Venetian plaster is a type of wall decoration that is very popular, which is due to the elegance and attractiveness of its decorative coating. The technology of its execution requires the use of special building tools that will help the master create a beautiful and more even structure of the cladding. For such a wall covering, it is imperative to use a trowel for decorative plaster.

Concept definition

The main tool with which all the necessary manipulations will take place, is a trowel. But it should be noted that in addition to the trowel, other tools are used, for example, a spatula. It is these two tools that are most often used when applying Venetian plaster.

A trowel for Venetian finishing is a type of construction tool used by plasterers when carrying out finishing work that involves applying Venetian plaster to the surface.

To provide the builder with ease and comfort when facing, you need to choose the right tool. In this case, the defining criteria for work will be:

Product quality definition:

• The working surface of the tool must be smooth and high-quality polished. The specified parameter will eliminate or slightly reduce the likelihood of plaster sticking to the trowel.
• The handle in the tool must be designed so that it can be freely held during the entire operation.
• The trowel should be rectangular in shape, since it is these parameters that can provide optimal functionality to the device.
• It is also very important that the edges of the product are rounded to avoid deformation of the soil layer.

Spatula features

Of course, it is best to apply Venetian plaster to the walls with a trowel, but a spatula is also considered a very worthy alternative to this device.

To carry out such facing work, it is necessary to have a steel object, which will have a relatively small size. Some people just find it inconvenient to work with a trowel. There are many options when one device can be replaced by another. That is why it is definitely not worth discounting the spatula.

When choosing a spatula, you must also follow some rules:

Tools for finishing walls with Venetian plaster must be selected very carefully, so the work will be done correctly and comfortably, and will also bring the desired result.

If you are a beginner and poorly versed in this matter, then you need to remember that only a true professional can cope with the task with the use of poor material. The selected trowel must necessarily meet the best requirements that apply to the acquisition of such a tool.

The necks and handles of such tools have different bends, as they are designed for the use of a specific trowel in a certain type of work. Very often, trowel handles made of wood are equipped with an additional metal tip on the back of the device: it is needed to tap the brick in the block and ceramic tiles during the leveling process. On sale you can find designs with removable handles, into which the blades can be fixed in case of wear of the old plates or a certain configuration for the desired technological operation.

Depending on the purpose of the trowel, there can be several types:

Rules for the use of products

Blade length ranges from 75 to 100 mm. A shorter length is well used for jointing vertical masonry joints.

An angular type trowel is used for leveling the corner parts of walls during plastering. Corner devices for decorating the inner and outer corners of the walls go on sale, such a universal device is used to bring out the inner and outer corners.

The trowel filling the seams is convenient to use together with the jointing trowel. Such a tool can hold a supply of grout due to its wide plane. In addition, for more accurate dusting of the joints with grout, there is a raised side along the edge of the working plane, and for working with vertical joints, a slit-like window with a total width of 10 millimeters on the back wall is best suited.

Tool for applying glue to aerated concrete blocks. The advantage of such a tool is undeniable, since it performs several functions at once - applying the right amount of the mixture in one go, uniform application in one movement, as well as high-quality leveling with the comb side of the device giving the desired relief to the applied layer. Such a product is created with different sizes, but the most convenient and at the same time popular is considered to have a width of 100 to 140 millimeters.

The paddles of these construction tools are made from a rigid, rigid sheet with a total thickness of 1.5/2 millimeters, as many of them are designed for mixing and lifting the mortar. A well-made tool is easy and simple to use, as it fits well in the palm of your hand, has a relatively low weight and is designed for a long time of use.

When buying a trowel, you must definitely try it in your hand and make sure that there are no extra protrusions, notches and scuffs on the handle that will not work normally, and can also injure the skin or rub a few calluses. The trowel should sit well in the hand, that is, be balanced and comfortable for long-term use. Trowels, which have an additional overlay on the handle, are in particular demand. Such an addition helps the product to slip in the hand - the handle will fit well in the palm of your hand without stuffing any calluses.

When purchasing such a seemingly simple tool, you need to be careful and attentive. You don’t need to immediately look only at the cheapest device - you can purchase a blade that is of poor quality and bends during operation, quickly covered with a coating of corrosion. In some cases, you can purchase a spatula with a very uncomfortable handle, which will not work normally when performing labor-intensive plastering operations.

Relief Tools

For various techniques of decorative plaster wall finishing need different tools. But it will not be possible to do without the use of a plastering trowel and other tools, since they are well suited for applying solutions and other elements to the surface, as well as for their proper leveling and giving the desired relief.

