Plaster

Plaster is for cement-based and traditional plastering projects where a smooth or durable surface is the goal.

You’ll find guides on surface prep, bonding, scratch/brown/finish coats, patching, corner details, sanding and finishing, and how to avoid common issues like cracking, poor adhesion, and uneven texture.

If your project is “make this wall look right again,” this is the category to start with.

Hands wearing gloves applying plaster with a trowel on wall

Interior Limewash on Plaster: Prep, Multi-Coat Technique, and Blotch Fixes

Introduction Interior limewash on plaster is a breathable, traditional finish applied in thin coats to even color and texture. Prep steps include cleaning the wall, dampening the surface, repairing cracks, and applying a compatible breathable primer. Always check the primer and limewash compatibility on the product label or with the manufacturer instructions. Apply multiple thin […]

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Two plastering trowels leaning against a wall

Polished Plaster on Kitchen Backsplashes: Grease Tests, Sealer Choices, and Maintenance Reality

Introduction Polished plaster on kitchen backsplashes is a smooth, glossy finish applied to a prepared wall to create a seamless, durable surface. It’s a hands‑on finish that requires proper substrate prep, mixing, and controlled troweling. If you’re unsure about the prep or finish, check the product label and follow manufacturer directions for compatible substrates and

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Close-up of rough concrete wall with wood formboard texture

Fresco vs Limewash: What’s Actually Possible on Fresh Lime Plaster and What Isn’t

Introduction Fresco and limewash are two ways to finish fresh lime plaster, but they work differently and have different limits. Fresco is typically applied with the plaster while it’s still workable, while limewash is painted on after some setting. What you can actually do depends on the mix, moisture in the wall, and local guidance—check

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Person applying plaster with trowel on drywall seams

Clay Plaster Over Drywall: Primer Selection, Screw Head Telegraphing, and Dent Resistance Upgrades

Introduction Clay plaster over drywall is a finish where a clay-based plaster is applied on standard wallboard after proper priming. Start with a compatibility-friendly primer; check the label to ensure it works with clay plasters and the drywall surface. Apply multiple thin coats, let each dry, and feather the edges for a flat, even surface.

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Rusty plastering trowel with wooden handle on white background

Repairing Historic Plaster With Embedded Wood Trim: Keeping Reveals Crisp Without Cracking

Introduction Repairing historic plaster with embedded wood trim means restoring plaster around the trim while preserving the wood reveals. It’s a practical, hands-on job that requires careful alignment of the reveals and gradual patching. Take your time to resecure loose plaster and check that the trim remains in the same plane. Use patch materials that

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Newly poured smooth concrete floor inside an unfinished room

Plastering Directly Over Concrete Ceilings: Bonding Bridges, Suction Control, and Crack Isolation

Introduction Plastering directly over concrete ceilings means applying plaster straight onto a bare concrete surface without a separate bonding layer. It’s a DIY-friendly approach when the surface is solid and clean, but it needs careful prep. I’ll walk you through what to expect and how to stay on track. Bonding bridges help the plaster grab

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Stone fireplace surrounded by plaster walls and large windows

Clay Plaster in Entryways: Scuff Resistance, Touch-Ups, and Protective Finishes

Introduction Clay plaster in entryways is a clay-based finish applied to walls to create a durable, breathable surface. In busy entry spots you’ll want to understand how it resists scuffs and how touch-ups go when scuffs happen. Check product labels and local rules for any limits on sealing or indoor use before you start. Touch-ups

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Three sheets of sandpaper in red brown and beige on wood

Venetian Plaster Touch-Ups: Avoiding Shiny Spots and Burnish Lines

Introduction Venetian plaster touch-ups are about repairing shine and burnish lines to restore an even, mirror-like finish. This hands-on guide walks you through practical steps and what to watch for on a DIY job. Check the product label and manufacturer instructions for any limitations and recommended mixing or application notes. There are several finishes you

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Close-up of smooth textured plaster wall surface

Clay Plaster Sealer Tests: Why Some Topcoats Darken Color and How to Predict It

Introduction Sealers on clay plaster can darken the surface, and tests reveal when and why. This is a practical, hands-on look at how topcoats behave on plaster and why color shifts happen. Expect results to vary with prep, humidity, and the plaster mix you used. Varathane and similar wipe-on or spray sealers can interact with

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Closeup of white paint roller applying paint on wall

Feathering Plaster Repairs: Avoiding a ‘Picture Frame’ Ridge Under Paint

Introduction Feathering plaster repairs means blending new patch material into the surrounding plaster so there’s no raised ridge under paint. It’s a hands-on fix that helps avoid a visible edge where paint can lift. The goal is a smooth transition that you can sand and feather with basic tools. Start by assessing cracks and holes

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