How to Apply Textured Plaster: Lace, Swirl and Skip Trowel Finish

How to Apply Textured Plaster - You have just finished plastering your wall and the thought instantly hits you that applying textured plaster would be a great choice. So off you run to the DIY store where you look blankly at the plaster supply shelves. What do you need to apply textured plaster and how hard is it really? The supply list for applying textured plaster is fairly light. The main supplies will include, a pre-mixed texture compound, and open wall space and a trowel or wire brush (depending on the finish you wish to end with).

The Lace Finish

The lace finish is one of the simplest forms of applying textured plaster. This technique requires only the pre-mixed plaster, the trowel and the wire bristled brush. If the wall is primed before adding the plaster, make sure the plaster compound you choose will adhere to primer. If the wall is not primed, the plaster will dry very quickly so make sure to practice on a part of the wall that is inconspicuous.

You will first want to apply a thin layer of the plaster to a section of the wall. Then, using the wire brush, place the bristles firmly onto the wall and press. Remove the brush and allow the points to dry. After drying, you will need to run a gloved hand down the wall to break away and sharp points on the plaster and VOILA, the lace pattern is complete.

The Swirl Finish

The second most popular plaster finish is the swirl finish. This style of applying textured plaster is a bit more difficult, but the look is stellar.

Using the trowel, spread the plaster onto the wall in a swirling motion. It is important to overlap the swirls here and there to create a textured surface. The motion used to created the swirl is a half circle movement of the wrist. These swirls should be small and short. After the first set of swirls has dried, feel free to add a second layer for added beauty.

Key note: It is important not to place too much plaster on the wall when using the swirl technique.

The Skip Trowel Finish

The easiest of all the methods of applying textured plaster is the skip trowel method. This method requires a trowel and the tub of plaster. After spreading the plaster on the wall, starting at one end of the area, perpendicular to the floor, place the trowel on the top of the plaster and apply a small amount of pressure. Then, keeping the pressure even, drag the trowel over the surface. The viscosity of the plaster will cause the trowel to vibrate and a pattern will appear.

Applying a textured plaster to the wall is an acquired taste. Some people love the look of texture, while others believe it to be a thing better left to older home and ceilings. If you love the look, try the technique. You will certainly have fun in the process and you could not pick an easier DIY project.