It is quite understandable that many owners of private houses want to give their home a completely unique look. They come to the aid of relief plasters, which are made from solutions based on different bases and are applied to the surfaces of walls either with special tools, or with improvised, sometimes completely unexpected objects, depending on what effect is planned to be obtained.
Decorative plaster walls with your own hands is great way stand out from the general background. Before deciding on the choice of the desired pattern and the technique for its reproduction, it is necessary to consider various options finishing. After the desired relief has been determined, it is advisable to conduct a practical lesson and plaster it in accordance with the plan.
Some techniques for working with decorative plaster can be called art, since three-dimensional paintings with various subjects are molded from it, which can become an exclusive decoration for the wall of an apartment or a country mansion. Experienced craftsmen, using them, create real works from ordinary plaster mass, which set the style for the entire design of the room or facade.
Decorative plaster - what is it?
For a long time, decorative plaster has been used to decorate walls, and with changes in interior styles, its plot patterns and relief changed, becoming more complex or, conversely, simplifying for the sake of fashion. It has not lost its relevance to this day - in our time, with the help of a similar technology, finishing of both the facade parts of buildings and the interior walls of the room is carried out.
Most often, a plaster coating is used, which, in addition to being decorative, also serves protective function, preventing moisture and dust from penetrating the main wall.
For interior walls, finishing with a uniform pattern or a relief plot panel can be used. By choosing a relief in the form of a painting to decorate your home, you can be sure that it will be guaranteed to be original, since it is almost impossible to depict the same pattern twice in exactly the same way using this technique.
Reliefs applied to the wall are usually covered with one or more shades of color, which give them a deeper dimension. If desired, when you get tired of the original color of the decorative plaster, you can easily change it to another. Moreover, this process can be carried out both on a uniform coating and on a panel. Paint is applied to relief panels with a brush and sponge, and on a uniform surface using a spray gun or roller.
Decorative plaster can have a deep relief, which is called bas-relief - it protrudes above the wall surface by 8÷15 mm, or it can be almost smooth and stand out only in color. Today in construction stores you can find compositions that can form a relief surface even when applied with an ordinary spatula, and for some of them special attachments are used that are installed on rollers. They are able to imitate tree bark, tall grass, layered rocks and many other three-dimensional patterns.
The plaster mixtures used to create the relief are quite plastic. They are easy to apply to a previously prepared wall surface and transform into various designs.
Basics of technology for applying textured plaster
Work on finishing walls with decorative plaster is carried out in stages, in accordance with the requirements of the developed technology. It includes several stages.
- The first step is to determine the design that will decorate the walls, as well as the tools necessary to reproduce it. The relief sample should be in front of your eyes while working so that you can follow its contours. This is especially important if the plot option of the panel is chosen.
- Next, you need to prepare the tools that will be used to mix the plaster composition, apply it to the wall and create a relief pattern.
- When everything is ready, you can move on to preparing the walls. This process is carried out almost identically for both façade and interior walls - it includes cleaning the surfaces of old coatings, rough alignment, and then prime them. It is better to choose a primer composition with antiseptic additives, then the walls will be protected from damage by mold, mildew, moss, etc., as well as from the creation of nests by insects.
- Then a starting leveling layer of plaster is applied to the prepared, well-dried surface - it will become the basis for the textured finishing layer.
- After the starting layer has dried well, the wall surface is recommended, once again, to create higher adhesion between the layers of the plaster composition.
- The next step, again, after the soil has completely dried, is applied finishing textured plaster, from which the relief is formed. In some of the techniques used, the upper part of the applied plaster is leveled into one plane, and textured depressions remain inside, creating a uniform but chaotic relief.
- When reproducing some designs, it is necessary to apply several layers of decorative plaster, and in this case, each of them requires good drying.
- Next, if the color was not added to the plaster mixture, the paint is applied on top of the textured layer. If the surface is given a uniform pattern with indentations, then this process is best carried out using a spray gun. If you plan to paint unevenly, you can use a sponge or brush for tinting. The paint should be applied so that it emphasizes the beauty of the relief of the decorative coating. When tinting a panel, the paint is applied in several stages to create a visual perception of its depth.
When performing work, you should strictly follow the step-by-step instructions. Making any changes to the relief manufacturing technology can have a bad effect on the design result. Therefore, there is no need to rush - you need to thoroughly dry each of the layers, observing their order. It is better to immediately prepare for the fact that it will take more than one day to create a high-quality relief wall covering.
Now that we know general principles decorating a wall by applying decorative relief plaster to it, it makes sense to consider the tools that can be used for these technological operations.
decorative plaster
Tools for working with relief plaster
When decorating a wall with decorative plaster and using it to form a relief pattern, use the following tools:
- For kneading plaster mortar You will need a drill and a mixer attachment. With their help, you can easily and quickly enough, without much effort, make the mixture plastic and homogeneous.
- Spatulas of various sizes - these tools can be called the main ones when working with any plaster, since you cannot do without them when applying any of the finishing layers.
- or a trowel are also quite often used to cover surfaces with plaster solutions.
- A special glove that is used both for creating relief and for coloring it.
- Brush with hard or soft bristles, plastic film, latex gloves, sponge or plastic mesh for dish washing.
- Using a roller and rubber attachments can be called the most popular way to make a wall in relief. The variety of these devices allows you to choose one of the many textured patterns offered by the manufacturer.
In addition, using this technique, the work goes faster, and the print on the wall turns out neat and aesthetic, however, such reliefs cannot be called exclusive. Roller attachments can have patterns of plant patterns, waves, various curls, geometric shapes and others.
Reliefs that imitate the texture of leather or tree bark, as well as other natural materials, look especially impressive.
Nozzles can create a textured pattern located vertically or horizontally, chaotically or perfectly correctly - this factor will depend on the preference of the owner of the home being finished.
Textured plaster expands the possibilities of transforming walls, and the presence of a variety of tools opens up scope for creating numerous drawings. It should be noted that craftsmen who professionally engage in this art, when making reliefs, often use completely unexpected tools and household items, for example, wood chisels, manicure spatulas, or even ordinary teaspoons.
Materials for decorative plaster
In addition to properly selected tools, it is necessary to choose the optimal plaster composition. The assortment is quite wide, since many well-known manufacturing companies offer special ones that allow you to easily transform the facades and premises of houses.
Starting plaster
In addition to the decorative mixture, you need to purchase starting plaster, with which you can level the surface of the wall, preparing it for relief decoration. For this purpose, it is better to purchase formulations made on the same basis as finishing, then we can say with confidence that good adhesion will be created between the base and the outer plaster layer. So, for the starting, leveling layer, the following are suitable:
- Starting plaster on a gypsum basis. A distinctive feature of this mixture is the short time before setting begins, so you need to work with it very quickly. If you have no experience in leveling walls, then it is better to choose a mixture that will provide the opportunity for longer work.
- For example, a solution on cement based Perfect for both experienced craftsmen and beginners. You can buy it ready-made, or make it yourself from cement and well-sifted sand, taken in a ratio of 1:3. To make the homemade mixture more flexible, PVA glue or liquid soap is often added to it. Thanks to these components, the solution will become softer and at the same time “sticky” to the walls, and will be easy to work with.
- Sometimes clay is used for the starting layer, which can also be purchased at a hardware store in already prepared form. More often clay mortar used for plastering wooden surface, but lately craftsmen still prefer more modern materials for work. Although clay has numerous positive qualities, such as elasticity, good adhesion to the surface, environmental friendliness, and in addition, it is a “breathable” material.
Decorative plaster compositions
For decorative finishing, special plaster compositions are used, which are also made on different bases. They are intended for a variety of relief patterns, so some of them are equipped with various additives. On the packaging, the manufacturer indicates the name of the relief for which this mixture is intended, since solid crumbs from different materials can be used as additives, having large and fine fractions and giving different finishing effects.
The table below shows some types of decorative plaster, which are most often used to decorate the façade of a house and interior walls.
| Appearance of packaging | Relief pattern created on the wall | The basis of decorative plaster | Additive fraction size, mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mineral "Ceresit CT 35" | "Bark beetle" 2.5÷3.5 |
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| Mineral "Ceresit CT 137" | "Pebble" 1.0÷2.5 |
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| Polymer "Ceresit CT 77" | Mosaic 0.8÷2.0 |
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| Acrylic "Ceresit CT 60, ST 63, ST 64" | "Pebble" 1.5÷2.5; "bark beetle" 2.0÷3.0 |
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| Silicate-silicone "Ceresit CT 175" | "Pebble" 1.5÷2.0; "bark beetle" 2,0 |
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| Silicate "Ceresit CT 73" | "Pebble" 1.5÷2.5; "bark beetle" 2,0 |
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| Textured acrylic "Capital" | "Quartz coat" | ||
| White cement based "Master" | "Lamb" 2,0 |
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| Acrylic "Optimist-Elite" | "Venetian plaster" white thick homogeneous paste |
As you can see from the table presented, plaster mixtures are produced in a dry and pasty state. Ready-made pastes, diluted to the desired consistency, will usually cost slightly more than dry mixtures, but they are much easier to use, since you do not have to calculate the proportions when mixing.