The volume on a decorative plaster coating can be created by various special products, and in some cases, simply by improvised means. From professional building materials, you can use spatulas for decorative plaster with a serrated and even edge, combs, brushes, brushes, applicators, rollers with various nozzles, special mittens and stamps.

Even simple nets for washing and cleaning dishes can be an excellent way to give plaster an unusual relief.

From improvised tools you can select sponges with different porosity, plastic film, plastic or metal nets for cleaning pans and other household appliances.

The trowel is convenient for leveling plaster and applying it to small areas of walls, used when applying various decorative coatings.

Rollers with different nozzles can create many reliefs. It remains only to choose the one that is most suitable for decorating a particular room. Nevertheless, before starting work with a roller, the mortar must be applied to the wall and leveled with a trowel.

A properly selected trowel for decorative plaster, if it is a convenient and functional tool, is one of the main conditions for achieving an optimal and beautiful result.

Modern industrial technologies and polymer chemistry have greatly facilitated the life of craftsmen who are professionally working in the field of repair or trying to ennoble their home with their own hands.

A little about the decorative component of the plastered surface

Proper plaster can become a real decor item, decorating the whole room.

Hundreds of bright shades and textured patterns of plaster, produced on the basis of acrylic resins and various filler grains, made it possible and achievable to independently perform a decorative coating on external and internal surfaces.

No matter how good the quality of the source materials, the lack of the right tool can significantly worsen the expected result.

The urgent need to modify the usual design of living spaces led to the search for new surfaces and textures. Fundamentally new and already proven building materials began to be used both in the form of original decorative elements, and stylized as old ones, which have been tested for centuries.

Decorative plaster has its own unique visualization due to the color effect and texture of extraordinary structuring. An important point in the implementation of the style decision of the surface is the thickness of the applied layer, and the pattern, or smoothness, which is achieved in this case.

Plastering trowel is the main tool needed for this.

Fillers allow you to create a textured surface

The filler grains that make up the decorative material can be round, oval, of any shape, which creates the necessary pattern when applied to the surface.

The functional purpose of the room or its location on the street dictates the choice of a specific pattern. The filler is a wide range of used components - from waste and glass fragments to granulated marble or polymer grains.

The binder composition, depending on the needs experienced, can be polymeric, silicate or mineral. For plastering walls in different places, hydrophobic coatings or other compounds resistant to various influences are used.

The tool, in particular the spatula for decorative plaster, must correspond to the type of even mineral surface on which the functional and ennobling layer is applied.

Professional tools - selection criteria

To apply a coating that meets certain requirements, the plasterer must have a set of professional tools. It does not matter if the work is carried out according to the nature of the main activity, or it is just a do-it-yourself repair. Only correctly selected and convenient tools are suitable for obtaining a high-quality result.

For walls in your own apartment, the requirements must be no less stringent. Otherwise, the unsatisfactory result obtained will require rework or will remind of itself until the next repair.

Two stages in applying a decorative coating - leveling the base and applying a textured layer provide a working arsenal for the appropriate purpose.

The main tools for this are:

• trowel;
• rule;
• grater;
• stencil;
• improvised means.

Spatulas are made of thin flexible metal

A spatula for Venetian plaster, ideally suited to its purpose, is usually made in the working part of durable metal with rectangular or trapezoidal shapes.

Durable stainless steel ensures its resistance to deformation and prevents rapid abrasion. The elastic properties of the starting material provide both tool life and high-quality process performance.

A trowel for Venetian plaster (trowel) is usually used for applying a decorative composition and is distinguished by the choice of modification components, which are determined upon purchase by the master himself for certain reasons.

- a functional working tool that is used to create a flat surface, remove roughness and bumps.

A grater is usually used inexpensive, but it is better to be guided not by price, but by the functional properties of the device when choosing this tool. A grater is also necessary to bring the textured layer to a finished look.

Ease of use, durability, compliance with the nature of the work being done are the main requirements for tools for applying decorative plaster. This provides a stylistic component and visual beauty of the decorated surface.

Main tool: appearance, necessary properties

Approximately the entire adult half of humanity imagines, at least in general terms, what a trowel is. In the application of decorative plaster, it is a tool on the properties of which the result obtained, its main features, appearance, and visual beauty depend.

