How to Make Venitian Plaster

Venetian plaster refers to a faux wall finish technique. After applying plaster using this technique, your walls will appear rustic, as though they are made from marble or stone. Venetians popularized the technique in the 16th century as a light-weight alternative to hard stone. This technique requires only a mixture of plaster and pigment, although prepackaged Venetian plasters contain acrylics and polymers to increase durability. Optional finishing touches include waxing and polishing to achieve water-resistance and a surface sheen.

Primer
Roller brush and pan
Plaster
Universal colorant
Paint mixing stick
Steel trowel
4-inch blade
Fine steel wool
Furniture wax
Cotton cloth

Instructions

- 1
  Paint the wall to be plastered with primer.
- 2
  Mix your choice of colorant into the plaster.
- 3
  Scoop a blob of plaster into the trowel.
- 4
  Apply a thick coat of plaster with the trowel at a 45-degree angle starting from one corner of the wall.
- 5
  Continue applying a thick coat until the entire wall is covered.
- 6
  Allow to dry completely.
- 7
  Scrape any clumps off with the 4-inch blade at a narrow angle from the wall.
- 8
  Apply a second, thinner coat. Cover the entire wall and allow to dry. Scrape any clumps off with the 4-inch blade. Repeat this step several times until you achieve the desired thickness.
- 9
  Smooth the wall with fine steel wool, working in a circular motion.
- 10
  Apply a thin coat of liquid furniture wax with the steel trowel for increased water resistance.
- 11
  Allow the wax to dry, and buff with a clean cotton cloth.

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