Decorating houses with decorative plaster is gaining momentum. Decorative plastering of walls is done not only in private houses, but also in apartments. In this regard, many are interested in what kind of material it is and what it is intended for.

What is decorative plaster? This is a special, plastic mixture, often with the addition of various kinds of stones, mica, etc. It is intended for decoration and decoration of walls, less often ceilings. How does it differ from ordinary plaster? Let's read its composition.

Decorative plaster is made from:

• Lime, cement, gypsum, acrylic, silicate and others - as a binder. It is they who ensure the adhesion of the plaster to the surface. Gypsum is used very rarely due to the fact that such a mixture will quickly harden. And there will be difficulties with drawing a picture or pattern.
• Fillers - Most types of decorative plaster contain fillers such as sand, mica, marble chips, pebbles, etc. They serve to give the plaster the very decorative effect.
• Additives can be anti-foaming agents, plasticizers, etc.
• And finally, water is the solvent for this whole mixture.

Simply put, decorative plaster differs from ordinary plaster only as a filler. But it is these components that make it unique. What distinguishes decorative plaster from traditional types of finishing materials, such as, for example, wallpaper.

Wallpaper or decorative plaster

If you are faced with a difficult choice of material for wall decoration, choosing between decorative plaster and wallpaper imitating it, we invite you to compare them to make the right decision.

First, the price of the material. The simplest wallpaper for decorative plaster is cheaper than the plaster itself. However, not all so simple. If you count in the sum the preparatory work for gluing wallpaper, puttying, stripping, glue, etc., then the benefits will not be so striking. The only exception will be the Venetian decorative plaster. Here wallpaper a "Venetian" will cost much cheaper than the original.

Secondly, the service life. Here, decorative plaster has a clear advantage. It will serve you for at least 30 years. And some of its types are up to 50-60 years old. The wallpaper will have to be changed at most after 15 years. And in most cases, after 5-10 years. By the way, calculate and include the change of wallpaper in the paragraph above about comparing the price of materials.

Third, the care of the finish. Decorative plaster can be easily washed and cleaned. Wallpaper not of all types can boast of this.

Fourth, this is the uniqueness of the resulting decorative plaster pattern. Wallpaper has a finite number of types of patterns.

You can still enumerate the advantages and disadvantages of both decorative plaster and wallpaper for decorative plaster for a long time, but the conclusions are already clear. If you want simplicity and cheapness - wallpaper is your choice. There is an opportunity to spend money, if you want uniqueness in decor and durability - finish with decorative plaster.

Types of decorative plaster

All decorative plaster is divided into two large groups.

Types of decorative plaster.

• decorative plaster for interior work
• decorative plaster for outdoor use

The difference between these two types of plaster is that the external decorative plaster is more resistant to UV radiation, i.e. less fading in the sun. And also facade decorative plaster withstands "wet" weather conditions much better. It is resistant to rain, snow, etc.

Due to its properties, there are fewer types of decorative plaster for the facade of the house. Therefore, we will consider options for decorative plaster for interior decoration. Because they also include options for the facade of the house.

Types of interior decorative plasters

1. Embossed - so called because the pattern they create is embossed. Subdivided into subspecies:

• Structural decorative plaster - the pattern is obtained mainly from the composition of the decorative plaster. Pebbles, quartz sand and the like in the mixture give the pattern a certain structure when applied. Typical representatives are decorative plasters "Bark beetle", "Fur coat", "Lamb".
• Textured decorative plaster - this type of decorative plaster is distinguished by its fine-grained and plasticity. Here the pattern is obtained through a special technique of applying plaster. To do this, use both improvised means - brushes, film, sponges, etc., and industrial special products - rollers with a certain pattern stencil.

2. Smooth - accordingly, the pattern is smooth. The representative is "Venetian" decorative plaster imitating finishing with marble or onyx.