Ready-to-use plasters can be used immediately after the primer has dried on the prepared wall. Upon completion of the work, the remainder of the mixture is closed in a packaging bucket, and during the next stage, the paste can be reused, since it can be stored for quite a long time in a closed state.
If you want to create your own plaster, you can use the recipes given in the table below as a basis:
| Components of the solution | Appearance and color of plaster | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White marble effect | Yellow marble | Under red granite | Under gray granite | |
| Quantity in parts by volume | ||||
| Portland cement M400 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Lime dough | 0.5 | 0.25 | 0.1 | 0.1 |
| Marble flour | 0.5 | 0.25 | - | - |
| Marble chips | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Mica (based on cement volume) | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.5 |
| Pigment in % by weight of cement | - | Ocher 3÷5 | Iron minium 5÷10 | Manganese peroxide 1÷5 |
Primers
Wall priming products used on preparatory stage, are sold in paste and liquid consistency.
plaster
- To treat the wall before applying the starting layer, it is recommended to use liquid compounds deep penetration, including antiseptic additives.
- After the starting plaster has dried, it should also be primed, thereby creating a good basis for the finishing decorative layer. For this process, it is best to use a primer that has a thicker, closer to paste-like consistency.
Each layer applied to the wall must be completely dried, and only after that the next one can be applied. Otherwise, the plaster may begin to crack or peel off the surface.
Coloring compositions for decorative plaster
They can be tinted, or they can be painted before starting work. Sometimes the color is added by the manufacturer to the plaster kit; in other cases, color additives are purchased separately and are also added to the paste or dry mixture before mixing or applying it.
Another option for giving finished decorative plaster the desired color is to paint it using a spray gun, roller or brush. In this case, a composition of white or gray, and then, after it dries, it is given a uniform or voluminous coloring.
To paint textured plaster applied to the wall, paints made at water based– these are emulsion and water-dispersion. Such paints are produced in various colors, but if you wish, you can give them a shade yourself by purchasing separately a white “base” and the color you like. They are mixed immediately before being applied to the wall, and in this case you can achieve a darker or, conversely, lighter shade, which will help give volume and depth to the pattern on the wall.
Varnish for decorative plaster
For textured plasters that have shallow relief or a relatively smooth surface structure, a varnish or wax protective decorative coating is usually used.
Varnishes can be matte or glossy, and can significantly enrich the color of the wall decoration. Thanks to even one layer of varnish, the plaster will retain its original appearance much longer.
In some cases, to achieve the desired effect, it is better to apply the varnish to the wall surface in several layers. For example, if an imitation of polished stone or crocodile skin is reproduced on the wall.
Wax is most often used as protective agent for Venetian plaster, which can acquire a matte or even mirror shine after application. The wax is odorless and environmentally friendly pure material. It is able to protect the wall covering from dust and yellowing, and in addition, it creates a water-repellent layer, and at the same time has good vapor permeability, that is, the walls do not lose the ability to “breathe”. Thanks to these qualities, wax coating can be used in living rooms and rooms with high humidity.
The wax is produced in a colorless version and preserves the color of decorative plaster in its original state. In addition, it can be tinted with metal pigments or pearlescent additives. For example, CERA wax, shown in the illustration, is produced in three color options - colorless, silver and gold, which allows you to enrich the decorative finish with a pleasant soft sheen.
Masking tape
In some finishing works You can't do without using masking tape. It is used to protect adjacent surfaces when working on one of them, as well as in cases where it is necessary to separate different textured or color patterns from each other. The tape easily sticks to any surface and is removed without leaving marks. It has a low price, so in any case, stocking up on all the materials necessary for finishing, it is worth purchasing as an auxiliary tool.
When purchasing any finishing materials, it is very important to pay attention to the manufacturer’s specifications, which are located on the packaging, about what kind of work they are intended for, internal or external. Many formulations for external use are also well suited for finishing the walls of premises, but materials for internal use when applied to the façade, unfortunately, they will not last long.
Versailles plaster
Preparing wall surfaces
Now, having figured out how to choose a material and what tools you will need for the job, you can move on to considering the process of preparing walls for applying plaster solutions.
Preliminary preparation of wall surfaces
To get a high-quality result, it is very important to thoroughly clean the wall of old coatings, and similar actions are performed both on external and internal walls. It is necessary to remove old wallpaper, paint or whitewash from them, otherwise the starting layer of plaster will have insufficient adhesion to the surface.
The main activities for preparing wall surfaces are shown in the table below:
| Illustration | |
|---|---|
 | Removing the old layer of plaster from the walls. This process is especially important to carry out very carefully if the old decorative coating begins to peel off from the main surface. If you need to remove a thin layer of plaster, then for this purpose you can use a grinding machine or a construction float with a coarse-grained float installed on it. sandpaper. |
 | If the walls are covered with wallpaper, the old wallpaper must also be removed. Usually pasted old wallpaper is moistened with a spray bottle, and this process is carried out several times, since the canvases should get wet all the way to the wall. After this, the finishing material is removed using a spatula. |
 | Another option for cleaning walls from wallpaper is steaming. For this purpose, a special tool or a steam iron is used, and in addition, an air humidifier can be used, which is directed towards the wall that needs to be cleared of wallpaper. |
 | If the wall is painted, then the paint layer must also be cleaned off, otherwise the plaster layer simply will not lie on the wall. Paint is removed using a scraper, softening the old paint with a hot stream from a hair dryer. You can also use the abrasive method using grinder with an iron brush or an electric drill with an abrasive attachment. |
 | After the old decorative coating is removed from the wall surfaces, a leveling plaster layer or simply the solid concrete base itself will be exposed. Quite often there are depressions and irregularities in concrete that will have to be leveled by applying a putty layer. |
 | If plaster is found good quality, not separated from main wall, then it can not be cleaned. In this case, notches with a depth of 5–7 mm are made on the surface of the wall using an ax or chisel. They will be necessary to ensure better adhesion of the leveling starting layer to the wall. However, they often do without them, using modern “concrete contact” type primers, which provide excellent adhesion of the applied plaster compositions. |
 | However, quite often the situation is such that old plaster you have to remove it completely, as it crumbles and does not adhere securely to the surface. This flaw can be revealed when applying notches, since when tapping in some areas of the wall, the plaster layer can “bounce” or even simply fall off. If a layer separates by large plot walls, then it is best to remove the old coating completely - the process, as they say, has already begun, and no one can guarantee that the remaining areas will remain stable. |
 | Once the old plaster layer is removed, serious damage in the form of deep cracks may be found on the wall. They must be sealed, otherwise they will eventually appear on new plaster layers and the work will be ruined. |
 | Detected cracks are expanded, that is, they are made wider and deeper. They are then cleaned and treated with a deep penetration primer. They are filled with plastic repair crew. Special repair solutions are available for sale, but for interior work you can also use regular starting putty. The repair solution must fill the entire volume of the cut crack, to the full depth or width. If a wide crack is found, it can be filled with polyurethane foam with a slight expansion. Its excess, which protrudes outward after the material hardens, is trimmed flush with the wall. In some cases, to strengthen the crack and to avoid its manifestation through new finishing layers, a reinforcing sickle mesh is glued on top of it onto the putty solution. |
 | After the repair “patches” on the cracks have dried, they must be cleaned with a construction float with an abrasive mesh installed on it first, and then with sandpaper. |
 | The next step is to coat the wall with a deep penetration antiseptic primer. If the first layer of primer is absorbed into the wall surface without a trace, then one or even two more layers of primer are applied. The primer composition will penetrate the pores of the plaster or wall material, strengthen its surface and create good conditions for adhesion of materials. The solution can be applied with a roller or a wide brush. Each subsequent layer is applied only after the previous one has completely dried. |
Plaster work can be done on a primed and dried wall.
Applying a base leveling layer of plaster
Next important stage- these are plastering works that finally prepare the surface for further application of decorative plaster. Alignment is carried out on a primed and well-dried wall.
