Textured plaster – relief wall decoration that attracts the eye

For those wishing to give their walls a distinctive and striking feature, textured plaster has grown in popularity. Beyond just flat surfaces, this kind of wall décor offers an array of patterns and textures that can turn any space into an aesthetically spectacular one.

Textured plaster offers countless options, whether you’re looking for a delicate, sophisticated look or something striking and dramatic. Because of its adaptability, you can experiment with various looks and easily find one that goes well with your interior decor.

Not only does textured plaster look good, but it also has useful uses. It can provide an additional layer of durability and aid in hiding wall imperfections. Textured plaster could be the ideal choice if you want to give your walls a modern, elegant appearance.

Textured Plaster Type	Description
Venetian Plaster	A smooth, marble-like finish that adds elegance to any space.
Stucco Plaster	A rough, grainy texture perfect for adding character to exterior walls.
Roller Plaster	Applied with a roller for a patterned effect that is easy to customize.
Bark Beetle Plaster	A rustic, grooved texture that mimics the look of tree bark.

What is textured plaster and what is it used for

The fine-grained filler, delicate consistency, and compliance during installation are characteristics of textured mixtures. They are employed to produce relief surface finishes or flat surface finishes (Venetian or Moroccan, concrete-like plaster). When drying, the majority of textured plaster varieties do not shrink.

The decorativeness of flat coatings is largely dependent on the color and method of plaster mortar stroke application. The Venetian artwork by the author mimics a polished stone surface, silk fabric, or a surface that has aged over time. These coatings are ornamental and multilayered. Applying decorative mortar can be a complicated process that only experts can handle, or it can be made simple enough for novices to attempt.

Relief plaster shields the home’s walls, ceilings, and partitions from impacts and moisture intrusion. The decorative coating acts as a sound- and heat-absorbing screen while also masking some surface imperfections. The walls are adorned with relief finishing, which gives their surface distinctive color, light, and shadow combinations. This is an effective tool for design.

There are many methods for producing texture. It is not always necessary to use special compounds to create a three-dimensional coating. Many artisans use common putty to create textured plaster.

Advantages and disadvantages

The following are the benefits of using contemporary textured plaster as a finishing material:

• strength;
• durability;
• versatility;
• resistance to mechanical and chemical influences;
• eco-friendliness;
• seamless;
• noise-proof;
• low thermal conductivity;
• ability to mask small defects;
• can be done by non-professionals;
• unlimited potential for creativity;
• increased decorative qualities;
• low weight of the coating itself;
• uniqueness.

It has disadvantages as well. The difficult disassembly process, high cost of finished materials, and intricate repairs are the drawbacks. Given the lengthy lifespan of the coating, care must be taken in every step of the plastering process.

Varieties

Science has advanced, resulting in the creation of new finishing materials. The compositions of contemporary plasters used to create relief surfaces vary in a number of ways. The qualities that binders, additives, and fillers determine are what primarily separates them.

By appearance and the resulting effects

With basic techniques, you can create coatings that mimic the effects of bark beetle, rain, fur coats, roller plaster, etc. thanks to the decorative plaster mixtures that are produced.

Common textures have the following effects:

• antique stone;
• sandy bottom;
• tree bark;
• brickwork;
• stone cladding;
• reptile skin;
• coarse or fleecy fabric;
• geometric patterns.

To achieve more expressiveness, metallic or mother-of-pearl elements are added to plaster mixtures as fillers.

By application

There are two categories of compositions used to create decorative textures:

• facade plasters;
• universal;
• plasters for interior decoration.

Extreme weather conditions are encountered when applying finishing materials for facade decoration. As a result, scientists have created unique compositions that are resistant to the harsh elements of the outdoor world, such as strong winds, hail, heat, UV light, frost, and dangerous materials in a contaminated atmosphere.

Nevertheless, facade textured mixtures are also sometimes used indoors.

The premises don’t have as strict of requirements because they don’t need decorative plaster to last as long for interior wall decoration. This is the maximum amount of plaster material flexibility needed for fine, skillful processing (placing it easily), increased decorativeness, friendliness to the environment, vapor permeability, and cleanability. Furthermore, functional rooms’ interior textured plaster is subject to additional requirements. For instance, the plaster on the walls and ceiling of bathrooms needs to be waterproof; similarly, the interiors of living rooms and bedrooms need to be able to "breathe" freely; the kitchen needs to be able to keep out cooking smells; and stairwells need to be able to stably withstand mechanical impacts.

By filler size

The main mineral fillers used in plaster mortars are clays, quartz sand, and stone flour and chips.