Decorative plaster for interior wall decoration and for facade decoration also differ in their composition. Depending on the main bonding element, decorative plasters are divided into the following types:

• Acrylic decorative plaster - contains acrylic resins. It has good protection against water and moisture, but has poor air permeability. Low abrasion resistance compared to other types of decorative plaster. Low fire safety.
• Mineral decorative plaster - consists mainly of cement, lime and gypsum. Good, natural plaster, suitable for finishing rooms with normal humidity. On the facade, in the bathroom and in the kitchen, it requires additional protection in the form of painting, varnishing, etc. Good air permeability makes the indoor climate healthy and pleasant.
• Silicone decorative plaster is a universal mixture for any premises and building facade. Good vapor permeability, moisture resistance and abrasion resistance make this type of decorative plaster suitable for any finishing work.
• Silicate decorative plaster is another versatile mixture for indoor and outdoor decoration. Not afraid of water, sunlight, antistatic. But it takes skill to apply, as the plaster hardens quickly.

We hope you figured out the types and types of decorative plaster. Let's see a photo of decorative plaster in the interior.

Decorative plaster in the interior

With the help of different types of decorative plaster and its application methods, very different design effects can be achieved. Here everyone will find the pattern that they like. However, keep in mind: often the samples of decorative plaster in the store and what you end up on the wall may not match. After all, each application of decorative is different from the previous one. But despite this, it is possible to generalize the resulting effects.

Decorative plaster effects

• Venetian plaster. It looks like a polished stone or marble surface. Apply on any surfaces prepared for its application.
  
  
• Travertine effect. Complete imitation of a stone called travertine. Its porous surface and light pale color make it a great decoration for a room.
  
  
• Concrete effect. With the help of this type of plaster, there is an absolute imitation and creation of the effect of a concrete wall.
  
  
• Skin effect. For lovers of discreet luxury, this look is perfect. Thanks to its texture, it conveys well and creates the effect of a wall covered in leather. At the same time, thanks to the variety of tools, with the help of decorative plaster in the interior of the room, it is possible to create an imitation of different types of leather.
  
  
• Wood effect. Incredibly accurately simulates the appearance of wood, due to the accuracy of the transfer of small details and patterns of the plant.
  
  
• Silk effect. To create it, a mother-of-pearl coating is used, which, smoothly shimmering, creates the feeling that the wall is covered with silk.
  
  
• Brickwork effect. It is popular due to its low cost in comparison with real brick and accurate imitation of the presence of brick in the interior.
  
  
• Bark beetle effect. Using this technique, you can get a pattern that imitates the effect of a surface damaged by a bark beetle.
  
  
• Orange peel effect. Ideal for painting for oriental interior design.
  
  
• Wave effect. Simulates the look of a sea wave. With the right choice of paint, it looks very nice on the surface.
  
  
• Flowers effect. Decorative plaster "flowers" is used in frequent cases and stands out among the general variety of styles of decorative plaster. When creating a pattern, the shape and appearance of the flower depends solely on the spatula used and the movement of it. In this case, there is no reference to color and shape. You can decorate and paint the finished wall either in one color or using different techniques.
  
  

The types of finishing with decorative plaster are very diverse. Some use ready-made, template forms, while others can create their own art and create patterns that are pleasant specifically for his soul.

The use of decorative plaster in the interior of rooms

Decorative plaster in an apartment performs one of the main functions of interior decoration. Correctly selected design of decorative plaster will make the interior even more beautiful and perfectly complement the style taken as a basis. Also, each room of the apartment requires an individual approach due to the peculiarities of its location and external characteristics.

Using this type of finishing material in the kitchen will be an excellent choice, since it washes well and looks decent enough on the wall surface. Types of plaster used for decoration: Venetian, with imitation of marble or stone surface; imitation silk, plaster with fine or large crumbs, etc.

The main thing to emphasize is that decorative plaster should be applied only to one wall of the room, so as not to make the kitchen too "heavy" and not to spoil the design of the room.