Methods for plastering surfaces may vary slightly, depending on the wall material and surface quality. But the general technology is still general, and more details about it are in the table below:
| illustration | Brief description of the operation performed |
|---|---|
 | If, when checking the wall using building level It was discovered that it requires major leveling, then the first step is to place beacons made of special metal profiles on the surface. They are fixed on the wall in increments of 1000÷1200 mm, controlled vertically and horizontally using a building level and a long rule. These profiles are fixed using cement mortar with the addition of gypsum or just a gypsum mixture, since this material sets quickly and will not delay subsequent work. Between the slides of the solution on which the beacon profiles are attached, a distance of about 400÷500 mm is maintained. |
 | Having set the beacons, you can proceed to mixing the plaster solution. It must be homogeneous, without hard inclusions, otherwise it will be problematic to level it to perfection, since voids may form near large hard fractions, which will weaken the coating. Before applying the solution, the wall can be slightly moistened by spraying it with a spray bottle or brush. The next step is to throw a thick layer of plastic mortar onto the surface, which should be 30–50 mm higher than the beacons. Excess mortar will be removed as a rule when leveling the plaster. |
 | Next, the wet solution applied to the wall is leveled by a rule moved along the beacon guides. Work begins from the bottom of the wall - usually, slowly, it rises, while it is slightly moved from side to side for better distribution of the solution in the space between the beacons. At the same time, excess plaster mixture is usually collected, which can later be used for application to adjacent sections of the wall. |
 | After plastering the surface, it should be left for 2-3 days to set. In this case, it is recommended to periodically spray the wall with water to obtain greater strength of the applied layer. Next, the still wet plaster is rubbed down, pouring cement laitance onto it. This work is carried out using a plaster trowel or grout, which is lightly pressed against the wall and the surface is rubbed in a counterclockwise circular motion, making it even. The rubbed surface is left until completely dry, which depends on the thickness of the layer and can take from 5 to 15 days. |
 | The dried plastered wall should be well primed using a paste-like thick primer, which is applied with a roller. Hard-to-reach areas of the wall are treated with a narrow brush. A water-based primer dries quite quickly, so very often after 2-3 hours it becomes possible to move on to the next stage of work. |
 | If we are talking about interior work, then in order for the result of finishing the wall to be of high quality, it is recommended to apply a thin, 1.5÷2.0 mm, layer of gypsum-based plaster onto the leveling plaster layer. It will make the surface smooth, correcting all the shortcomings of the base layer. The plaster is applied with a metal trowel or a wide spatula, making semicircular movements. It must be remembered that the gypsum mixture quickly sets and hardens, so knead a large number of solution is impossible, since it will no longer be possible to “revive” it by adding water. It should be noted that as this starting layer for decorative plaster, you can use a ready-made cement-based mixture, or one of the common putty compositions. After this layer has dried, it must be primed. |
Decorative plaster - application and coloring
When all the leveling layers have dried and the wall is completely prepared, you can proceed to the final stage of work - applying a decorative plaster layer.
Several popular methods of applying relief
This is perhaps the most interesting creative process, upon completion of which the wall will take on a completely new look. For this stage, a decorative paste-like plaster mass or a dry mixture is used, which is mixed independently, in the same way as the base solution, that is, using a mixer mounted on an electric drill.
In any case, the mass must be plastic and homogeneous, unless, of course, a coating such as “bark beetle” or “lamb” is chosen, which contains additives from stone chips. But even with such a solution, the solid fractions should be distributed completely evenly in the plastic mass.
| Illustration | Brief description of the operation performed |
|---|---|
 | Venetian plaster can have a different relief pattern, but it is always shallow and chaotic. However, sometimes it is the background for clear geometric or floral designs. Decorative plaster is applied using metal or rubber spatula thin layers, the number of which can be from 5 to 8. Despite such a considerable number of layers, the total thickness of the plaster made using this technique is only 3÷4 mm. |
 | To reproduce Venetian plaster, an already tinted composition is most often used, otherwise it will be necessary to paint it after its application and drying is complete, and in this case part of the intended effect will be lost. The desired effect of a “silk” surface is achieved by the presence of several layers of the same color, and each of them is applied and rubbed in different directions. Thanks to this technique, strokes that differ in direction give different reflections of the light falling on the wall. Thus, the surface has a silky sheen. In some cases, in order to create the effect of a deeper spatial volume, translucent from the inside, several color shades close to each other are taken. |
 | Each of the layers of plaster composition applied with strokes is smoothed, but this process is carried out by tangential movements with the application of certain forces. For each layer, professional craftsmen use spatulas and trowels of varying thickness and width, creating a multi-layered chaotic relief pattern from the solution. Using this plastering technique, you can imitate the pattern structure of various finishing stones on the wall. To enhance the imitation effect, after completing the plaster application, after waiting for it to dry, the surface is polished with wax or coated with matte varnish. |
 | A more accessible option for non-professionals is relief plaster. The composition is applied using a regular spatula in one or several layers, each of which must be dried. The relief of each layer can be smoothed, or its protruding fragments can be left in their original form. Smoothing of the solution is carried out using a metal trowel, with gentle touches. Using this technique, you can create various reliefs, and their shape and direction will depend on the creative mood of the master. |
 | If you intend to create a relief that has regular smooth shapes and lines, you can use a notched trowel (trowel), usually used to apply glue when finishing surfaces with ceramic tiles, or a special comb to reproduce it. |
 | This type of relief pattern will not be difficult to reproduce for a craftsman who has picked up a plastering tool for the first time. The first step is to apply a layer of plaster mortar to the wall using a regular wide spatula, and it is not necessary that it be perfectly even. Then a relief is displayed on it in the form of semicircles, checkerboard lines or other patterns that you can come up with yourself. |
 | Another version of the relief that can be reproduced by any creative person is a print from an ordinary plastic film on wet plaster applied to the wall. In this case, your imagination also doesn’t have to be limited, since the film can be used unfolded or rolled into a roller, or simply crumpled up randomly. In addition, you can come up with your own version of using this material, since, achieving the desired pattern, you can safely experiment with the solution and film. |
 | When removing the film after it has been pressed against the wet plaster, it will inevitably pull the solution along with it, and as a result, peculiar relief protrusions are formed, which can be smoothed out with a spatula or trowel. Using this method of creating decorative plaster, you can use a tinted solution, or paint it after the wall has dried after applying the relief. |
 | Quite popular for decorating both internal and external surfaces of walls is such a textured pattern as “bark beetle”. For this, a special plaster composition is used, which includes hard stone fractions measuring 1.5÷3 mm. This solution is applied using a metal trowel, and it can be distributed on the surface in different directions, depending on what kind of relief is intended to be obtained. When applying plaster, hard fractions leave behind furrows that imitate damage to the surface by insects. These recessed stripes can be located vertically, horizontally, diagonally, in the form of a semicircle or entire circles - the direction of the relief pattern will depend on the preference of the master and the intended design. |
 | A frequently used tool for applying relief is a roller, which leaves a textured pattern on the wall surface. This method of recreating volume can be used by any homeowner, even those who have never worked before. plastering works. It is enough to purchase a roller with the relief you like on its rubber nozzle and leave an imprint on the fresh solution applied to the wall. The choice of attachments is so large that they can be selected to suit any, even the most sophisticated taste. If desired, you can make a roller attachment yourself, using pieces of foam rubber, twisted coarse rope, plastic film, fur, fabric with deep relief or other materials that can leave the necessary impression on wet plaster. |
 | If you plan to create the correct floral pattern on the walls, in the form of grass and leaves of different shapes and sizes, then a roller with such a pattern will have to be purchased ready-made. Work on decorating walls using this technique goes quite quickly, since there will be no failures in the process - the plaster mixture is applied and distributed to the surface with a spatula, and while it remains wet, a roller is passed over it, which will leave the selected pattern on the surface. |
 | And this is a completely simple method that does not require special expenses for purchasing a tool for reproducing the relief. For the finishing process, a regular flat brush with soft or hard bristles is used, depending on how clear the pattern is planned to be obtained. The relief is recreated using the same principle as when using a spatula with a notched comb - using fresh plaster applied to the wall. |
 | Another technique of decorative plaster, not performed over the entire surface of the wall, but only in certain areas. The background for it can be one of the above-described types of shallow relief. The panels are usually made from gypsum plaster mortar. The composition is applied in slides to the marked area of the wall according to the pattern and left to dry. After drying they use cutting tools– this can be a knife, cutters of different shapes and a spatula – they are used to create the desired shapes. In addition to the cutters, you will need sandpaper with fine and medium grains, which will be used to smooth out the cut out elements of the three-dimensional pattern. In order not to spoil the wall, it is recommended to experiment by creating a small panel or its individual parts on a plywood sheet. Only after making sure that everything works out can you proceed to reproducing the intended relief design on the wall. |
In addition to those listed above, there are other objects that can be used to create relief designs on the surface of the wall. For this purpose, not only professional tools are widely used, but also improvised devices or even fragments of plants, for example, tree leaves or branches of various thicknesses.
Painting decorative plaster
As mentioned above, you can buy colored decorative plaster in construction stores, but working with it is much more difficult, since it is necessary to reproduce all the complex ones with one color. Therefore, most often a white plaster mixture is chosen, which, after final drying, is covered with selected shades, which significantly expands the creative possibilities of the home craftsman.
In addition to applying color to a finished relief wall, there is another technique for creating a colored surface. In this version in white plaster Before applying it, a certain color is added, and then a relief on the wall is made from material of different shades. This is a rather complex technique, and a professional artist or a person with the appropriate talent can handle it. Therefore, the most the best option All that remains is to paint the finished relief.