Rubbing plaster with a trowel in different ways, you can get interesting textures

The thickness of the applied coating, its relief, the effectiveness of visual design, depends not only on the consistency of the material used, the size of the granules and the thickness of the layer, but also on how professionally it is performed. When choosing a trowel, you need to remember the important role that this tool plays as a final result.

The main plastering trowel is usually made of stainless steel, rectangular or trapezoid no longer than 20 cm. Each master has his own preferences, so tools of this kind can be sold in variations in shape, size and weight.

Calluses from a wooden handle will be less

Particular attention is paid to the handle, which should be functional and comfortable in the palm of your hand. Sometimes it becomes a factor that determines the choice of a particular model. More often than others, preference is given to wood, because this material is of optimal weight, lively and gives pleasure to the touch.

Wooden handle reduces the likelihood of allergies, rubs blisters later. It can be used at any ambient temperature.

In decorative plaster, it is the ability to use a trowel that ensures the thickness of the applied solution, its spatter, material consumption, and the final result of application. The master who skillfully uses the tool knows how to make the right wave of the hand for a certain result, what mistakes should be avoided in the use of the trowel. But even the most skilled plasterer does not rely on professional skills, but attaches great importance to choosing the right tool.

The following parameters are taken into account when determining the required properties:

• material for the manufacture of the main plate;
• the size and size of the blade;
• a certain bending of the scapula;
• handle, version, presence of a metal tip;
• the possibility of changing the plate;
• total weight of the tool;
• ease of use for a certain type of work. For a detailed overview of decorative finishing tools, see this video:

The traditional notion of a plastering trowel is approximately 16x19 cm in size with a spatula pointed downwards and rounded near the handle. This form is considered to be the most functional when throwing mortar or mixtures on the wall, and for leveling them.

Trowel in decorative design

Plastered wall

Various types of coating are created with special tools or improvised devices. Combs, brushes, spatulas, stamps, special mittens, washcloths - all this helps to carry out whimsical design options, create layers of unusual and original visualization.

A simple wall becomes a real work of art, pleasing to the eye. Venetian, stone-like, mosaic, with multi-colored inclusions, structural or textured, creating a decorative effect with embossing or drawing - all this is done on a layer of plaster, which is thrown with a plaster trowel.

Venetian finish

It is carried out with a special tool - with a rectangular plate, slightly rounded at the edges, with a perfectly smooth mirror surface. To apply Venetian plaster, a plastic Venetian trowel with a pointed blade is often used, which is used for grinding artificial marble, and for Venetian plaster, and even for gypsum texture, or textured paint.

Depending on the nature of the work performed, the master selects the required angle of sharpness, dimensions, rigidity, and individual characteristics of the instrument. Many modifications are available to meet different requirements. An overview of trowels for Venetian plaster, see this video:

Decorative plaster is a new, fashionable, but already well-established trend in modern building design. High-quality performance and appearance of such a coating are possible only with the use of appropriate and functional tools.

When working with decorative plasters, the master uses several tools at various stages of decorating, but the main tool is a trowel.

In this article, we will talk about what is important to pay attention to when choosing a tool for a Venetian, what kind of trowels are, consider several brands for the production of tools, and make up the top 3 trowels for a Venetian.

How does a Venetian trowel differ from a regular one?

The name "Venetian trowel" does not mean that only Venetian plasters can be applied with such a tool. Venetian trowel is used to apply plasters such as travertine, microcement, perform various textural effects, in addition, decorators apply decorative paints with a Venetian trowel, for example, paint with the effect of silk Ottocento (Oikos), or Chiffon (Antica Signoria). So how does such a trowel differ from the usual one?

The main thing in such a tool is the metal of the working surface, it must be made of high quality stainless steel and carefully polished. The corners on the working surface are rounded, and the edge of the blade is made under the bevel (chamfer).

In the photo of the trowel of the Italian trademark CO.ME, the places where the chamfer and rounded edges are clearly visible are highlighted in red.

Why is this needed?

Polished stainless steel to ensure that the trowel does not leave black streaks on the Venetian when polished, also good metal makes the trowel both flexible and strong when pressed and resists corrosion.

Rounded corners to avoid material drag.

The beveled edge of the blade is necessary due to the peculiarity of applying the material and polishing; it is this beveled edge that presses and polishes the surface.

In the photo of the 3M trademark trowel, pay attention to which part of the trowel the master smoothes the material.

Sizes and shapes of Venetian trowels

When choosing the size of the trowel, it all depends on your personal preferences, one likes to work with a large trowel, the second with a medium one, everything is individual here. In addition, there are special-shaped Venetian trowels (oval, mini-trowels), for example, for application in hard-to-reach places.