Often, when finishing with decorative plaster, Venetian plaster or different textured types that are convenient to wash are used for the bathroom.

Decorative plaster in the hallway, as well as in the corridor, form the main impression of the design of the apartment. Speaking about the types of decorative plaster in rooms of this type, we can name the main ones that best meet the requirements (resistance to cold, moisture and good maintenance): the effect of velvet and silk, the effect of "bark beetle" and Venetian plaster.

Decorating the balcony with decorative plaster allows you to keep the design in harmony with all the rooms of the apartment. Also, it performs an excellent heat preserving function, it is quite simple to operate and maintain, it is soundproof and, at the same time, allows the walls to breathe. Plasters of various types are used to decorate the walls, from textured ones, with imitations of different plants and reliefs, to, for example, imitations of stone or brick.

DIY decorative plaster

If store-bought options for decorative plaster for some reason do not suit you, perhaps you are thinking about how to make decorative plaster with your own hands. Well, everyone can do it. Plus, you can save a lot on materials. Let's make a reservation right away, decorative plaster made on our own will not be as high-quality and durable as the factory material. But the service life of such a decor in 10-15 years is quite suitable for most people. Especially considering the relative cheapness of such a finish.

So how do you make decorative plaster? It all depends on what kind of room you want to decorate with self-made decorative plaster. Or maybe you want to finish the facade? In these cases, the material used will differ.

Do-it-yourself decorative plaster for interior decoration is made either from gypsum or from cement putty or plaster.

For finishing living quarters with normal humidity, do-it-yourself decorative plaster from ordinary putty is suitable. It is made like this:

• We take the same amount of starting and finishing plaster putty. Plaster plaster can be used instead of the starter filler. Then you get the so-called decorative plaster from ordinary plaster. Usually they mean gypsum plaster.
• A mixture of putties is poured into a bucket of water at room temperature or add them alternately.
• You can add some diluted wallpaper glue. This will improve mold and mildew resistance. And it will slightly increase the time of using the mixture.
• Mix everything well with a mixer or a drill with a nozzle.
• The resulting mixture should be the consistency of ordinary sour cream.
• Do-it-yourself decorative plaster from ordinary putty is ready!

Important! Decorative plaster prepared in this way dries rather quickly. Prepare the amount of solution that you can apply in 10-15 minutes. It will be even better if you apply the plaster together: one applies the base coat, the second immediately draws.

This decorative plaster can also be used in rooms with high humidity, such as kitchens and bathrooms. But it will definitely need to be protected with a water-repellent varnish.

This type of plaster is not suitable for finishing the facade. But you can replace the gypsum plaster with ordinary tile glue. Any type of cementitious adhesive will do for bonding ceramic tiles. For greater plasticity and increased adhesion, add a little primer to the water.

From such a mixture, for example, you get a decorative plaster bark beetle with your own hands, if you add a small stone of a fraction of about 2 mm to it.

Important! Do not forget that the decorative plaster that you have made will need to be protected from moisture with facade paint.

How to apply decorative plaster

Regardless of whether you made decorative plaster yourself or bought ready-made plaster in a store, applying decorative plaster is the same.

First, you need to learn how to properly apply decorative plaster. This knowledge will help you get to know the process better and control workers. And all the more they will come in handy if you will be finishing with decorative plaster with your own hands.

Let's prepare the necessary tools for decorative plaster:

• Building bucket
• Trowel for decorative plaster
• Spatulas
• Ironer
• Rollers for decorative plaster
• Masking tape (tape)
• Decorative plaster wax
• Mixer or drill with attachment
• Decorative plaster varnish
• Stencils for decorative plaster

It is possible that you do not need everything from the list. It depends on the type of plaster you are using and on which decorative plastering technique will be used. For example, if you expect to apply decorative plaster with a roller, then you need it. If the decoration will be done with improvised means, then add them to the appropriate list.