Usually, for painting decorative plaster, water-based paints are used, to which the desired color is added. When choosing a color, it is recommended to make it one or two shades darker, since when the paint dries, it will lighten.
| Illustration | Brief description of the operation performed |
|---|---|
 | The most used technique when giving embossed plaster a coloring is to cover it in a light tone, selected shade. This coloring will become unifying for the entire composition. The paint is applied to the entire surface using a roller, after squeezing it on the ribbed surface of the paint tray. If the relief has a depth of more than 5 mm, then a long-haired roller is used to tint it, or especially deep fragments are tinted with a soft brush. |
 | The first paint layer is applied in one go, otherwise the coloring will turn out uneven. Therefore, if the paint is tinted yourself, you need to mix it enough so that it is enough for the first layer for all the walls in the room, or at least for one wall, but always for its entire area. This is especially important if the surfaces will be painted with one color without additional shades or stains. Coloring is carried out in different ways, depending on the depth of the relief and the desired final result. |
 | One of the options for uneven coloring is done using a sponge. Then they walk over the still damp painted surface with a soft cloth or a dry sponge, barely touching the protruding elements of the relief. This execution technique is aimed at enhancing the “depth of space” of the relief not only with the help of volume, but also with the use of color play. |
 | This method of finishing decoration consists of two stages - painting and cleaning the protruding relief elements with sandpaper. The first step is to paint the entire area of the walls with a common color - this process can be carried out using a roller or spray. The second stage is carried out after the paint has completely dried. Fine-grained sandpaper is installed on a construction float, after which the tool is used to go over the protruding parts of the relief. In this way, the paint is removed or lightened from the surface, thereby revealing a three-dimensional pattern. If desired, the cleaned surfaces can be coated with paint that is close in tone to the main color, darker or lighter, depending on the effect you want to achieve. Usually a light shade is chosen, as it visually increases the volume of the relief. |
 | Only an experienced craftsman can make a relief panel, but you can try painting it yourself. However, you need to take into account that this process is quite complicated and time-consuming, since it will have to be done with thin brushes, so the work will take quite a lot of time. It is recommended to cover the finished relief plaster panel with a primer, dry it, and only then begin painting. You should not take pure bright colors, as the relief behind them will not be visible. Therefore, they are diluted to shades of the chosen color or a certain amount is added to white paint. |
 | In this option for painting decorative plaster, two colors are used - one is the main one, and the second is an auxiliary one, which will highlight the relief pattern. The work is carried out in two stages. Firstly, the entire surface is covered with one, primary color. This process can be carried out with a roller, wide brush or spray. Then this layer should be well dried. The second stage consists of applying paint using tangential movements to the protruding parts of the relief using a soft brush, a foam sponge or a mitten worn on the hand. The applied paint should be thick enough and the brush or sponge should be dry. |
Video: an interesting example of painting a wall finished with relief plaster
The final stage of work on decorative plaster is coating the walls with varnish or wax. This process must be carried out carefully, since applying the final layer carelessly can ruin the entire job.
In conclusion, I would like to say that if experience in performing decorative plastering is small or absent altogether, it is not recommended to choose overly complex design techniques. In the same case, when a specific drawing is selected and a decision is made to reproduce it on the wall at all costs, you should carefully study the instructions and practice small area walls or plywood board.
Video: demonstration of various techniques for applying and decorating decorative plasters
“Versailles plaster”: a technology accessible to everyone - step by step
In the final section, the design of a wall with the so-called “Versailles plaster” will be considered as an example. In the proposed finishing technology, instead of plaster composition, two types of putty are used - starting and finishing, which allows you to save a decent amount on finishing. In addition, the advantage of this method of original decorative wall decoration is that even a novice master can do it. The main thing is to purchase quality material and use it correctly.
In addition to the two types of putty, to obtain the desired result, you will need “Quartz-primer” for application to the wall under the decorative cladding, which creates increased adhesion between the materials and also prevents the putty from drying too quickly. The presence of this material is a prerequisite for decorating a wall using this technology.
In order for the plaster layer to turn out aesthetically pleasing, it is necessary to purchase two more components, without which the desired effect will not be achieved.
This is, firstly, decorative color coating type “Adagio Silver” - on an acrylic binder, containing small metal particles various forms. Gives a very interesting iridescent effect, giving the wall a silky look.
Secondly, so-called glitter is used, consisting of tiny particles of polyester film. different forms. This component is also added to one of the layers of decorative wall trim.
| Illustration | Brief description of the operation performed |
|---|---|
 | The first step is to mix the model mass, consisting of starting and finishing putty in a 1:1 ratio. Mixing proceeds as follows: Part of the starting putty and part of the finishing putty are poured into a container with water in turn, then the sequence is repeated, and so on until it is filled required quantity dry mixture. If necessary, add a little water to the bucket, and then mix the mass using a mixer attachment. Further, ready solution left for 10÷12 minutes - this time is necessary for it to “ripen”. After this time, the mass is mixed again until smooth. It should be mixed very well and have a medium-thick consistency, that is, not particularly liquid and not thick. |
 | The finished putty composition is applied to the prepared, leveled, treated with “Quartz-soil” and dried wall surface. If the mass will not be applied from the ceiling, but below, along a broken line on the wall, then it is recommended to first stick masking tape along it, which will help leave the upper part of the wall clean and keep the upper border of the decorative finish even. Work starts from the top line. First of all, the putty mixture is distributed along the masking tape. |
 | The applied layer should have a thickness of 2÷3 mm. Particular attention should be paid to filling the joints of the planes, for example, if the putty will be applied from the ceiling line. The mixture is applied to the wall with a trowel in a relatively even layer. This work can also be done with a spatula having a width of 300÷350 mm. It should be noted that in this finishing option you don’t have to try too hard, leveling the solution to perfect smoothness, the main thing is that the layer of material has the same thickness over the entire plane of the wall and is fairly even. The smoother the putty layer, the easier it will be to see flaws in the relief pattern. |
 | An even facing layer is applied to a height of 1000÷1500 mm from the top down the wall. Then a relief pattern is formed on the wet putty. For this, a plastic trowel with a pointed plate in front is used - it is shaped like an iron. Work starts from the corners or the top line of the wall. The master makes wave-like movements, stretching the mass, while simultaneously creating a chaotic pattern in the form of stripes running in different directions. With the help of a trowel, the mass is lifted above the surface, creating a larger volume of decorative coating and leaving behind grooves different widths, most often located diagonally on the surface. The convenience of creating a relief in this way is that the design applied to the solution can always be corrected if the master does not like it in some way. |
 | Having worked out the first batch of putty, and having reached approximately the middle of the wall in height, the next portion of the solution is prepared. During this time, the mass applied to the wall will have time to set. Therefore, many craftsmen have the problem of combining the plastered area of the wall with the already set mortar and the fresh, just mixed mass, which will be applied below. The joint between the two areas of the wall should be completely invisible. |
 | In order for the combination to take place neatly and become completely unnoticeable, a fresh solution is applied overlapping the already applied layer by 150÷200 mm, and then the overall layer is smoothed out. This process must be carried out along the entire line of combining two zones - upper and lower. |
 | The overlap line needs to be smoothed out well, and then a general relief pattern must be applied to it. |
 | Applying the relief begins from the area where the design has already been applied. It turns out that it is, as it were, “picked up” with a trowel and extended onto an evenly applied unifying putty layer along its entire length. |
 | When combining two zones of the wall, it is important to ensure that there are no deep dents or clearly even stripes from the trowel left on it. Such defects must be smoothed out and these areas given a general relief, since they will be especially noticeable in these areas. When working on a connecting line, it is recommended to step aside and inspect the work area from a distance. This way you can more clearly identify shortcomings and correct them immediately. |
 | Then, the model mass is applied to the entire lower part of the wall in an even layer, and a relief is formed on it in exactly the same way. When the wall is completely covered with this primary layer of putty with the applied relief, it is left to dry completely for two days. |
 | When the wall dries, they go over its surface with a spatula, with which it is necessary to clean the protruding sharp edges of the relief strips, since they should be rounded. |
 | Then, the entire surface is treated with a construction trowel, with sandpaper No. 60 installed on it. Grouting is carried out with slight pressure, in a counterclockwise circular motion. |
 | After processing, you should get a relief surface with smoothed protruding edges of the pattern. An additional check of the surface, that is, its smoothness, can be done by running your palm over it. If untreated areas are found that scratch the palm, then this flaw must be corrected immediately. The treated surface must be thoroughly cleaned of putty dust - this process is carried out using a soft, wide brush or broom. |
 | The next step is to treat the surface with a deep penetration primer. The primer is applied with a roller with a nap attachment. The composition must be well distributed over the wall, collecting all the formed smudges. This layer dries in 1.5÷2 hours. |
 | Next, take a white water-based paint, add a color of the selected shade (in this case, the master used a beige dye), and the mixture is well mixed until smooth. The paint should be applied easily and not be too thick, therefore, if necessary, the solution should be diluted to the desired consistency with water. The relatively liquid composition of the paint, when applied to the wall, will become translucent, which, in combination with other layers of different shades, will create the illusion of space. |
 | The paint is first applied to the edge of the wall using a brush, and then the main part of the surface is tinted using a nap roller. It distributes the mass well over the relief surface, filling all the recesses of the design with paint, and when rolling out the composition, it collects its excess. As a result, the surface should be neat and evenly painted, free of smudges. After the entire surface is covered with the tinting composition, it is left until completely dry. Water based paint applied thin layer, will dry in about two hours. |
 | Next, a composition made from a regular primer and “silver” - the “Adagio Silver” dye – is applied to the surface using a foam roller. The mixture is prepared in a 1:1 ratio, that is, in this case the master took 250 × 250 grams of these materials. The resulting mixture should have a fairly thick consistency and should not leak at all. The mass is applied to the wall without pressure, so that only the upper protruding elements of the relief are covered. The recesses should not be painted with this composition. |
 | The mixture is carefully rolled out over the entire surface of the wall, highlighting the relief with color. |
 | Next, you will need to prepare a finishing composition that will transform the wall surface beyond recognition. It consists of a water-based varnish and a small amount of glitter. The varnish is diluted with water, in proportions of approximately 1:3, and mixed well. The addition of water is necessary to ensure that a hard, uneven, glossy crust does not form on the surface of the wall after coating it. |
 | A small amount of glitter is added to the varnish, about a tablespoon per 0.5 liter of composition. Then the solution is thoroughly mixed by vigorous shaking. Before you start shaking, the lid of the container with the composition must be tightly closed. |
 | Next, the finished varnish composition is applied to the relief plaster using a foam roller and is well distributed by rolling it over the wall surface. Having completed this stage of work, the finishing can be considered complete. All that remains is to wait for the wall surface to dry, and then remove the masking tape enclosing the wall. |
 | The last illustration shows the result of this fairly long work over the wall decoration. But, you must admit, the technology is not so complicated, and the resulting finish looks very original. |
Decorative plaster, made with your own hands from ordinary putty, is gaining increasing popularity as an affordable type of finishing, since almost everyone is looking for a middle ground when renovating their home, and an optimal price-quality ratio.