Plaster mixes are categorized by filler particle size as follows:

• coarse-grained (granules 3-5 mm);
• medium-grained (grain 1.5-2.5 mm);
• fine-grained (fraction 0.5-1 mm);
• fine-grained (flour up to 0.5mm).

Plaster mortars with medium and coarse grains are typically utilized for external finishing, such as fences, gazebos, and facades. Marble plaster is an illustration of a coarse-grained plaster mixture. There are other kinds for interior design projects.

Mineral

Since pre-Roman times, binders like gypsum, clay, and lime dough have been known to exist. Although it was also used in antiquity, modern cements are man-made materials. Plaster mixes containing the specified materials are referred to as mineral mixes because they are members of the mineral class.

What sets mineral plaster apart is:

• environmental friendliness;
• air and vapor permeability;
• increased strength;
• incombustibility;
• water-repellent ability;
• high adhesion to any surfaces;
• increased sound insulation;
• resistance to bio-damaging factors;
• frost resistance;
• ability to retain heat;
• low price (cheaper than other mixtures).

Mineral solutions are white, gray, or brownish (from clay) when no color is added.

The mixtures are easily colored, but as they dry, they take on a pale color.

Cover with water. Dry mixtures need to be kept dry while being stored. readily available as dry mixtures on the market. Paper bags are used for packaging. Amount: up to 25 kg.

Silicate

The mineral is home to the species. However, because of the properties of the binder, liquid glass, silicate mixtures are categorized in a different class. Apply only externally since using it internally releases harmful substances.

Completely fulfills the purposes of decorative relief plaster when used outdoors:

• non-flammable;
• easy to clean;
• adheres well to mineral wool and polystyrene foam insulation;
• best for finishing cellular concrete and shell rock.

The primary drawbacks are that it solidifies too rapidly and that both the primer layer and the paints that are applied on top are silicate-based. low degree of flexibility. A ready-made or dry mixture can be purchased.

Silicone

The priciest plaster, but it also outperforms others in the majority of categories:

• durable (the old coating is removed only by cutting);
• elastic;
• universal;
• durable.

Silicone resins are the binding material.

Acrylic

Acrylic resin compositions are incredibly elastic and long-lasting. Waterproof, making it appropriate for bathrooms but inappropriate for bedrooms. less UV radiation resistant than mineral compositions. Additives are easily absorbed, painted, and simple to operate. Because resins contain flammable materials, fire retardants are mixed into the mixture. More costly than silicone, but less expensive than mineral.

Acrylic compositions need a good primer because water-soluble mixtures can easily become dehydrated when water is absorbed by a porous base. offered ready-made. possess a limited lifespan, so you must work with them continuously.

Textured plaster is a striking way to give walls character and depth, turning boring surfaces into expressive works of art. This adaptable material is a popular choice for individuals wishing to add a distinctive, fashionable finish to their interior spaces because it offers countless design options, ranging from delicate patterns to striking, three-dimensional effects.

Tools for work

Numerous instruments and apparatuses are available to impart texture to the applied decorative coating in a variety of ways.

Fundamental:

• spatulas (of various sizes, shapes, materials);
• graters;
• trowels with rounded corners;
• shaped rollers (for prints) and painters;
• brushes;
• masking tape;
• mixer;
• sponges;
• level;
• containers;
• rags.

Supplementary:

• respirator;
• gloves;
• covering material;
• insurance;
• masking tape.

When working at heights, think about your personal safety and obtain insurance.

Surface preparation

Small flaws in the base may be concealed by the wall relief. But first, the walls need to be ready for plastering.

• cleaned;
• repair chips, cracks;
• degrease;
• disinfected;
• coat with primer in two layers.

If the wall is uneven, it is first leveled using a sand and cement plaster. Specific standards for the base’s quality are needed for smooth coatings. Since even the smallest imperfection will be apparent, they require an absolutely flat surface.

Plaster consumption

This indicator "floats" depending on a number of variables, including the plasterer’s skill, the composition used, the type of relief, and the quality of the base. Use the consumption listed on the package as a general reference. Creating a test sample allows for the calculation or determination of consumption. It varies, beginning with the 0.14 kg/m2 consumption for flat Venetian plaster. Textured mixtures are consumed on average between 0.9 and 1.2 kg/m2.

How to apply textured plaster

There are numerous methods for applying volumetric plaster by hand. The instruments used, the method for applying the mixture, and the method for texturizing the laid mixture vary amongst applications of textured plaster. This can be achieved through the use of stencils, imprints, cutting, unique stroke application techniques, etc. to create relief. Particular molding can be used to create relief on the wall.

