What is known as “Venetian plaster” is a method for applying plaster to walls, raised or curved areas, and ceilings to provide it with a heightened stucco-type appearance and texture. This technique was perfected by European craftsmen in 15th-century Rome around the locality of Venice, Italy, from where it gets its name. It has remained popular into the present and refinements involved in the method and plaster compounds that are used have made it into a process that is available to any modern building or remodelling project.
How it is performed
The principal method used for applying Venetian plaster to an area involves the use of a trowel, putty knife, or spatula to administer the plaster in thin, successive layers that are then allowed to dry applying another layer. The initial layers have to be slightly thinner and smoother so that the plaster will then adhere to an area more effectively with time. As more layers of Venetian plaster in Perth are applied, the aim is not to create a smooth surface but to create patterns and textures in the plaster that are preserved after drying has taken place.
A last thin layer of Venetian plaster is then applied to seal any surface imperfections, and, after drying, the surface is normally gently sanded to polish it and eliminate any imperfections that may lead to chipping or cracking. The final result is a semi-gloss marbleizing outcome where the plaster has subtle colour and texture innovations that change with lighting and alternative angles of view.
The Application of Paint
The use of the Venetian plaster method can also include the use of paint. Instead of or aside from using only plaster, paint can also be mixed onto the wall surface with a trowel at a slight angle in the following layers, giving the finished look one of texture and nuance. Naturally, the use of paint will produce a finer surface than plaster because of its lower viscosity, and thicker latex paints tend to be more effective.
A hybrid technique involves the application of Venetian plaster by itself and then following up with Venetian paint as the final layer. The more time that is applied and spent working repeating patterns into the surface be it with the use of paint or plaster, the much better it will look when completed, and overall the final presentation is one of artificially aging the wall or ceiling area.
Different Styles Down Through Time
Due to the Venetian plaster method being practised for over 500 years, a number of various styles of technique have come into play with their very own histories. The Marmorino look is a favoured Renaissance style that utilised crushed marble and lime putty for areas which allowed for a broad range of texture and colours that resembled the look of natural stone.
Whatever type of Venetian plaster you wish for, it will certainly beautify anywhere it is administered.
