Venetian Plaster Colors

If plaster is not used to create venetian plaster, then what is Venetian plaster? It is a term which is used by designers and architects to refer to a finishing technique that is used to create a polished stucco finish. The term 'Venetian plaster' means Italian plaster. However, no plaster is used when creating venetian plaster effect on the walls. To create plaster, sand, lime and gypsum are used. Traditionally, only a mix of lime and sand was used. However, to create beautiful venetian plaster on the walls you don't need all these materials. Then, how after all do we make venetian plaster? And what are these venetian plaster colors? Keep reading to find out.

Classic Colors
There is an array of colors to be chosen from when it comes to venetian plaster paint. However, certain colors look more natural while some add a bold look to a room. For a natural effect, go with shades of yellow, orange, brown, gray, grayish-blue and brownish-reds. Choose a dark shade when creating the faux finish. These colors are selected more often as they give the classic marble effect.

Yellows and grayish-blues give a beautiful natural effect. Many people tend to change the intensity of these natural looking colors by adding an extra tint of color. You can choose a natural looking venetian plaster color, to create a cozy yet classy home decor. Colors like light yellow give a neutral look, while bluish-gray tones give a cool effect to the walls. But, if you have a warm color scheme for your home decor, then consider going with brownish-red shades of the color.

New Color Trends
If you want a bold fresh look then consider purple, green, turquoise and red. These colors don't give a natural surface look, but they are the newest trend. People love to color their bedroom walls with lavender or turquoise. Green is a favorite for the living room. Make sure you balance the rest of the home decor by using neutral shades of venetian plaster when choosing a bright color for the walls. Go through venetian plaster color charts of different manufactures to choose the one you like most.

Unique Paint Ideas
You can also try out some unique ideas, by applying stencils on the venetian plaster. Look out for various stencil designs online. You can even buy stencils from the same manufacturer, you got the paint colors and supplies from. You can also mix two, three shades to create special effects on the walls. If you have the skill, you can even consider painting corners of the wall with some intricate and elegant venetian designs.

How to Faux Finish Venetian Plaster?

The things you will need to create a venetian plaster effect are:

• Primer
• Steel Spatulas (large and small)
• Sandpaper (600 grit)
• venetian plaster color (of your choice)
• Finish (satin or semi-gloss)
• Rag
• Newspaper
• Painter's Tape

Step #1: Before you start applying the plaster, you need to prepare the wall. So, first get rid of all the cracking and peeling paint. Then wash the walls to get rid of any mold or mildew. Let the walls completely dry. Now, clean the workspace, and cover the area you don't want paint on, with newspapers and painter's tape. Then seal any gaps, holes or cracks with a sealer, and let it dry for some time. If there are any uneven surfaces, then sand them down for evening of the surface.

Step #2: Then apply a layer of primer. If you want you can use a tinted shade of primer which goes with the plaster color. Let the primer dry overnight. If you live in an area that has high humidity then you will have to let it dry for longer.

Step #3: After the primer layer is done, it is time to apply venetian plaster. There are many colors available, when it comes to venetian plaster paint. However, certain colors look more natural while some add a bold look to the room. For the natural effect, go with shades like yellow, orange, brown, gray, grayish-blue and brownish-red. But, if you want a bold fresh look then consider purple, green or red. Venetian plaster paint tends to dry quickly. It also has a tendency to change color, as it dries. So, when using it, keep it covered with a lid, to prevent drying. Also, buy the best quality paint that you can afford. To apply the paint use a flat steel spatula.

Step #4: Spatulas are available in different sizes. Go for a large flat rectangular one, that you feel comfortable holding. A large sized spatula will make the job of applying the paint faster. Sand down the edges of the spatula, to make the corners softer and prevent any sharp edges on the wall. Also, keep a small spatula handy, to work on the difficult-to-reach corners of the wall.

Step #5: Dip the large spatula in paint, and start working on the wall. Apply the paint in uneven strokes, to avoid making a specific pattern. Use different angles and strokes. This will result in a natural looking surface. Cover up the wall completely. Don't worry about some primer showing from the gaps. Now, let this layer dry for 1-3 hours. Once you notice the paint is evenly lighter in color and the coat is dry, you can start with the second coat.

Step #6: For the second coat follow the above step. But, make sure you even out areas nicely for a smooth surface. You can apply a little more pressure when evening out the paint. Cover the whole wall, and allow this coat to dry. If you want more texture and a subtle look, then consider following a third or even a fourth coat.

Step #7: Allow the last paint coat to dry for one hour only, till it looks like a matte finish. Now, to burnish use a clean large flat spatula. Place it flat on the wall, and start burnishing by moving the spatula in circular motion. Apply a little pressure when doing this. Alternatively, you can also use very fine steel wool on the paint coat. This will create a nice sheen on the surface.

Step #8: The last step is to apply a paint finish. Satin finish is a good choice overall. This finish gives a smooth velvety look, that makes it ideal for rooms like bedrooms and living rooms. However, for bathrooms or spaces which are high traffic zones, use a semi gloss finish. This will protect the high-traffic rooms better. That is because semi-gloss paint can be scrubbed and cleaned.

With the above steps you can create beautiful looking venetian plaster surfaces. To make your walls look even more interesting, consider using these techniques. There are many beautiful stencil designs, that make the walls looks even more Venetian. Use venetian plaster colors which stand out on the walls. To use stencils just place the stencil on the wall, and apply the paint using the spatula and slowly take off the stencil. Allow it to dry, step back and admire your work. Good luck!