Roller

There are variations of this tool. There are rubber rollers with patterned reliefs that are used to leave impressions on the plaster mortar layer that has been laid down. The solution is applied to the wall using rollers, giving the appearance of a fur coat. Additionally, they have the ability to artificially "ruffle" a layer of plaster that has already been applied evenly.

As you work, don’t forget to mist the roller’s surface with water to keep too much composition from sticking to it.

There are options in the first scenario. You can either use a roller to perform an intermediate operation of creating some kind of texture, like tree bark, on the wall, or you can use it to roll over the surface of a slightly set plaster layer to make impressions (it is recommended to moisten the roller with water).

Stamps stencils

Silicone and other materials are used to create stamps and stencils that mimic stonework or the feel of wooden boards. Wet the stamp’s working surface, then apply it to the laid mixture’s surface, gently press it so that it sinks into the layer, and then remove it. This leaves a mark on the wall. On the wall’s adjacent section, the process is repeated.

Working with stencils requires a slightly different method. You have the option of getting a photo with a background that isn’t very tall, or you can make it purposefully appear very tall. In the second instance, a coating layer that has already been applied is covered by the stencil.

The wall is where the stencil is fastened. Next, using a roller or spatula, spread a layer of decorative mortar. Next, using a brush, sponge, hand, or other makeshift tool, decorate the mixture’s surface. Finally, carefully remove the stencil from the wall. Applying a different colored plaster mixture with stencils will result in a finish with colorful decorative patterns.

Trowel

A trowel is an incredible all-purpose tool. It is capable of producing a vast array of textures. It is made by applying the work surface to the newly applied layer and removing it from it; it can be used to smooth out the ridges made by a roller. Because of the viscous solution’s adhesion, it can be lifted and moved with arcuate motions. You can achieve a variety of textures with a trowel, including decorative plaster for fur coats, world maps, decorative travertine plaster, and lamb.

Venetian technique of two-color application

Easy to follow instructions:

1. The wall is prepared and primed as for wallpaper.
2. Dry.
3. Apply the first thin layer of the tinted composition.
4. Dry (at least 6 hours).
5. After the layer has dried, prepare two compositions of different colors.
6. Both compositions are applied in small quantities with a spatula on the trowel. With the trowel, using arcuate multidirectional movements, they are transferred with strokes to the wall. The first two strokes are applied at some distance from each other. Then fill the spaces next to them. After the first strokes, the colors on the trowel mix. There is no need to be afraid of this. Mixed compositions fill the voids between previously laid strokes or continue covering the wall. This is how the effect of a marble coating appears on the wall.
7. Dry the two-color layer.
8. Use a wide spatula to clean the wall from various lumps and sharp protrusions. If necessary, sand it down and remove dust.
9. Coat the surface with wax or varnish.

Acrylic compositions for the "Venetian" can be ironed on a fresh layer or varnished after they have dried.

Versailles technique

A 2-3 mm layer of the modeling composition is applied with a trowel to the surface primed with quartz primer. It is recommended to process the wall in small sections of 1-1.5 sq.m. After applying the composition, it is given a texture, for which you can use a plastic trowel. The pattern is formed by part of the working surface of the trowel. Arbitrary, sinuous movements of the trowel (without pressure) leave relief arc-shaped marks on the mortar. It is advisable not to make long passes of the tool, changing the direction of the stroke each time. The trowel is “glued” to the surface of the mortar, then slightly raised above it. The mortar material rises, stretches behind it, forming sinuous ridges and depressions. Such a coating can be made from ordinary putty.

Since the layer turns out to be quite thick, it needs to be allowed to dry for a couple of days. After this, first with a spatula, and then with sandpaper (No. 60), sharp protrusions are removed. Dust is removed, and the wall is primed with a roller with a deep penetration compound. After drying, the wall is painted with a composition of tinted primer with silver paint 1:1, which is applied with a roller along the tops of the relief. The final finishing of textured plaster for walls is done with varnish diluted with water (up to 30%) with the addition of glitter (1 h.l. per 1 liter). The varnish is rolled out with a foam roller.

With improvised means

Sometimes the most unexpected methods can be used to create the texture improvisedly. This can be accomplished by brushing or transferring the solution using the end-graining method, applying and pressing down crumpled polyethylene film or large-textured fabric (like matting), or using lumps of fabric or crumpled plastic bags. A tablespoon or even a standard comb can be helpful. Your imagination is boundless in this situation.

Textured plaster ceiling

The subtleties of ceiling finishing are unique. Plastics made of acrylic or polyvinyl acetate work better for finishing ceilings. Ceilings are another common use for gypsum mixtures. The textured plaster patterns on the ceiling are more graceful, and the reliefs are less prominent, so as to avoid giving the impression that the ceiling is oppressive and massive. Making sure the coating has a high level of adhesion requires extra care. Texture creation techniques are little different from hand-decorated wall techniques.