Advantages of homemade plaster
Modern renovation is expensive in terms of both purchased materials and hired labor. work force. The work of a plasterer-finisher costs a lot of money. Everyone’s desire to save money is understandable and reasonable: no one wants the repair to drag on for many months, if not years, due to the high cost of the material and the work performed. To prevent it from becoming a family curse, you need to look for the most rational way out of this situation. However, the solution is obvious: make the material yourself. This option will suit the vast majority of people who want to make inexpensive and beautiful renovations to their apartment.
There are plenty of tools for this, and it’s not difficult to acquire them - if you would like to make a pattern.
The use of textured and structural rollers
A simple way to make textured plaster from ordinary putty with your own hands is to use a special roller. It is quite simple to obtain the desired quality of finish in this way.
Depending on the working surface, this tool produces the desired result - the desired pattern on the wall.
Rollers differ in the material they are made of:
In addition to the listed rollers, there are also tools made of foam rubber, fabric, polyethylene, with a spirally attached cord. With their help you can achieve a rough surface with a pattern.
Important! You should not press too hard on the tool while working - a clear pattern is obtained only with minimal force. The tool must be moved from top to bottom without stopping, pressing firmly against the finished strip.
These tools fall into two categories:
Homemade finishing tool
It is not necessary to use only those tools that are sold in stores. Having at hand waste materials, you can make a roller that will create an unusual, unique pattern.
You can use, for example, a ready-made roller, but make your own adjustments to its design. Examples:
There are any number of options for such homemade creativity: polyethylene, twine, rope, threads are used. The foam roller can be used to cut abstract shapes, slits, etc.
Important! When working with structured and textured rollers, you need to work smoothly, without making sudden movements.
Other necessary tools
You can apply the pattern using other devices:
In addition to the listed tool, you can use a lot more, from a paintbrush to a Venetian trowel (trowel). Even a simple broom can give a wall a unique design.
Decorative plaster from ordinary putty
Of course, one should not discount simple types of finishing, which are quite attractive in appearance, using the most ordinary putty, both starting and finishing. How to make textured plaster with your own hands? Very simple, and this option has been widely used lately. “Branded”, ready-to-use putty costs about three times more than regular putty, and making it yourself is not difficult.
Now let's talk about how it can be made and how to work with a homemade mixture.
Materials for decorative putty plaster:
- PVA glue - 200 g.
- Gypsum-based mixture - 6 kg.
- Water - 2l.
First, we apply a layer, which is called the main layer - this is done with a wide spatula. When this layer dries, we begin decorating. Creation methods textured surface varied. You can apply the composition with spatulas of various sizes and textures - from smooth to jagged. They can be combined.
You can do this with one spatula, applying strokes in different directions. Even the most ordinary broom, as already mentioned, is used to create a pattern, and the result is achieved when impressions are made on the plaster with a broom - from chaotic to strictly directed strokes.
There are many application methods, you either need to choose the one you like.
Applying decorative putty
Each of us would like to get the beautiful appearance of our own home at minimal cost. One of the easiest methods to get what you want is to buy finishing putty. Precisely the finishing one, if the purpose of finishing is a soft texture.
Ways to get a beautiful surface when used decorative putty for walls, a lot. Let's give one of them, quite popular.
Tools:
- Mack brush.
- A napkin or trowel rolled into a cone.
It’s still better to work together, because you need to do everything quickly, not allowing the mixture to dry out prematurely, so that transitions are not visible. After all, one of the main advantages of this finish is the absence of joints on the surface.
Of course, this option is far from the only one. It's all about your personal preferences and taste. Your imagination should work for you!
Different application methods
How to do:
- The plaster is dried before painting.
- If there is such a need, it must be treated with fine-grain sandpaper.
- Paint is applied in two layers. The base layer - a dark shade - is applied with a long-haired roller.
- After complete drying - a lighter color. Short-hair roller.
Painting methods:
Everything will depend on the drawing. In any case, the background paint is applied in two layers. After finishing the work, two layers of varnish are applied.
Of course, a homemade composition is simple to make, and gypsum-based mixtures are inexpensive, but they will not 100% replace branded decorative putty for walls, which contains marble and granite chips. In no case should it be compared, for example, with Venetian plaster, which is applied only by masters, and even then not by everyone. But nevertheless, the option described above is available to anyone who wants to add variety to the interior of their home. It will give both wallpaper and painting a head start both in appearance and in the durability of the coating.
The modern world offers a huge assortment of all kinds building materials for decorating the surface of walls and ceilings. It is very difficult for an inexperienced consumer to make a choice in favor of one specific product, because each product has its own disadvantages, advantages and application techniques. The article will discuss methods of applying textured plaster.
Of course, personal views and financial condition When giving preference to a particular product, first of all, you should answer the questions where the cladding will be used and what qualities are expected from it.
- Nowadays, a very popular material is textured plaster, which can be used both indoors and outdoors. We can safely say that this universal look finishing, ideal for renovating a bathroom, corridor, kitchen, living room or facade; it also looks good in public buildings: for example, as wall decoration in cinemas, restaurants, banks, offices and so on.
- Such plaster can easily transform an interior, highlight style features, and impart a feeling of coziness and comfort. In addition, it has a lot of other advantages.
Advantages of textured plaster
Plaster, which creates a texture on the surface, is suitable for finishing almost any room, in addition, it is considered ideal option for highlighting and emphasizing all kinds of interior elements: niches, built-in wardrobes, columns, false fireplaces and many others.
To the main positive qualities of this material can be attributed:
- good sound absorption;
- moisture resistance - can be used even in rooms with high humidity;
- strength and durability;
- plasticity - the material during operation is capable of stretching within 5-7 mm, which is very important when finishing new houses, where there is a high probability of slight shrinkage;
- affordable price;
- imitation of various surfaces, including exotic ones (wild animal skin, reptile skin, sand dunes, tree bark, stone and others);
- unique and diverse design - even one master cannot create two completely identical surfaces, and due to various application and painting techniques, a lot of new variations appear;
- attractive appearance;
- it is possible to apply plaster without the involvement of expensive specialists and without the presence of professional equipment; sometimes a spatula and a trowel are enough, which even inexperienced repairmen can handle;
- abrasion resistance and mechanical damage, as well as to any weather phenomena;
- easy and simple maintenance, you can even wash or vacuum the plastered surface;
- The mixture contains only environmentally friendly components.
Of course, all the advantages of plaster are fully manifested provided that it is applied correctly and a quality product has been chosen.
Types of textured plaster based on the presence of a binder component
Textured plaster is a general name for several different materials, each of which has its own characteristics that must be taken into account before choosing a specific product.
- Despite the fact that texture-creating plasters have many common features and properties (for example, they all form a rough surface when dry, and also contain special granular additives), there are still differences between them. First of all, the material differs in the texture it creates and in the presence of certain components.
- A binder is a substance that holds the composition in a single mass, that is, it is the main component that affects the positive and negative qualities of the plaster.