So how do you apply decorative plaster to your walls? Or maybe you need decorative plaster on the ceiling? Let's try to summarize the processes that need to be performed regardless of the type of plaster and the place of its application.

• preparation for decorative plaster - includes preparation of walls or ceilings, preparation of tools, masking tape over the contours for decoration.
• preparation of decorative plaster - be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions, if available. It contains useful information such as the consumption of decorative plaster per m2, the required amount of water and other proportions, the time for working with the mixture, the drying time of the decorative plaster, and much more.

Let's consider some of the nuances in more detail. Decorating the walls with decorative plaster with your own hands begins with the preparation of the base. Whether walls or ceilings, they should be free of large potholes, cracks or sagging. Old finishes should be sanded and the surface primed. If you want to apply decorative plaster with your own hands on drywall, then putty the joints and caps from the screws. Walls for decorative plaster are not prepared as carefully as the ceiling. The thing is that a slightly larger layer of decorative plaster is usually applied to the walls than to the ceiling. And it perfectly hides minor imperfections: scratches, peeling putty, etc.

An exception is the application of Venetian plaster. In this case, the walls as well as the ceiling should be as flat and clean as possible.

Methods for applying decorative plaster

Do-it-yourself decorative internal plaster is applied to the prepared surface with a spatula and a trowel. You can use a trowel. In some cases, a spray gun is used if spraying is to be applied. In any case, the technology for applying decorative plaster at the initial stage is the same. First, apply the base layer, the base. This layer is made continuous. It is then decorated until dry. The way of decorating depends on the type of your plaster and your imagination.

If you are doing decorative plastering of the walls with your own hands for the first time, practice on a piece of drywall or on the part of the wall that will be covered with furniture. As you gain experience, move on to the rest of the areas.

The technology for applying Venetian decorative plaster is somewhat different. It is applied in thin layers with a rubber spatula with neat multidirectional strokes. There can be 5-8 such layers. Before applying the next layer, the previous one is allowed to dry well.

Facade decorative plaster

It is not difficult to finish the facade with decorative plaster yourself. The main difficulty lies in working at a height if your house is taller than one floor. The very same decorative plaster of the house outside, practically does not differ from the technology of applying decor inside the room. Let's look at the plastering of the facade of a house with a decorative example of the most popular type: the application of decorative plaster bark beetle.

How to apply decorative plaster bark beetle

First, prepare the surface as described above: level out large elevation differences and clean. Then apply primer. It is better if it is a soil with quartz sand. Prepare a mixture of decorative plaster. Apply the plaster with a trowel in a small layer. Let the bark beetle dry a little and start decorating.

Move the trowel over the plaster in a rotating motion. Alternatively, only vertical or horizontal movements can be made. It all depends on what kind of drawing you want to get in the end. Movements should be without strong pressure.

Painting decorative plaster

There are no special secrets in painting decorative plaster. We think everyone will cope with this task. Just choose the right paint for facade or interior work, as well as the hairiness of the roller. A continuous background is made with a roller with a long pile. If you want to paint only the top protruding layer, use a foam roller and paint without pressing the roller hard against the wall.

Repair of decorative plaster

Decorative plaster periodically requires repair or restoration. Cracks, swelling, peeling and chips appear on it. It is not difficult to repair the damaged area with your own hands.

If you notice any swelling in the plaster, use a wooden mallet all over the wall and listen to how it sounds. A dull sound will tell you which area is peeling. This area of ​​damaged plaster should be removed using a hammer drill, chisel, hatchet, etc. Then clean the wall with a wire brush and prime. Before applying a new composition of decorative plaster, moisten well not only the cleaned area with warm water, but also the adjacent plaster for better adhesion of materials to each other.

Try to decorate and repeat the drawing from earlier. To make the difference in the pattern not so noticeable, repair the plaster by beating off a rectangular area.

After the plaster has completely dried, it must be repainted. This will mask the seams and discontinuities in the layers.

