Maybe no surface evokes the romance of old-world Europe at the manner that Venetian plaster does. This centuries-old technique involves the use of several thin coats of plaster to create a nuanced depth of color and a burnished glow. Its prevalence resurged from the 1990s with the Tuscan decorating fashion, and it’s held steady since then as a way to lend richness and patina to ordinary walls. Here is what you want to understand about this time-honored technique.
Wendi Young Design
The basics: Venetian plaster is a surfacing method that dates back to the Roman Empire. It originated as a method to replicate the look of expensive stones like marble and granite.
Traditionally, the procedure involves a plaster made with slaked lime, ground marble and pigments, troweled onto walls and polished with wax into a rich sheen. Although the current Venetian plaster products often use synthetic substances, their depth and luster is still the center of their appeal.
Industry purists contend that in order to be known as Venetian plaster, the surface has to adhere to the classic composition and methods of application, which require professional experience. However, many experts are satisfied with contemporary materials and newer techniques that give themselves to the DIY ethos.
Tiffany Eastman Interiors
Where to apply it : Generally, Venetian plaster can go over drywall, paint, tile, wood or brick. It’s often utilized in kitchens and baths because of its moisture-resistant tendencies.
Surfaces need to be pristine before application — no flaking paint chips or cracks. Although the plaster can be applied to particular textured surfaces, others need to get skim-coated ahead of time.
Molto Bene Studios
Great to know: Venetian plaster is both lasting and long-wearing, so it could stand up to heavy usage. The colours do not fade over time, so you won’t have to repaint; you will simply need to apply a fresh coat of wax every couple of years to keep it glossy. Dust and dirt will not permeate this, and you can clean it easily by wiping with a dry cloth.
Due to its all-natural composition, authentic Venetian plaster is eco friendly and does not emit harmful VOCs or other chemicals. Additionally, lime has natural antibacterial properties, so it repels mold and mildew.
One drawback: Venetian plaster can crack occasionally (though not as much as traditional plaster), especially in humid climates. The good news is that the cracks are not usually tough to repair.
McClellan Architects
What you will pay: achieved by a professional, a decorative finish on a prepared substrate generally costs between $5 and $10 per square foot. Application of the plaster itself ranges from $8 to $30 and up per square foot. More complicated structures, like columns, cost.
Most major paint manufacturers supply a Venetian plaster compound made to recreate this look. Expect to pay about $30 to $40 per gallon. Home facilities also supply paintable Venetian plaster–look backgrounds for a much more affordable, if less real, option.
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