Silicone textured plaster
- This type of mixture is made on the basis of synthetic (silicone) resin. It is produced only in finished form, that is, it does not require additional dilution with any liquid before use. Used on any mineral surfaces - stone, brick, concrete and so on, as well as on old coatings, indoors and outdoors.
- Among the advantages are long service life, ductility, vapor permeability, moisture resistance and increased resistance to external adverse factors, that is, dirt, dust and moisture practically do not stick to the plastered surface. When choosing this type of plaster, keep in mind that it is applied only over a silicone primer.
Mineral textured plaster
- This type of mixture is also called cement-mineral, since it is cement that acts as a binding component. Various plasticizers are used as additives to make the solution more elastic. As a rule, the product is supplied in the form of a dry substance, which should be diluted with water before use. Can be applied to mineral surfaces of interior walls and building facades.
- The main advantages are considered to be non-flammability and good vapor permeability finished layer, and in addition, it is the most affordable product. The disadvantages include that it is recommended to paint the finished plastered surface, even if there is no need to change the color, especially when it comes to facade work, since plaster has low resistance to moisture, and over time it can begin to “dust.”
Acrylic textured plaster
- This is a mixture made on the basis of acrylic resins. It is supplied ready-made and does not require additional dilution. Recommended for use on mineral surfaces, but can also be used on any old coating. Due to its excellent resistance to almost any climatic conditions, it is used for finishing external walls of buildings, but it is worth considering its low vapor permeability.
- In order to give the finished layer the required shade, the dye should be added to the solution and mixed well; additional painting on the plastered surface is not required - due to this feature, the color is more resistant, including to abrasion and fading.
Silicate textured plaster
- This is a product based on an aqueous dispersion of potassium silicate; such a solution is also called soluble or liquid glass. The product is delivered in a ready-made state, that is, when working with it, there is no need to add any substances or liquids to the composition. Suitable for plastering almost any surface, but it is important to treat the base with a silicone primer before application.
- The main advantages are considered to be such parameters as excellent vapor permeability, immunity to weather conditions, and, therefore, it is possible to use resistance to stains when finishing facades, or, in other words, a self-cleaning layer is formed. The disadvantages include a high alkali content, which is considered extremely harmful, and in some European countries, such compositions are even prohibited for use; in addition, silicate plaster belongs to the category of quite expensive goods.
When choosing one or another subtype of plaster, you should rely on the type of surface, as well as the type of material used for insulation.
- So, for example, for walls made of cellular concrete, the main characteristic of plaster will be its good vapor permeability, because blocks made of aerated concrete or foam concrete are quite porous in their structure, and, therefore, can absorb moisture, which, not finding a way out, will begin to accumulate between the layer of plaster and the wall and destroy both surfaces.
- The second important point may be the insulation used, for example, almost any plaster mixture can be applied to polystyrene foam, but if mineral wool is used, then acrylic plaster should not be used, but silicone or silicate compounds
Types of textured plaster by texture and method of application
The main subspecies here are three types, which differ in the size of the filler and the main components, as well as the technology for applying textured plaster to the base.
Texture "Bark beetle"
When facing with this type of plaster, the surface acquires a grooved texture, in appearance reminiscent of labyrinthine passages left by wood-boring beetles in wood. When the entire wall acquires this texture, it looks unique and quite beautiful.
- Bark beetle plaster is produced with the addition of filler of various fractions, from 1.5 mm to 3.5. Finer grains are usually used for interior decoration, while coarse grains are excellent for cladding facades. It should be taken into account that as the filler size increases, the material consumption also increases.
- Products are manufactured in two types: acrylic base(in finished form) and on a cement-gypsum, that is, mineral basis (in the form of a dry powder). Depending on the manufacturer, the mixture may contain various components, but most often marble or granite chips are used as granules. Grain replaces sand in the composition, and due to the fact that polymer fillers are added, the solution itself is quite light.
- TO main advantages This type of textured plaster includes the following:
- environmental friendliness;
- resistance to temperature changes (from -50 to +60 degrees);
- frost resistance;
- resistance to UV radiation;
- fire resistance, and when exposed to fire, no harmful and dangerous emissions are released;
- durability and strength;
- moisture resistance (can be washed with water or tiled in rooms with high humidity);
- mold, bacteria or fungi do not appear on the finished layer and underneath it;
- resistance to chemicals;
- the surface can be painted in any color (two methods of painting: after the layer dries and adding dye to the solution);
- affordable price.
- The work of applying textured bark beetle plaster consists of 3 main stages: priming, plastering and grouting the surface.
Tip: For cladding, it is best to choose a clear day with moderate temperatures, as temperature fluctuations and dampness can lead to uneven drying of the applied layer, which will negatively affect the result.
Tools that will be needed for work:
- a plastic or silicone container for diluting the plaster and a construction mixer for stirring (if the plaster is in the form of a dry powder);
- spatula and grater for applying the mixture;
- roller and primer tray.
Stages of applying textured bark beetle plaster with your own hands
- First of all, the surface is cleaned and primed; after the primer has completely dried, you can begin the main work. The dry mixture should be diluted strictly according to the instructions, but you should not mix all the available packages at once, since usually the viability of the solution does not exceed 2-3 hours. It is better to do this gradually, and you must ensure that the already applied layer does not have time to dry, otherwise the transition will be very noticeable.
- The solution is distributed evenly over the surface using a spatula. The layer should not exceed the size of the granules contained in the composition. It is best to apply textured plaster in vertical or horizontal rows, covering the entire width or height of the base in one pass. If the surface is too big size, then the boundaries up to which it will be convenient to apply the mixture are outlined in advance.
- After applying the “bark beetle”, it is necessary to leave the surface for 15-20 minutes for easy setting, and then begin grouting, which, depending on the desired pattern, will have different directions of movement. So a drawing in the form of “rain” is done vertically from top to bottom or simultaneously in two directions. It is also possible to grout using circular or wave-like movements, it all depends on the imagination of the master. For an even transition from one strip to another, you can lightly moisten the joints with water.
- Textured bark beetle plaster is painted over a dry layer using a roller or brush, or dyes are added to the solution, and the already painted mixture is applied to the surface.
Application of textured bark beetle plaster video
Texture "Lamb"
- This texture, when applied to the surface, resembles the wool of a young lamb twisted into rings, that is, a rough, granular layer is obtained. Most often, the product is produced in the form of a cement-based dry mixture. Various plasticizers are also added to the composition, but the main component that creates the texture is marble or quartz chips, 2.5 mm in size.
- Due to the large fraction, “lamb” is usually used on the facades of buildings, but it can also be used when finishing interior walls, as well as ceilings in rooms with high humidity or heavy load, for example, in the bathroom, in the kitchen, in the corridor, on the balcony, in the hall , walls in the office, etc.
- The basis for cladding can be almost any. It works best on mineral surfaces such as clay, concrete, cement-lime, brick or gypsum, and can also be used on plasterboard.
- TO main advantages The following qualities can be attributed:
- environmental friendliness;
- plasticity and elasticity;
- frost resistance;
- resistance to abrasion and mechanical stress;
- does not absorb moisture;
- ease of application of the solution and maintenance of the lined surface;
- fire resistance;
- resistance to weather conditions, including ultraviolet radiation;
- retains its original appearance for a long time;
- wide choice of color shades.
Stages of work on applying textured “lamb” plaster
- In order to correctly and most importantly efficiently apply lamb plaster, it is important to carefully prepare the base, achieve ideal evenness and smoothness, and also make sure that the surface is clean and dry. First of all, you should free the wall or ceiling from the old coating, repair all the unevenness, cracks, and potholes; this can be done with any leveling mixture.
- In new buildings, the walls may have oil or bitumen stains, which should also be cleaned or degreased. Then the base is primed, this is especially important if the surface tends to absorb moisture. In each specific case, the primer composition is selected in accordance with the type of surface being treated.
- Textured “lamb” plaster is supplied in the form of a dry mixture, which means that before application it must be diluted with water, strictly following the manufacturer’s instructions. Since the composition contains cement, the viability of the solution usually does not exceed two hours from the moment of mixing, which means that enough powder should be diluted to use it up in the allotted time.
- It is worth talking a little about the technology of applying the solution. Firstly, it is important to observe the temperature regime and not work with the mixture if the temperature drops below +5 or rises above +25 degrees. The next point is the choice of tool. Professional builders recommend using good tools from of stainless steel- grater and spatula.
- Apply the mixture to the surface using a grater, with a thickness equal to the size of the grain. It is best to coat a small area at a time, but there is no need to take long breaks when moving on to the next one, since an unevenly dried solution will reduce the quality of all the work done. To give the texture of small curls, smooth the applied mixture with a grater in a circular motion.