Cracks in decorative plaster are repaired in a similar way. The crack should be widened and all the measures described above should be carried out.

How much does decorative plaster cost

The price of decorative plaster varies greatly from manufacturer, country of origin and type of plaster itself. The cheapest decorative plaster costs about USD 2 per kg / l. The best decorative plaster from well-known Italian manufacturers can go up to a hundred or more dollars per kilogram or liter.

On average, such prices can be announced: a simple embossed plaster will cost about $ 5, and a Venetian one about 15 per kg / liter.

Prices for work with decorative plaster are less scattered and depend on the type of plaster and the qualifications of the master. The average price for work with decorative plaster is $ 10-30 per square meter. "Venetian" is more expensive than working with textured plaster. However, take into account the preparation of the surface and the subsequent protection of the decorative plaster with wax, varnish, paint, etc.

Decorative plaster reviews

Our description of decorative plaster should have helped you decide whether you need such a finish, whether it suits your home. And if you answered "Yes" to these questions, then most likely you asked yourself a question: decorative plaster, which is better?

Reviews of real buyers and users play an important role in the choice of decorative plaster. Those who have been living with decorative plaster for several years and can tell you what nuances should be taken into account. Or to warn against buying this or that type of decorative plaster, against buying from a certain manufacturer or retail chain.

Here are some typical reviews for decorative plaster:

We made ourselves a green-tinted venice in the bathroom. It looks gorgeous. The tiles would be completely different. And decorative without seams and so changes color from lighting, feast for the eyes. The truth and the cost was considerable. But they were ready to pay for the beauty.

I decorated my toilet with textured plaster. I did it myself after reading articles on the Internet and watching master classes. It lay perfectly on the plastered walls, but the LSU box could not be finished. The glass-magnesium sheets had to be plastered on the floor, because there are streaks from the decorative plaster.

I made the plaster myself and applied it myself. The whole family was decorated and are very pleased with the result. No one else has and never will have such patterns. And it turned out very budgetary, I did not expect it.

The thing is certainly remarkable, but the price is exorbitant. I will stick wallpaper for myself as a decoration. Cheaper and more practical.

We made decorative plaster in the kitchen. The walls look very interesting. But the apron would be better made of tiles. Tired of washing the fat near the stove. Don't repeat my mistakes.

Do-it-yourself decorative plaster from ordinary putty is gaining more and more popularity as an affordable type of decoration, since almost everyone is looking for a middle ground when making repairs in their home, and the optimal price-quality ratio.

Benefits of homemade plaster

Modern renovations are expensive in terms of both purchased materials and hired labor. The work of a plasterer-finisher costs a lot of money. Everyone's desire to save money is understandable and reasonable: no one wants the repairs to take many months, if not years, because of the high cost of the material and the work done. So that he does not become a family curse, you need to look for the most rational way out of this situation. However, the way out is obvious: to make the material yourself. It is this option that will suit the vast majority of people who want to make an inexpensive and beautiful renovation of their apartment.

There are plenty of tools for this, and it is not difficult to acquire them - there would be a desire to complete the pattern.

The use of textured and textured rollers

A simple way to make textured plaster from ordinary putty with your own hands is to use a special roller. It is quite easy to get the desired finish in this way.

Depending on the working surface of this tool, the desired result is obtained - the coveted pattern on the wall.

Rollers differ in their material of manufacture:

In addition to the listed rollers, there are also tools made of foam rubber, fabric, polyethylene, with a spirally fixed cord. With their help, you can achieve a rough surface with a pattern.

Important! Do not press too hard on the tool during operation - a clear drawing is obtained only with minimal effort. The tool must be guided from top to bottom without stopping, pressing firmly against the already finished strip.

These tools fall into two categories:

Homemade finishing tool

It is not necessary to use only those tools that are sold in stores. With waste materials on hand, you can make a roller that will create an unusual, unique pattern.