There are 3 main sizes of trowels:

The picture shows Boldrini trowels with rubber and wooden handles in three sizes.

Note: in addition to overall dimensions, trowels differ in blade thickness. The two main thicknesses for Venetian trowels are 0.5 and 0.6 mm. The choice of thickness depends on your preferences and style of work. 0.5mm is more flexible blade, 0.6mm is harder.

Non-standard trowel shapes

In addition to standard trapezoidal and rectangular shapes, there are other forms of trowels, they are used for non-standard tasks, how exactly to apply them is already a matter for a particular master and circumstances, it is important to understand that such tools exist.

Plaster trowel “Trapeze”

Narrow Venetian trowel 200x50mm

Mini trowel for Venetian plaster 40/80*100 mm

Handle and mount material

How the trowel lies in the hand and how comfortable it is to work is no less important than the quality of the metal of the working surface. The final result and satisfaction of the master depend on this, because it is not pleasant to polish the wall for hours with a trowel that rubs the palm, or simply does not lie well in the hand, to put it mildly.

There are two options for the handle material:

Rubber grip

wooden handle

There is no consensus in choosing a handle, each decorator chooses what is more convenient. We only note that the rubber handle is more ergonomic and does not rub the hand as much, and when using a wooden handle, the palm will not sweat.

Trowel Pavan with rubber grip

Trowel CO.ME with wooden handle

Note: pay attention to how the handle is attached to the work surface. These mounts are also available in metal or plastic. Metal is stronger, but the tool becomes heavier with plastic, everything is exactly the opposite.

Trowel with metal fastening

Trowel with plastic fastening

Tool manufacturers and pricing policy

On the Ukrainian market, tools for Venetian plaster are mainly represented by Italian companies, but there are also Turkish, Chinese and German manufacturers. Further we will talk only about the trowels tested by our masters.

Manufacturers of Venetian trowels:

CO.ME (Italy);

Pavan (Italy);

Boldrini (Italy);

Osaka (Spain);

Decor Hasan (Turkey);

3M (Italy);

Oikos (Italy);

Among these manufacturers, we have selected 3 trowels that are most in demand among our customers and receive the best reviews.

3rd place: Trowel for Venetian plaster Pavan 825/I

Stainless steel, polished blade. wooden handle

The price of such a trowel is on average 22 Euro

2nd place: Trowel for Venetian plaster CO.ME 381LU

The trowel is produced in 3 sizes 200x80 mm; 240x100mm; 280x120 mm. Blade thickness 0.6 mm. Rubber grip and aluminum mount.

Unlike the previous trowel, the metal of the working part is more wear-resistant.

Average price 36 Euro

1st place: Trowel for Venetian plaster Pavan 844/I “Gold of Venice”

In the first place, we put the trowel from the Italian company Pavan for the best factory sharpening of the blade edge and for the patented ergonomic handle.

The trowel is supplied in 4 sizes: 200x80 mm; 200x100 mm; 240x100mm; 280x120 mm

and in two blade thicknesses: 0.5 and 0.6 mm

Average price 41 Euro

findings

Pay attention to the quality of metal processing (polishing, edge sharpening), feel how the tool lies in your hand. A good trowel for a Venetian is unlikely to cost less than 20 Euros. When buying a tool cheaper, you run the risk of getting black marks on lime coatings from grinding low-quality trowel metal. Otherwise (size, handle material, manufacturer) it all depends on your personal preferences in work.

Venetian stucco, also known in the old days as ancient or roman stucco, has been used for hundreds of years and has never gone out of style. This may be due to the effect of the deep glossy marble, which helps create a unique and stunning look to the room.

Earlier finishes included slaked lime, with the addition of fine sand and marble dust to form a compound called Marmorino, to which natural pigments were sometimes also added to achieve the preferred color.

The above ingredients were used by the great Italian artists who decorated the magnificent old buildings of the cities. In Venice, where, due to high humidity, it was necessary to find an effective way to treat the walls of palaces, churches, noble houses, castles, as well as the dwellings of rich people, in order to avoid damage by stains and mold. This method of wall covering has proven its relevance today.

The need to keep walls dry and capillary from foundations is less important than in the past, as technologies are now available to help dry out the environment, such as central heating and air conditioning. However, the art of Veneziano stucco is still appreciated by people who love intricate solutions and want their homes to look chic without forgetting the useful properties in providing wall protection.

