Getting a perfectly smooth plastered wall isn't magic — it's technique. Follow these steps for professional results.
1. Surface Preparation
Always start with a clean, dry, dust-free surface. Remove any loose paint or debris. For very smooth or non-porous surfaces, apply a bonding agent first.
2. Mix Your Plaster Correctly
Use clean, cold water. Add plaster to water (not the other way around). Mix to a smooth, lump-free consistency — like thick cream. Let it stand for 2 minutes before applying.
3. First Coat Application
Apply your base coat at 8–12mm thickness using a plasterer's trowel. Work in sections of about 2m² at a time. Score the surface with a nail scratcher before it fully sets to provide a mechanical key for the second coat.
4. Second Coat
Once the base coat has set but is still slightly damp, apply the finish coat at 3–5mm. Use a steel trowel for this coat and work with long, even strokes.
5. Final Polish
Dampen your steel trowel and burnish the surface in circular motions as the plaster is setting to achieve a mirror-smooth finish.
1. Surface Preparation
Always start with a clean, dry, dust-free surface. Remove any loose paint or debris. For very smooth or non-porous surfaces, apply a bonding agent first.
2. Mix Your Plaster Correctly
Use clean, cold water. Add plaster to water (not the other way around). Mix to a smooth, lump-free consistency — like thick cream. Let it stand for 2 minutes before applying.
3. First Coat Application
Apply your base coat at 8–12mm thickness using a plasterer's trowel. Work in sections of about 2m² at a time. Score the surface with a nail scratcher before it fully sets to provide a mechanical key for the second coat.
4. Second Coat
Once the base coat has set but is still slightly damp, apply the finish coat at 3–5mm. Use a steel trowel for this coat and work with long, even strokes.
5. Final Polish
Dampen your steel trowel and burnish the surface in circular motions as the plaster is setting to achieve a mirror-smooth finish.