardware store or home and garden center.

5-gallon bucket
Dust mask or respirator
Rubber gloves
Plaster powder
Wooden stir stick
Plaster trowel or brush

Instructions

- 1
  Fill the bucket with 2 gallons of cold, clean water.
- 2
  Wear a dust mask or respirator and a pair of rubber gloves.
- 3
  Open the plaster container and pull out a generous handful. Sprinkle the plaster into the water. Repeat three times for four handfuls.
- 4
  Mix the plaster and water in the bucket with your gloved hands or a wooden stirring stick.
- 5
  Check the plaster’s consistency. If it's watery or thin, add more plaster a handful at a time. The texture should be similar to room-temperature butter.
- 6
  Add a small amount of water to the plaster is too thick.
- 7
  Apply the plaster to the drywall with a trowel or brush immediately after mixing.

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