How to Stucco an Old Fireplace

Knock away any large bricks or stones that jut out of the original fireplace using a chisel and hammer. Continue this process until you have a more even surface with which to work.

Pour the concrete bonder into a mixing pan. Dip your paintbrush into the fortifier and apply it to the fireplace with long strokes. Cover the entire surface of the fireplace with the mixture.

Pour half of a bag of stucco mix into a wheel barrow or large bucket. Slowly add water and mix with a hoe. Mix until it is the consistency of pancake batter. Add more mix and water as needed to prevent the mixture from drying out before you are ready to apply it to the fireplace.

Apply the stucco mixture to the fireplace with a trowel. Make crescent or half moon motions when putting the stucco on the fireplace. Smooth the surface with even strokes, flattening any uneven areas. After you have finished stuccoing the first layer and it starts to dry, score the surface with criss-cross or grid patterns to help the second coat adhere to the base coat. Go over the stucco with a damp sponge to pull the sand to the surface, which also helps the topcoat stick more securely.

Add the second bag of stucco mix and water to the remaining stucco. Add the tinting agent slowly to the stucco. Mix thoroughly, adding more tint until you are satisfied with the final color.

Dip the trowel in the topcoat stucco mixture and apply it to the first coat. Leave the half moon pattern on the fireplace for a textured look. Even out the surface with the edge of the trowel for a smooth finish.