Texture "Fur coat"
- This mixture looks like pebbles evenly distributed over the entire surface. The pattern is somewhat reminiscent of the previous texture, and sometimes the two types of plasters are not separated, but are considered a single variety. A wall lined with this composition takes on a voluminous and slightly rough appearance. Manufacturers produce plaster with grain sizes of 1, 1.5 and 2.5 mm. The composition with the smallest fraction is usually used for finishing interior walls.
- Among main advantages can be distinguished:
- environmental friendliness;
- resistance to weather conditions;
- strength and durability;
- elasticity;
- vapor permeability;
- economical consumption of the mixture and its low cost.
Stages of applying textured “fur coat” plaster with your own hands
- The surface for applying the solution should be prepared in the same way as for any other plaster mixture - clean from dust, dirt, oil stains, level and coat with a primer. The base can be concrete, brick, plasterboard mixtures, as well as cement-lime coating.
- The product can be supplied for sale in finished form ( plastic containers) or as a dry mixture (in paper bags). Dry powder is cheaper than the finished composition; it must be diluted with water, following the recommendations on the package. As a rule, in dry form, plaster is made on the basis of cement, and in diluted form - on acrylic resins, therefore, when choosing a powder, you should take into account that the finished layer will be more fragile and less elastic. At self-finishing It is recommended to buy plaster in an already diluted state. Since it is much easier to apply such a composition and the chance to do everything perfectly increases.
- Most often, textured “fur coat” plaster is applied with a roller. This is done as follows: the mixture is applied in an even layer to the wall, and then rolled with a roller over the wet layer in the desired direction. It is also practiced to apply the mixture directly with a roller, but do not press it too hard onto the surface. In order to qualitatively distribute the texture over the entire wall, you need to start moving the roller from the area with a large application of the mixture to a smaller one.
- In addition to the manual method, there is also a mechanical method. To do this, you should use a compressor or a spray gun, with the help of which application occurs much faster, and the layer turns out to be more uniform, plus, the resulting texture has a kind of droplet appearance, as if floating on top of each other, in contrast to manual application, where the texture turns out to be more “prickly” " Moreover, over time, such “thorns” tend to fall off.
- The finished surface can be painted in almost any desired shade; manufacturers also add coloring pigments to the composition in advance. You should only take into account that cement textured plasters have a grayish tint, which means they can only be painted in dark colors, that is, getting pastel, beige, peach shades will be problematic. If the paint was applied to an already dry surface, then after a few years there is a high probability of it fading. The “fur coat” can be repainted many times with any façade paints.
These three types of textured plaster are the most common, but not the only ones. Modern technologies allow you to create a wide variety of textures on almost any surface, due to the introduction of various granules and fibers into the composition. In addition, thanks to the variety of technologies and methods of applying the solution to the base, you can achieve a unique original design.
Main characteristics of textured plasters
A common characteristic of almost all textured plasters is that the mixtures form a rough layer on the surface due to the presence of various granular fillers (granite, quartz, marble chips, wood, flax or cotton fibers, as well as coarse sand or mica).
Among the main technical characteristics It is worth paying attention to the following indicators:
- filler size - 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm.
- water consumption - 220-270 ml per 1 kg of dry powder (5-6 l / 25 kg);
- mixture consumption - when applied with a layer of 1 mm over an area of 1 m2, 1-1.5 kg of solution is required (with a layer of 3 mm / 3-4.5 kg);
- viability of the solution - the solution retains its properties for 60-180 minutes, depending on the presence of various plasticizers in the composition;
- drying time of the plaster layer - from 20 hours ( acrylic plasters) up to 3 days (mineral plasters);
- complete drying time - 28 days;
- the color of the mixture and the finished layer is from white to light gray, sometimes has a yellowish tint, and colors of various colors can also be added to the composition;
- ambient and surface temperature during operation - from +5 to +30 degrees;
- temperature resistance - from -55 to +60 degrees;
- compressive strength coefficient - 7.5 MPa;
- adhesive strength coefficient - 0.5 MPa;
- frost resistance - up to 50 defrost/freeze cycles for a dry mixture and up to 20 cycles for a ready-made solution;
- packaging - bags of 5, 15, 25 kg and plastic containers of 15 kg;
- Shelf life is from 6 to 18 months in compliance with all manufacturer’s recommendations (unopened packaging and a dry, dark place).
Textured decorative plaster is the best choice for finishing any surfaces (the only exceptions are glass and metal). Thanks to its texture, the material is able to hide small irregularities and roughness on the walls, which is why it looks ideal on the facades of residential and public buildings.
Due to its positive qualities, it is easy to work with and very simple to care for. Also, textured plaster can serve as a heat and sound insulation layer. In addition, the resulting pattern will be unique; it is simply impossible to repeat exactly the same one. The finished layer will last for many years, remaining in its original form, and if you get tired of the monotony of the surface, you can repaint it at any time and again enjoy the “fresh” renovation. This is an environmentally friendly, durable, and most importantly affordable material.
Textured plaster is widely used as finishing coating for facades of houses and walls in enclosed spaces. It provides surfaces not only with high aesthetic qualities, but also protects them from external influences. The level of this protection directly depends on the technical characteristics of each specific composition.
From this article you will learn how to make and apply your own different mixtures. You can also get acquainted with the mixtures different types and watch a video about textured plaster.
Making your own mixtures
Almost any textured plaster can be made independently. The only exception is mosaic mixtures.
Production of textured compositions such as bark beetle and lamb beetle
In principle, you can take a ready-made composition, dry or in the form of a mixture, as a basis. It can be cement, cement-lime, silicate, acrylic, gypsum or gypsum-lime plaster. The choice is made based on your needs: for facade or interior work, for dry or wet rooms, etc.
There is no specific recipe here. Just take the packaging ready mixture and dilute it according to the instructions. Next we introduce the filler – stone chips. The amount of the latter will have to be determined experimentally. We start with 1 kg per 10 kg bucket. We try to apply it on some flat surface, if we see that the texture turns out to be inexpressive, we add more. If the textured decorative plaster ends up being too thick, thin it out a little.
Textured plaster for walls: the photo shows an example of finishing with the optimal amount of filler
And now regarding the nature of the filler. The type of stone is not important here; the grain fraction is more important. The bark beetle contains crumbs with a diameter of 1.5 to 3.5 mm. For interior decoration, it is better to take a grain of up to 2 mm; larger grains are suitable for facades. The lambs contain a mixture of stones of different fractions, from 1.5 to 3 mm. How to apply textured plaster - you can watch the video in the next section.
Note:Mosaic textured plaster cannot be created at home. This is due to the characteristics of acrylic resins used in such compositions as a binder. In the wide market you can only find acrylic for creating artificial stone, but this is not suitable for us.
Relief plaster on walls: photo of “lamb” coating
Textured mixtures based on putties
Textured plaster made from ordinary putty successfully imitates expensive Venetian mixtures and “marbled” ones. The basis of the composition can be any, at your discretion. We choose it according to the same principle as described above for the bark beetle and lamb. As a filler we use sifted white sand in the proportion of 1 kg of sand per 10 kg of putty. Tinting is done “by eye”; you just need to check with the seller whether it becomes lighter or darker when it dries.
Textured plaster in the kitchen: finishing based on putty
The type of texture that can be obtained using such a composition depends on the application technique - we will talk about it below. Textured plaster made from ordinary putty requires a finishing coat - it provides the missing visual effect. The recipe is as follows:
- Wax for decorative plaster – 1 part.
- Water or other suitable liquid, depending on the type of wax - 10% by weight of the latter.
- Metallic or pearlescent color – 30% of the wax weight.
Roughly speaking, if we take 1 kilogram of wax, then we will need 100 g of water, and 300 g of color.
How to make textured plaster: video of making and applying the finishing coat.
Types of textured plasters for facade and interior work. Application technology
For internal and external work, almost the same set of compositions is used. An exception is Venetian textured plasters, which are used only indoors.
Textured plasters for exterior use
Mixtures of the “bark beetle” type are often used for finishing facades. They are named so for the similarity of the finished coating to wood eaten by wood-boring beetles. When applied, the filler contained in the mixture forms many short grooves on the surface, similar to traces of beetle activity. The width of the paths depends on the stone grain fraction (from 1.5 to 3 mm). The nature of the drawing is determined by the nature of the movements of the trowel during finishing. This could be crosshairs, circles or rain.
Textured plasters for external use such as bark beetles are produced on the basis of cement, cement with lime, liquid glass and acrylic. The first two options are suitable for any type of base, have a long service life and are cheaper than others. Disadvantages: tendency to crack if applied incorrectly, heavy weight, limited choice of colors. Liquid glass and acrylic are more plastic, hydrophobic, and have a wide color palette. The downside is the high price.
Textured decorative plaster: photo of finishing the facade with a pebble composition
Note:textured plasters “lamb” and “pebble” are made on the basis of the same materials as bark beetles. The only differences are in the nature of the filler - the stone grain in lamb is of different sizes, but in stone mixtures there is more of it in quantity.Another type of textured plaster for exterior use is mosaic. The surface is slightly rough, looks like an agglomerate of stone chips, plain or multi-colored. The filler here is marble, granite or other stone grain, natural color or painted. As binder – acrylic resins. The finished coating is resistant to atmospheric agents and operational loads. Most often, mosaic mixtures are used to decorate the bases of houses, less often - for walls.