Decorating

Finishing techniques include painting, varnishing, and waxing. The plaster coating’s surface is further strengthened by finishing materials, which also enable washing. Plaster materials must be compatible with paints and varnishes. Plastered surfaces are also primed in order to use less paint and varnish.

Painting plastered relief walls

The work’s additional features are created by relief. Painting textured plaster is done in a way that allows the crumbling material to seep into all of the nooks and crannies during the initial application. A brush, roller, sponge, or spray gun are used for this. Overabundance material is covered to prevent drips. For the convex portions of the relief to be emphasized, a second coat of paint in a different color is typically required.

It is possible to tint paint before using it on textured plaster. Experts suggest selecting a color and then adding just a hint of black. This will make the painted surface’s overall tone more akin to its natural color, causing less ocular irritation.

The pigment must be added to the paint and then combined with a mixer. It is advisable to paint a test piece in a private setting.

Plaster finishes in two colors can be decorated using a variety of techniques. A different article will explain the various methods for painting a textured coating.

Bas-reliefs

Bas-reliefs are one of the more traditional decorative techniques. There are two ways to make a bas-relief: either purchase pre-made plaster molds or undertake the modeling yourself. You will need palette knives, wood cutters, chisels, and spatulas in different sizes for manual modeling. The best plaster compositions for bas-reliefs are those with fine-grained gypsum or other textures that lend themselves to modeling and grinding. Wax or varnish cannot be applied to a pre-plastered surface to improve adhesion of the applied composition. Stencils can be used or not used when modeling.

How to make textured plaster with your own hands

Many finishers make their own textured plaster using regular putty that they have around the house to avoid paying the high cost of buying textured compositions. It is roughly four times less expensive than what is purchased, without sacrificing quality. Making textured putty with your hands is not hard at all. Many materials can be used for this.

With PVA glue

Six kilograms of finishing dry putty should be added to a prepared container along with two liters of water to create the plaster composition. After using a mixer to mix the solution, add 200 g of PVA construction glue and stir once more. Once this composition has stood for approximately twenty minutes, it can be used. You can use the solution uncolored or colored.

With primer

You can add the same quantity of finishing putty to the completed primer. The final mixture has a consistency akin to sour cream after mixing. It is filled with grout for joints (you can add paint or use colored grout).

With plaster

Transfer 6 kg of dry putty and 2 liters of water into a container and stir. To the resultant mixture, add PVA construction adhesive in a 200 ml glass. For twenty minutes, the textured putty is combined and "infused."

With baby

If you need a composition with stone chips, you can make it by combining putty with the necessary percentage of crumbs (4:1). The mixture should be thinned out with water until a creamy consistency is achieved. Before using, the mixture is allowed to stand and is stirred once more. It is not advised to color this mixture. After drying, the coating is painted.

Popular manufacturers

Many businesses and enterprises produce textured plaster compositions. Russia’s most well-known manufacturers are:

• German brands Cerezit, Knauf, Dufa Modellierputz, ALPINA,
• Russian VGT, Bayramix, Parade, Bolars, Optimist
• Italian San Marco,
• Polish BILIX.

Repair of texture defects

One drawback of textured plaster coating is its difficulty in repair. It is impossible to select the precise color to match the prior color if you are still able to recreate the decorative texture in a less noticeable way. It is advised to repaint the entire wall in this situation.

To identify areas of peeling paint, use a rubber hammer (you can also use the plastic handle of a spatula or chisel). All of the loose material has been eliminated. The exposed base is primed, dried, cleaned, and repaired. They use the same for the "patch"

In order to fix a flaw, you must tap the wall to locate areas where the coating is peeling. Remove peeling areas with caution. Fix the base if required. Prime, arid. To ensure good adhesion, wet the edges of the old coating with water before applying the "patch."

Applying the plaster composition should be done with the same foundation as before.

Making patches in the shape of a rectangle is preferable. You should practice on a small area so that you can restore the pattern.

Any interior can be creatively and adaptably enhanced with textured plaster. It’s a popular option for people who want to make a statement with their decor because of its capacity to add character and depth to walls.

Textured plaster comes in a variety of textures and application methods that complement both modern and rustic design elements. It gives a space a more polished appearance while also offering a long-lasting and robust finish.

It’s easy and affordable to add textured plaster to your home and make a distinctive and eye-catching space. This wall treatment has the ability to turn any space into a work of art, regardless of your preference for muted or striking patterns.

Video on the topic

DECORATIVE PLASTER for an ACCENT WALL / 3D SUEDE / Textured plaster, master class 2024