Since this finish is expensive and difficult, but at the same time popular, it would be useful to know that the technique of applying Venetian plaster consists of treating the walls with a thick plaster finish applied in at least six layers.

The thick finishing layer was motivated in the past by the need for artists to create bas-reliefs or sculptures, and now it allows modern craftsmen to achieve aesthetically beautiful effects.

Applying Venetian plaster is also a great way to add character to dull and bland wall surfaces. This article will help outline the process of turning walls into a classic European look.

Venetian plaster - advantages and properties

The choice of material for wall decoration should be approached carefully, carefully weighing the pros and cons. A prudent owner wants to get a beautiful, practical, durable and, as far as possible, inexpensive option. Venetian plaster meets the requirements of the customer as much as possible:

• Beautiful - the similarity of the finish with natural marble gives a unique effect of elegance and chic;
• Practical - applied wax on the surface adds shine, in addition, the walls can be subjected to wet cleaning;
• Durable - will last for several decades without losing quality and color saturation, if not destroyed by mechanical action;
• Unfortunately, Venetian plaster cannot boast of an affordable price, nevertheless it is worth taking a closer look at it in the store.
• Difficult to apply, with their own hands, the owner of the home will not be able to apply plaster in a quality manner on the first attempt. Particular difficulty arises in difficult areas with bends.

Quite an ideal option for finishing material. Perhaps only two minuses overshadow the purchase. Firstly, the high price, and secondly, it is difficult to apply plaster with your own hands. Of course, it will be possible to apply, but to get excellent quality without a certain experience unlikely to succeed . A specially trained master will help solve the problem. It is best to check his skills based on the reviews of previous customers.

Advantages of Venetian plaster

A beautiful surface can be obtained with any color and tint, on the surface (it is figuratively divided into: smoothed, embossed and with painting). Second, Venetian stucco finishes have consistently been characterized as luxurious and elegant. Thirdly, this material has amazing durability, pliability and adhesion. The average service life is 15-20 years, during this time it will not lose its luster and protective properties.

Material advantages:

Environmental Safety. The main substances, despite modern technical means, are natural ingredients;

The ability to create unique effects. The cross section from the inside of the plaster creates an unusual and each time unique pattern;

Durability and reliability. Venetian plaster composition, even after many years, may not have cracks;

General waxing leads to moisture resistance, has the property of absorbing carbon from the environment, the so-called carbonization. A carbon film is formed on its plane, which in addition forms a protective lining. In addition, the negative impact of temperature fluctuations is compensated (amplitude from -40 to +70);

The Venetian covering of the walls perfectly hides the flaws. Not unimportant is its easy pliability of reconstruction and renewal. This makes it possible to quickly and cost-effectively restore the damaged area.

Technological process

The application of Venetian plaster is one of the most tempting projects for decorating the walls of a house or apartment. However, Venetian plaster is considered not the easiest in terms of the implementation of the application task. Most high-quality Italian plaster surfaces are made by professionals with extensive experience in this field.

Let's not hide, applying Venetian plaster with your own hands is a long, painstaking and extremely complex process. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that this is a creative work with various performance techniques inherent in the masters.

From the variety and direction of movements, a product comes out from under the hand of the master, which is difficult to repeat. Lack of experience is guaranteed to lead to a fiasco and it is impossible to predict what will happen in the end.

Experience and skill required

Skill and practice will help to predict which directions of movements will be needed for the desired result. Experiment and try until you find your style, then proceed to implement the entire project with your own hands.

It should be taken into account that the price of experience is high, since Venetian plaster is not a cheap product. In addition, to make high-quality Venetian plaster will require a lot of time and labor costs, as a rule, more energy will be spent than the implementation of other finishing projects.

After deciding to cover your walls with Venetian plaster, it will be more rational to buy yourself a few sheets of drywall or plywood to practice, gain skills and achieve optimal quality of work. To begin with, the training surface must be sanded, primed and then try to apply a plaster solution.

You should not start finishing right away, there is a high probability that everything will be redone later. In view of the high cost of plaster, it should be carefully and economically spent, otherwise the experience will turn out to be very expensive.

Due to the wide variety of application techniques, the final result will also be varied.

The materials and tools that will be needed in the process are as follows:

• plaster (either pre-painted, or you can add the desired shade yourself);
• polished spatulas with rounded edges of different widths. Spatulas must be new and free from scratches;
• trowel to apply plaster directly and draw veins on it;
• metal grater. It is needed for leveling and grouting the solution;
• brushes with coarse bristles;
• grinding grater;
• large ruler;
• roulette;
• sandpaper;
• containers of different sizes.

