The term polished plaster refers to the finish used to describe the new and improved form of traditional Italian plasters. The range of decorative plaster finishes is covered under this term of polished plaster. The plaster consists of marble dust, slacked lime etc. to create finishes that resemble marble, limestone or travertine. Venetian plastering falls under this category of polished plaster. The Venetian plasters are wall and ceiling finish that is done using plaster and marble dust to create a smooth and high polished, marble-like decorative finish. It is a safe option for surfaces that can be too expensive to carve or difficult for installing marble panels. You can be creative with Venetian plaster and use natural and synthetic colors to make it tinted or colored as per your style.
Some benefits of Venetian plaster
There are so many benefits of Venetian plaster as wall and decorative finish over other traditional treatments. They have made the plastering process so popular in recent times. The Venetian plaster could be seen on walls and ceilings of structures of late 16th century in Italy and Venice. Today it has evolved using more modern techniques for a better result.
- Durable: One major benefit of using Venetian plaster is that it becomes rock hard after drying. It is also resistant to shrinking and has some flex. So, it can withstand the impact without cracking the wall finishes. This makes the plaster durable and long lasting.
- Versatile: You can use Venetian plastering at almost everywhere including new or existing walls, ceiling, and floor. The plaster can be used on drywall, exterior and interior wall, wood, cement board, brick wall surface, tile, and wood.
- Timeless: It is possible to create the most beautiful and smooth surface out of Venetian plaster. Not only the surface becomes smooth and timeless but can also be modified easily. You can use colored plaster to remove the need for painting.
- Easy to maintain: With Venetian plaster, you can create a wall finish that is very easy to maintain. The walls with such plaster can wet and dry very quickly without any possibility of trapping moisture. With the addition of color, the need for painting can be eliminated and the color will remain fresh for a long time.
- Eco-friendly: All elements used to prepare the Venetian plaster are natural and not toxic. So indoor air is good for the coating of such a plaster. Also, the lime in the plaster has a high PH level and so acts antibacterial, preventing the growth of mold and fungus.
How to apply Venetian plaster?
Before you go for Venetian plastering, you must have the bare minimum tools and materials with you. There is no requirement for many items when you work with Venetian plaster. The minimum items that you must have are:
- Venetian plaster
- Steel trowel or 4- to 6-inch drywall knife
- 400-600 grit sandpaper
- Eye goggles
- Gloves
- Paintbrush
- Roller
- Primer
- Paint tray
- Drop cloth
- Roller cover
- Universal colorants
- Topcoat or paste wax
For Venetian plastering, firstly, clear the room and cover the floor with a drop cloth. Clean the surface with water and fill the holes and make it smooth using a sandpaper. Prime the wall and cover it with flat paint. Mix the ingredients as per the right ratio. After the coat of aggregation, the first coat with white stucco is given. Apply a thin coat of plaster using 4 to 6-inch drywall knife at different lengths and angles. After 7 to 8 hours, the second coat of colored plastered is given using a spatula for creating a marbled effect. Use wider spatula first and then go for a narrow one for creating different effects. Add fillers with contrast colors for new effects. Burnish the surface and if needed give a top coat in the final step.
Author: Layla Flynn