Mosaic decoration of the facade
Textured plasters for interior work
The mixtures described above such as bark beetle, lamb beetle and pebble are also used for finishing rooms. In private houses and apartments - for corridors, kitchens and utility rooms. In offices - in corridors and other places with high operational load. Mosaic compositions are used only in offices. The stone grain fraction of all mixtures here is finer, within 2 mm.
More often, marble and Venetian textured plasters are used for interior decoration. These are thin-layer coatings with high decorative qualities, suitable for both walls and ceilings. They are resistant to moisture and cracking, have a wide color palette, and allow you to create interesting patterns on surfaces. Here you can use textured rollers for decorative plaster.
Decorative plaster: types of “Venetian” textures will allow you to decorate your interior in historical styles
Bark beetle application technology
Using a spatula, we put small portions of the working solution on the trowel and apply it to the walls with a quick, long movement. The pressure on the trowel should be small, just enough to feel the movement of the stones under your hand. We work without delay, covering an area of 1-1.5 m2 in one go.
Note:After each run of the trowel along the wall, a small amount of so-called “milk”, a mixture with no filler in it, will remain on the instrument. This residue is immediately thrown back into the container with textured plaster and mixed into the total mass. You cannot apply this milk directly from the trowel to the wall, since this area will not receive the desired texture in the future.
Applying mortar to the wall
Next, smooth out the solution. Here, again, milk will remain on the trowel. We already throw it into a separate bucket - it is already waste unsuitable for further work. The photo below shows the area of the smoothed solution and the amount of milk that has collected on the instrument.
Leveling the wet coating
Leave the smoothed surface to dry for about 10 minutes, and then proceed to create the texture using the same trowel:
- Rain - moving the tool strictly vertically.
- Crisscross - first vertically, then horizontally.
- The curves are in a semicircle, in different directions.
Applying texture
There is another way to grout relief plaster with your own hands: the video below talks about mechanized way applying texture.
Application of lambskin and pebble textured plaster
Here the technology will be the same, so we have combined both finishing options into one subsection.
- We put 3-4 spatulas of the working composition on the trowel.
- Apply the plaster to the wall using long strokes, lightly pressing the tool. We cover an area of 1 m2 at a time.
- Smooth out the applied material. We return the milk that accumulates on the trowel to the wall or throw it into a bucket. You should work like this until there is no more plaster left on the tool.
- We immediately apply the texture - with short movements in an arc.
How to apply textured plaster: video of lambskin finishing.
Wall decoration with Venetian plaster or its imitation
Thin-layer types of textured finishes require preliminary puttying. The walls must be perfectly smooth, without scratches, cracks or cavities. It is also necessary to apply a deep penetration primer. It should be painted the same color as the future plaster.
- Apply the second layer using short, rounded strokes. It must be very thin, so it is necessary to constantly remove excess mortar from the trowel.
- Take a foam roller and roll out the applied material.
- We wait about 5 minutes and use a clean trowel or wide spatula to rub the surface of the wall - we make ironing.
- The dried finish is treated with colored wax.
Applying textured plaster with your own hands: video of finishing walls under sandstone. The working composition is ordinary putty.
Note:Apply a deep penetration primer to the dry surface before further waxing. This will improve the adhesion of the compounds to each other.
Tools used when applying textured plaster
The standard set will be like this:
- A trowel 35-40 cm long - it is used to carry out the bulk of the work.
- Spatula-assistant - used for throwing the solution onto the trowel or onto the wall, depending on the situation.
- Wide spatula (40-50 cm) – used for ironing Venetian plasters.
- Drill with mixer attachment.
There are many options for decorating a house or apartment. Currently, the market for construction and finishing materials offers a wide range of solutions for gluing and covering walls. These include all kinds of tiles, panels and stripes, wallpaper, etc. However, to create a truly original and interesting interior without extra costs it is possible only with the help of textured plaster. It’s not difficult to figure out how to make textured plaster. There are many different ways to apply it and further decorate it, so you can create the interior you want. Do-it-yourself textured plastering of walls can be done without any particular difficulties or problems.
Small unevenness of the wall is hidden by textured plaster.
Features of working with textured plaster
Textured plaster, also known as structural and Venetian plaster, is a heterogeneous viscous composition of white color. It contains a binder and multi-fraction granules. Textured wall plaster allows you to create coatings with varying degrees of grain, rough texture, rich color palette. You can make textured plaster that will imitate the texture of stone, wood and other materials.
Textured plaster allows you to create coatings on walls that have different degrees of grain, rough texture, and a rich color palette.
Textured wall plaster does not limit your imagination. For example, you can add a special fine-grained material (the so-called “bark beetle”) to the mixture and decorate the surface to resemble wood eaten away by the beetle of the same name.
Textured plaster of walls can be done indoors and outdoors. For exterior finishing For walls with your own hands, it is best to use a mixture that contains calibrated granules. Interior decoration traditionally performed using plaster containing small unsorted granules or granules of different fractions.
A coating with a large calibrated filler is applied using a special grater or trowel. The layer of plaster, however, should not exceed the size of the contained granules. Textured plastering of walls using a material with mixed filler is performed using a trowel and a roller. The spraying technique is also used. In this case, the order of application depends on how thick the mixture used is.
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Fine-grained compositions are liquid solutions prepared on the basis of lime. They are easier to work with. This plaster can be applied using a vacuum cleaner or roller.
Tools for applying plaster.
When working with textured plaster, you need to imagine the desired result and implement it correctly.
Having decided what the finished wall plaster will look like, you can begin preparing tools and materials for the job.
Textured wall plaster is susceptible to moisture and dust, so it is not recommended to use it in the kitchen.
If such compositions are used to finish a bathroom, the finished coating must be protected with polymers or varnishes.
Textured wall plaster is performed on a properly prepared surface.
First of all, the wall must be leveled and primed: it is recommended to use a deep penetration primer.
After applying the primer, the wall must be allowed to dry.
There is a textured plaster that can be applied to walls with slight unevenness. However, if there are significant unevenness and level differences, they must be eliminated.
Textured plaster of walls is performed using the following tools:
- plumb lines and rules;
- ironers;
- building level;
- a set of spatulas of different sizes;
- corner spatula;
- graters
Applying base coat
Drawing of a lighthouse for plaster.
First, a uniform layer of plaster of the required thickness is applied over the entire wall or a separate section of it. At this stage, a smoothing iron is used. Minor errors are allowed. It is very easy to find out the required layer thickness. Determine the approximate thickness of the future pattern and add to this value at least 1.5 mm of the thickness of the solution that should be underneath it.
Practice on a small area before filling the entire required surface. This way you can choose the optimal thickness of the plaster layer and the order of application of the pattern.
Textured wall plaster takes a long time to dry, so you can easily apply the desired design. If ordinary cement-gypsum or cement-sand mortar is used, it is necessary to clearly think through your actions before applying it and divide the wall surface into several sections, which will be finished gradually.
Step-by-step instructions for adding texture
Scheme for applying plaster using a crumb thrower.
The technology for applying a pattern varies depending on what tool will be used and what result you want to get.
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You can add texture using a roller. An ordinary tool with bristles will do. With its help you will apply a unique design to the surface. If desired, you can additionally run a spatula over the top to smooth the finish a little. You can use rollers specifically designed for working with textured plaster. Such instruments already have an ornament and design. It is enough to roll the roller once along the height or length of the surface. You can apply multidirectional strokes to create a fragmented pattern. Using a roller can significantly reduce material consumption.
Textured plaster on walls is often done using stamps. There is an ornament or design on the working surface of such a tool. It needs to be applied to the wall and pressed so that the design is transferred to the plaster. As you work, you will need to frequently clean the tool from adhering plaster and moisten it with water. As a rule, such stamps come with soft rubber versions, which allow you to complete the ornament in narrow areas of the surface.
Textured plaster of walls can be done using a trowel, as well as various brushes and spatulas. An ordinary spatula allows you to turn the surface of a wall into a real work of art. The easiest way is to decorate the surface with natural stone. To do this, you need to move the spatula in arbitrary directions, giving the surface a free shape. You can slightly deepen the spatula into the plaster, creating smooth stripes of varying depths. Working with brushes and a trowel follows a similar pattern.
Textured plaster itself is white, and if necessary it is painted with colored pigments, paints or varnished.
If desired, various fillers can be added to the plaster solution. They will help you create the required drawing. For example, to decorate walls to resemble wood damaged by bark beetles, granite chips or polymer granules are added to the composition. This textured plaster is first applied to the entire surface using a trowel. You need to wait until it sets a little, and then rub it over the surface with a grater. This way the crumbs and granules will be drawn through the solution, thereby creating specific grooves. The furrows can have different directions or be horizontal or vertical, parallel to each other.