Before starting work, you should dress properly (glasses, mask, gloves, etc.).
It is better to remove furniture from the working room, the floor is preferably closed. Using masking tape will protect surfaces that do not need to be covered with paint or plaster.
The walls must be leveled and smooth, pre-filled with latex putty.

On an uneven wall, Venetian plaster will further emphasize the unevenness and possibly increase the material consumption. When the wall is leveled, it should be primed abundantly in several layers. This is necessary to get rid of dust, prevent the formation of fungus and better subsequent adhesion.

Preparation for application and painting

Venetian plaster is sold in buckets and looks like a paste. Initially, the plaster has a white color, to give the desired shade and Venetian look, additives of various colors help, and for a variety of visual effects - decorative additives. You can make the desired color both on your own and by asking a consultant in the store. It is easier to prepare a color scheme with your own hands if you use a drill with a special nozzle.

Sometimes you can find, by opening a bucket, that the plaster is filled with a certain amount of water - this is done to prevent drying. Before use, the water must be drained and knead the composition to a uniform state. After that, dyes can be added to the plaster and mixed thoroughly.

When mixing the composition, you need to pay attention to the solution near the walls of the container, where it may not be painted. Then, you should take a wooden stick and run it along the container a couple of times, collecting the unpainted composition and mix the plaster again. Of the specific nuances, it should be noted that a number of manufacturers advise, after mixing with paint, to wait about 12 hours before use.

When tinting, it must be taken into account that certain compositions, when dried, have a slightly different color from the original version, they are usually lighter. To specifically determine what the final color will be, you must first make samples - apply a few strokes to any surface, and wait for it to dry, after which you can find out what tone the Venetian plaster will acquire.

After viewing the final version, you can either dilute the resulting composition with a clean composition or tint more. It must be remembered that manually tinting the composition of the same color will be impossible to achieve. Each batch will have a different tone from the previous one. Consequently, Venetian plaster is painted in an amount that exceeds the planned consumption by 10% - let it be better to have a surplus than not enough.

The procedure for applying plaster

Before you start applying plaster, you must first make sure that the wall is properly primed. If there is an intention to use shaded plaster, it is recommended to paint the primer in the same color. This will help prevent some of the formation of white spots.

Step 1: First layer

After the preparatory work has been successfully completed, you can begin to apply Venetian plaster directly. Using a steel trowel, thin layers of Venetian plaster are applied to the wall. These layers serve as the main base for subsequent layers. When performing this step, care should be taken to hold the spatula at a ninety degree angle.

Also, don't try to cover too much wall space at once. It is best if the Venetian plaster is applied to a small part of the wall surface at a time and make sure that the layers are as thin as possible. When working with a spatula, care should be taken to periodically clean it using a bucket of warm water, thereby ensuring that no unsightly marks remain after the plaster has dried.

Once you have finished applying the first coat, allow it to dry for at least four hours before proceeding to the next step. After the base coat has dried, you can go over the surface with sandpaper to make it easier to apply the next coat and get rid of any air bubbles that may have formed during the process.

Step 2: Second coat of Venetian plaster

Now that the wall is level and smooth, you can start applying the second thin layer of Venetian plaster. The process is much the same as applying the initial coat, one small portion of the wall surface is slowly covered with Venetian in random strokes in various directions.

You need to try so that the first touch with a spatula is subsequently not visible. At this stage, it is not necessary to achieve uniformity, the whole point lies in the randomness of directions, different shapes, curved lines, meanders, so that there is a similarity as in natural marble. This layer can be the last, but if you think the wall needs more layers, feel free to add more.

You just need to make sure that enough time has passed for drying. Venetian plaster can be ventilated and dried for up to ten hours, it will depend on the internal temperature, the presence of humidity and on the composition itself. After the layer has dried, it should be rubbed with a grater, which will smooth out the bumps.

Step 3: Apply the finishing touches

The final layer should be applied with a thin spatula, which will give a transparent effect. A small amount of the composition on the spatula is applied to the surface, with a strong pressure on the spatula, part of the composition from the wall is collected back. It is important to monitor the evenness of the application. Minor irregularities will be removed with grout.

Step 4: Grout

The last applied layer, the thinnest, does not need to dry completely. About an hour after the end of the work on applying the layer, ironing should begin. This happens with the help of a trowel. It must be clean and free of any defects. With circular movements, the surface of the wall is rubbed and smoothed. At this stage, a pattern and shine begins to form.

