Answers to common questions about applying, sealing and caring for our Venetian Plaster. See all FAQs.
What is Venetian plaster?
Venetian plaster is a blend of plaster and marble dust that creates depth and a smooth-to-the-touch finish, from soft suede-like matte to a glowing, marble-like sheen. Ours is zero-VOC, water-based and made in the US. The final look depends on whether you burnish it and which sealer you choose.
Can I apply Venetian plaster myself as a DIY project?
Yes. Our Venetian Plaster has a longer working time than traditional plaster, applies like a cream and allows for corrections, so it is manageable for DIYers. Most rooms can be finished over a weekend. Take your time and practice on a 4 oz sample jar first.
How to apply Venetian plaster →
Can I put Venetian plaster over painted walls or drywall?
Yes. It goes on interior drywall, previously painted walls and other surfaces once they are primed. Fill holes and sand repairs smooth first, because plaster shows the texture of the wall beneath it.
Can I use Venetian plaster on floors?
No. We don't recommend Venetian plaster for floors or any other surface you walk on.
Do I need a primer for Venetian plaster?
Yes. Roll on one coat of Venetian Plaster Primer, tinted to match your plaster color, so the plaster has something to bond to. It is a bonding primer, not a sealing primer, so new drywall and patches need a standard water-based primer first. Over glossy paint or a big color change, start with a bridging or blocking primer.
Do I use a trowel, knife or roller?
Use a plaster knife, not a roller, for the plaster itself. Our stainless steel Venetian Plaster Knife comes in 6", 8" and 10", and the flat end of the handle is made for burnishing. Use a microfiber roller for the primer and sealer.
How many coats of Venetian plaster do I need?
Two paper-thin coats, or three for richer color and more depth. The first coat often looks patchy; that is normal. Thin layers are what create the depth and translucency.
How long does Venetian plaster take to dry?
Each coat is usually dry to the touch in a few hours. Lightly sand any ridges, then apply the next coat. Let the final coat dry a full 24 hours before sealing.
How do I make Venetian plaster shiny?
Burnish it. As the final coat begins to set, rub the surface with a clean knife held nearly flat, using firm, overlapping strokes, to bring up a soft, marble-like sheen. A Semi-Gloss sealer also adds sheen. Skip burnishing if you prefer a matte look.
Do I need to seal Venetian plaster?
Seal bathrooms, kitchens, hallways and other high-traffic walls. Ceilings, bedrooms and low-traffic walls can be left unsealed because the plaster cures hard on its own. Roll on 2–3 thin coats of Protective Sealer in Matte or Semi-Gloss, letting each dry a couple of hours. Test on a sample first, since sealer can shift the color slightly.
Venetian Plaster Protective Sealer →
Can I use Venetian plaster in a bathroom, shower or kitchen?
Yes in bathrooms and kitchens, with sealer. It is not designed for showers, exteriors or anywhere water pools.
How much Venetian plaster do I need?
A gallon covers about 150–200 sq ft with two coats, and a quart about 40 sq ft. Primer covers about 350 sq ft per gallon and sealer about 300 sq ft per gallon. Coverage varies with your surface and technique.
Is Venetian plaster durable, and can I clean it?
Yes, it gives a long-lasting finish on interior walls. Sealed plaster is gently washable (wipeable, not scrubbable) and more resistant to scratches and moisture. The sealer is a breathable topcoat, not a waterproof or stain-proof coating. Tools clean up with soap and water.
Can Venetian plaster be repaired?
Yes, Venetian plaster is easily repaired. Our team can walk you through touching up a spot.
Venetian plaster vs limewash: which should I choose?
Limewash gives a soft, natural, textured look, is very DIY friendly and is easy to paint over when you want a change. Venetian plaster gives a deeper, more luxurious finish that can mimic polished stone, with lasting durability, but it takes a bit more practice.
Limewash vs Venetian plaster →
Still have a question?
Our team is happy to help, Monday–Friday, 8 am–4 pm CST, at Support@JamesAlexanderPaint.com or 855-695-5333.
