by Ravi Backerdan on June 13, 2022

Venetian plaster and regular plaster

What is the difference between Venetian plaster and regular plaster?

You have most likely heard about Venetian plaster earlier for letting you tumble upon our page. And it's also highly likely that your query is related to finding what is the difference between venetian plaster and regular plaster?


Today, we will discuss the difference between ventian plaster and regular plaster for you.

Fun Fact - Venetian Plaster means liquid marble.


What is Venetian Plaster?


Venetian Plaster looks like another variant of marble without the actual qualities of a real marble. It's made of lime putty and marble dust. When combined with natural elements, venetian plaster offers a striking impact like that of marble. It is also the reason why it is popular amongst homeowners looking for a budget-friendly option other than costly marble. Venetian plaster comes with various variants to achieve the sheen, texture, and shadings similar to marble. For enjoying the best venetian plaster decor, always opt for professional service providers.


The effect of venetian plaster can be enhanced by adding acrylic resins to complement the structural elements in residential houses and commercial hotels. The other reason for Venetian plaster’s popularity is its composition. This plaster type is manufactured with lime-based components which are less harmful and hypoallergenic, algae resistant.


What is Regular Plaster?


The most widely recognized sorts of mortar principally contain either gypsum, lime, or cement, yet all work likewise. The mortar is produced as a dry powder and is blended in with water to shape a hardened useful glue before its applied to the walls.


History of Venetian Plaster


In earlier times, after processing marble, its waste marble dust was used to create artificial marble. The classical venetian plaster became popular from the Renaissance period. Most of the structures in venetian plaster are composed using water, vegetable dyes and marble dust. By its appearance, it is hard to distinguish venetian plaster from marble. Natural venetian could not be used in facades due to its composition, but then the introduction of synthetic plaster changed everything.


The more modern plaster compositions include mixing a certain percentage of lime binders or acrylic binders that offer elasticity and support its application on interior structures as well. Today, the common domestic markets offer various coatings grouped under the name Venetain plaster which may not necessarily be the same as the traditional venetian plaster.


The difference in finishing style


  • Venetian plaster - coating is a pack full of wonders resembling architectures of venice city. It brings back the charm of the old world with its luxurious finish. The coatings can be applied using a spatula or trowel. Often requiring multiple layers until a smooth surface is achieved, the plaster produces the illusion of texture and depth.

    The excellent venetian plaster comes in variants of synthetic and lime-based which makes it easy for you to choose which type is best for your wall.

  • Regular plaster- Regular plaster finishes come in various types, textures depending on the wall. Some common types are- cellulose, mud based, cement based, stucco plaster, lime based or acrylic. All these types require careful application.

    1. Lime-based plaster is mold resistant and not prone to crumbling and cracks

    2. Cement-based plaster is durable and weather resistant but can be difficult to apply

    3. Acrylic based plaster is water resistant and easy to work with.

    4. Cellulose plaster is best for dampening sounds, controlling temperature but only good for interior walls.

    Venetian plaster is a more high-end wall treatment measure compared to regular plaster because it requires a skilled professional, while regular plaster can be created at home and applied by oneself.

The difference in methods of application


Regular plaster can be applied as- Three Coat Plaster, Two Coat Plaster, Single Coat Plaster, or Cement Plaster, and Cement Lime Plaster.


Approach- Apply the first coat of plaster between the spaces formed by the screeds on the wall surface. This is done by means of trowel. Level the surface using flat wooden floats and wooden straight edges. After leveling, leave the first coat to set and don’t let it dry. Roughen it with a scratching tool to form a key to the second coat of plaster.


Venetian Plaster can be applied by professional painters


The tools required for applying Venetian plaster

Equipment / Tools

  1. Steel trowel or 4- to 6-inch drywall knife
  2. Eye protection gear
  3. Gloves
  4. Roller brush
  5. Paint tray

Materials required for venetain paint application

  1. 400 to 600 grit sandpaper
  2. Venetian plaster
  3. Painting primer
  4. Spare cloth for cleaning
  5. Roller cover
  6. Universal colorants
  7. Topcoat or paste wax

Approach- Application of venetian plaster is a more creative and laborious process. Although application of venetian plaster does not require any dedicated artistic skills, desired results cannot be achieved without some experience.

Add the tint required, and mix the ingredients thoroughly. Starting from one corner of the room, and going all the way through the other end of the wall using a flexible steel trowel. You can use a 4- to 6-inch-wide drywall knife.

Apply the first thin coat of plaster while holding the trowel at a 15- to 30-degree angle to the wall. Let the paint dry before applying the next coat. Fill the high spots, voids using overlapping and short strokes keeping the knife at a 60-90 degree angle. Let the second coat dry for 24 hours. To finish up, apply the finishing top coat.

Rub the surface with a thin sandpaper in circular motion and clean the surface with a damp cloth. Applying the topcoat adds durability to the paint.


MGP's team of professionals guarantees you quality and expertise - they are just a call away! Schedule a FREE estimate today! Call 845.290.5284 or click here.

Recent Posts