Little by little, “depth” is acquired, like real marble, and layering appears. In the process of ironing, care must be taken so that scratches do not appear. To avoid this kind of trouble, the trowel must be constantly cleaned and try not to touch the surface with its edges.

A small area is cultivated at a time until the pattern appears, then you can move to the next area, watching the blurring of the border between these parts. This work can be considered the last stage. If Venetian plaster was applied in the bathroom or kitchen, the walls should also be waxed.

Step 5: Wax

After complete drying (about 12-15 hours), wax can be applied. After lightly wetting the surface of a wide spatula, a thin layer of wax is applied over the finished plaster. Ideally, a layer of wax is applied thinly, but without touching the wall with the blade. You need to leave a very thin film. After an hour, you can start polishing the wax to your desired gloss level. The wax will dry in the region of one and a half weeks, after which the wall can be washed.

Other application methods

Using a spatula or trowel for plaster work is one of the most common methods. However, this requires caution. By holding the trowel at a 5 degree angle, you can simply apply Venetian plaster to the wall. This needs to be done as evenly as possible, which can be difficult. You need to have a steady hand and a lot of patience.

When the plaster is almost completely dry, you can smooth it a little with a spatula. You can also use a little sandpaper to get a smoother effect. It is very important to only use sandpaper when the plaster is already dry, otherwise it will simply damage the work. Finally, after cleaning the surface, a fine finish is added.

Applying Venetian plaster with a roller

Using a roller can easily make the job messy, but it can also get the job done quickly once the technique has been mastered. First you need to mix water with plaster. One part of water is used for 2.5 parts of plaster. Stir the mixture until it becomes a homogeneous mass.

The roller is dipped into the mix and simply applied to the wall. Start better with the middle layer. Before it dries completely, you can smooth the surface with a spatula as mentioned earlier. Again, the spatula should be used at a 5 degree angle.

Sealing plaster

Sealing plaster is an important part of the job. This work is easier than applying the plaster itself. It is designed to preserve Venetian plaster and extend its durability. A water-based sealant should be used and applied to the entire wall with a roller. It can also be sprayed onto the wall with appropriate equipment.

When the first coat of sealant is completely dry, a second coat should be applied for additional protection. The second coat should dry for a few minutes and then any excess sealant should be removed with a cloth. This is important, because otherwise it can leave white streaks and Venetian plaster will lose its glamor.

Summing up:

Venetian plaster has been known since the Middle Ages. Its use allows you to create surfaces that resemble stones of natural origin in their texture. With the help of this finishing material, an imitation of a marble coating is created. When the work is done by professionals, a fake is almost impossible to distinguish from the original.

Over the past century, the composition of the plaster has changed little. True, synthetic dyes are used instead of mineral dyes, and lime, which performed a binding function, replaced acrylic and other substances based on it. As for the main components, they remained the same - this is marble dust with the addition of other minerals, crushed to a similar state.

In addition to the composition, the quality of grinding is also important for plaster, which should be as fine as possible. Venetian plaster can be bought completely ready for use. It resembles a paste and has the density of sour cream. If desired, this finishing material can be purchased in dry form and act in accordance with the instructions. It is worth noting that it will be possible to stir the plaster to a homogeneous state if you use a construction mixer.

This type belongs to the category of expensive finishing materials. When it is applied to the wall, all the requirements of the technology must be observed. Ignorance or non-observance of them will not allow you to get that amazing effect that is guaranteed if you use the services of professional craftsmen.

How to work with Venetian plaster?

The first and very important stage of work is the preparation of the surface for processing. During this process, the walls are leveled, and their condition is brought to perfection. When using Venetian plaster, even the smallest cracks are unacceptable, which will become more noticeable after applying a decorative layer. The surface is primed, and after it dries, the plaster is applied.

Work is carried out on a small section of the wall, not exceeding 1 sq.m. Masks are applied randomly with varying degrees of pressure. This technology will provide an illusory perception of the depth of the material.

Venetian plaster is applied in several thin layers. The process of creating a decorative coating based on this material makes it possible to choose its color, pattern, as well as glossy or matte texture.

Complete hardening of the plaster occurs within 7-8 days. During this time, the material absorbs carbon dioxide from the environment, on the basis of which a protective layer of the coating is formed.

