How to Apply Venetian Plaster to a Surface

Clean the surface with a sponge and bucket with diluted TSP substitute (follow instructions on the label). If your surface is not a flat or egg-shell finish, apply primer with a roller or brush. Let dry.

Load the trowel with Venetian plaster. Holding the trowel at a 15- to 30-degree angle, apply a thin layer to the surface using wide, random strokes. Any surface space showing will be covered when you add the second layer of plaster. Let the plaster dry for at least 4 hours.

Apply a second layer of plaster keeping the trowel at a 60- to 90-degree angle (almost flat against the wall). Make long and short strokes; covered all the surface space with the plaster. Smooth any sharp edges in the plaster. Allow plaster to dry for 24 hours.

Apply a topcoat if the surface you’re plastering is in a high-traffic or high-moisture area like a kitchen, bathroom, entry way or family room. Use a clean trowel loaded with topcoat, apply to the dried plaster holding the trowel at a 15- to 30-degree angle. Let the topcoat dry for 24 hours.

Burnish the plaster by sanding with a 400- to 600-grit sandpaper. Use circular motions and sand lightly; don’t take off the plaster, but give it a little sheen. Wipe the dust away with a damp cloth.