Plaster walls create texture, depth and timeless elegance in a room. Although it is not used in new buildings, plaster still is an effective way to cover a wall. Plaster is ideal in additions on old homes or for historic restoration of your old home. Instead of using commercially available mixes, make your own plaster at home. This will ensure that you have a mixture that will be correct in period homes and will make for a more authentic project.
Instructions
1. Brush an even coat of acrylic bonding agent onto your existing wall using a paintbrush. This will allow the plaster to bond to the wall surface. Allow the bonding agent to dry 24 hours.
2. Mix one part lime to 2 1/2 parts sand dry on a work surface using a trowel. Form the mixture into a cone-shaped mound once it is thoroughly mixed.
3. Press a hole down through the center of the mound with the back end of the trowel handle.
4. Fill the hole with water. Mix the lime and sand mixture with the water. Continue adding water slowly until the mix is a batter-like consistency. This is the plaster mix.
5. Trowel an even coat of mixed plaster onto the wall. A typical coat is approximately 3/8 inch thick.
6. Smooth over the surface of the plaster by sliding over it with a wooden float until you are satisfied with the texture of the wall. Allow the wall to dry at least 72 hours before placing anything against it.
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