If you've ever set foot in a high-end home or office, chances are you've seen Venetian plaster. This luxurious finish is created by applying multiple thin layers of plaster to a wall or ceiling, then polishing the surface to a smooth, shiny finish. In this blog post, we'll give you a brief overview of what Venetian plaster is, how it's made, and some of its most popular applications.

What is Venetian Plaster?

Venetian plaster is a type of plaster that originates from Venice, Italy. It is made from a mixture of slaked lime putty and marble dust. Once mixed together, the mixture is applied to walls or ceilings in very thin layers (usually no more than 3 millimeters). After each layer dries, it is polished with a tool called a burnisher to create a smooth, shiny surface.

How is it Made?

The ingredients for Venetian plaster are simple- all you need is slaked lime putty and marble dust. The proportions of these two ingredients will vary depending on the desired color and finish of the plaster. To mix the ingredients together, simply combine the lime putty and marble dust in a container and stir until they are thoroughly combined.

Once the plaster is mixed, it can be applied to walls or ceilings using either a trowel or hawk and trowel. When applying the plaster, it's important to work in small sections and apply very thin layers (no more than 3 millimeters). After each layer dries, it should be burnished with a tool called a burnisher to create a smooth, shiny surface.

Applications for Venetian Plaster

Venetian plaster can be used in both residential and commercial spaces. Some popular applications for Venetian plaster include accent walls, fireplace surrounds, kitchen backsplashes, and ceiling details. Thanks to its durability and easy maintenance, Venetian plaster is also an ideal finish for high-traffic areas like entryways and powder rooms. 

Whether you're looking for an elegant accent wall or a durable finish for your commercial space, Venetian plaster might be the right choice for you. This type of plaster is created by applying thin layers of lime putty and marble dust to walls or ceilings then polishing the surface to create a smooth, shiny finish. Although it requires some patience and attention to detail during the application process, Venetian plaster is extreamly versatile and offers endless possibilities.