Let's consolidate our knowledge of Venetian plaster

Venetian plaster comes to us from the era of Roman antiquity and the Renaissance. It gives personality to any room, and its artistic charm is due not only to its ancient origins, but also to the fact that many of the great Italian artists such as Raphael used this decorative plaster as the basis of their frescoes.

1. Real Venetian stucco is a lime base mixed with marble powder. The final shine is made with wax. Instead of marble, you can use other decorative stones - for example, granite, quartz, onyx or malachite, but these options are rare due to the high price. Natural ingredients allow the wall to "breathe" and protect it from bacteria and fungi. Wax plaster makes gypsum more stable and is suitable for cleaning with water. It is very simple, just like cleaning carpets with a vacuum cleaner.

2. The texture of Venetian plaster is a play of light. Properly inserted, it creates the illusion of transparency and inner flame. The effect is due to the glare of the sun and light fixtures falling on three layers of plaster and reinforced with a wax coating.

4. However, if you just take a mixture of Venetian plaster and then apply it to the wall, you are unlikely to get the same impression. Coating requires an experienced hand. Each layer is applied to previous spots and then smoothed out. To achieve a unique visual effect, the coating must be applied by a master, a true specialist in Venetian plaster. Unfortunately, this greatly increases the cost of its final price.

3. Venetian plaster is for interior use only. Otherwise, cold, rain and wind will quickly damage, thus preventing outdoor use. The interior decoration in your home will have a long life and ease of maintenance. Therefore, Venetian plaster is suitable not only for decorating the walls of a house, but also for the interior of fine restaurants, cafes and hotels.

4. The advantages of Venetian plaster: a unique visual effect. In addition, gypsum does not emit harmful substances, because it has a natural composition.

5. Disadvantages of Venetian plaster: high cost and difficult application. The need for careful surface preparation - it must be perfectly smooth.

(Last Updated On: 11/07/2017)

The rule of modern decoration says that “luxury” does not mean “expensive”. Of course, no one forbids throwing out big money for exclusive materials, but you can get by with much less damage to the budget - for example, Venetian plaster is very inexpensive and quite easy to use, at the same time, when applied correctly, it very accurately repeats the pattern and texture of marble and can be used to finish almost any surface. To work with this material, you do not need any complex tool, you only need a trowel (trowel) for Venetian plaster. You can buy it in any large store of finishing materials, in the assortment of which there is plaster itself. And yet, in order to choose the right trowel, you need to know the features of this tool.

In its shape, it is similar to ordinary trowels with a pressing surface, the main external difference is rounded corners. This form allows you to qualitatively level the finish surface without leaving any scratches on it, which is very important for recreating the appearance of a marble finish.

The basis for the manufacture of the working surface is high-quality steel, resistant to wear and polished to an almost mirror finish. You also need to pay attention to the flexibility of the tool - the right trowel for Venetian plaster should be flexible enough.

A comfortable handle is also of great importance - it should be made of quality materials, have a comfortable shape and fit well in the hand. Do not underestimate this point - working with Venetian plaster can take a very long time, and if after half an hour you fill the calluses, then you won’t have to talk about any quality and productivity.

When a spatula is more convenient than a trowel

It is widely believed that to work with Venetian plaster, it is enough to stock up on a set of trowels of different widths - this, as some experts say, will be quite enough. However, you need to understand that everyone has their own characteristics and preferences, and if it is more convenient for you to work with spatulas, then it is better to give preference to spatulas. After all, it is convenient to apply only the first layer of plaster with a wide trowel, for subsequent layers you need to use a very thin tool, the trowel for such work should be no wider than 5 centimeters - whether such a tool will be convenient.

Working with Venetian plaster is quite simple, it is applied in almost the same way as putty. That is why it will be more familiar to work with a spatula for many - probably every home master has come across with puttying the walls.

As for the requirements for the spatula, they are the same as for the trowel:

• it must be made of polished stainless steel;
• should be flexible enough;
• must be durable.

The subtleties of working with the tool

When everything you need to finish the walls with Venetian plaster is acquired, you can get to work. On a sufficiently wide trowel we collect plaster and apply it to the surface with wide arc strokes. The trowel must be run at the maximum possible acute angle, in which case the puttied and primed surface will remain intact.

After that, using narrow spatulas, we apply the next layer of plaster to the wall. You should not immediately spread a lot of material on the wall, it is better and easier to operate in small portions, because they need to be spread very tightly and evenly over the surface. Strokes can overlap each other, forming color transitions, this is even better - after grinding, such a surface will look more natural.