You can use, for example, a ready-made roller, but make your own adjustments to its design. Examples:

There are as many options for such homemade creativity: polyethylene, twine, rope, threads are used. The foam roller can be used to cut abstract shapes, slits, and more.

Important! When working with structured and textured rollers, you need to work smoothly, without making any sudden movements.

Other necessary tools

You can apply a pattern using other devices:

In addition to the above tools, you can use a lot more, from a brush-brush to a Venetian trowel (trowel). Even a simple broom can give a wall a distinctive design.

Decorative plaster from ordinary putty

Of course, you should not discount simple types of finishes, which are quite attractive in appearance, using the most common putty, both starting and finishing. How to make textured plaster with your own hands? It is very simple, and this option has been widely used recently. "Branded", ready-to-use putty costs about three times more expensive than usual, and it will not be difficult to make it yourself.

Now let's talk about how you can make it and how to work with a homemade mixture.

Materials for decorative plaster from putty:

• PVA glue - 200 g.
• Gypsum-based mixture - 6 kg.
• Water - 2l.

First, we apply a layer, which is called the main one - this is done with a wide spatula. When this layer dries up, we start decorating. There are various ways to create a textured surface. The composition can be applied with spatulas of various sizes and textures - from smooth to serrated. They can be combined.

You can do this with one spatula, applying strokes in different directions. Even the most ordinary broom, as already mentioned, is used to create a pattern, and the result is achieved when impressions are made on the plaster with a broom - from chaotic to strictly directed strokes.

There are a lot of application methods, you either need to choose the one that you like.

Decorative putty application

Each of us would like to get a wonderful appearance of our own home at a minimal cost. One of the easiest methods to get what you want is to buy a finishing putty. It is the finishing one, if the purpose of finishing is a soft texture.

There are many ways to get a beautiful surface when using decorative wall putty. Here is one of them, quite popular.

Instruments:

• Brush brush.
• A napkin rolled up in a cone or a trowel (trowel).

It is still better to work together, because you need to do everything quickly, not allowing the mixture to dry out prematurely, so that no transitions are visible. Indeed, one of the main advantages of this finish is the absence of joints on the surface.

Of course, this option is far from the only one. It's all about your personal preference and taste. Your imagination should work for you!

Different application methods

How to do:

• The plaster is dried before painting.
• If there is such a need, it must be processed with fine-grain sandpaper.
• Paint is applied in two layers. The base coat - a dark shade - is applied with a long-nap roller.
• After complete drying - a lighter color. The roller is short-naped.

Painting methods:

Everything will depend on the drawing. In any case, the background paint is applied in two layers. After finishing the work, two layers of varnish are applied.

Of course, a homemade composition is simple to manufacture, and gypsum-based mixtures are inexpensive, but they will not replace 100% branded decorative putty for walls, which contains marble and granite chips. In no case should it be compared, for example, with Venetian plaster, which is applied only by masters, and even then not by all. But nevertheless, the option described above is available to everyone who wants to add variety to the interior of their home. It will give odds to both wallpaper and painting, both in appearance and in the durability of the coating.

There are many ways to decorate a house, but decorative plasters are becoming more and more popular lately. They are very diverse, they allow you to create walls and ceilings that are unique in appearance. Different types give different effects, plus the application of decorative plaster can also be different. The result is a huge number of variations for any interior in any style.

Types of decorative plaster

Decorative plaster - a marvelous interior decoration

Decorative plaster is used for finishing walls and ceilings indoors, building facades. The basis can be various substances of both natural (gypsum, cement, marble dust) and artificial (acrylic, silicone, silicate) origin. It is called so because it forms an attractive surface with a different texture - from smooth as marble Venetian plaster to embossed stone or "under a fur coat". The number of options is endless - the application of decorative plaster is a creative process and it is unlikely to be repeated exactly. This is another plus of this type of finish.

By the type of surface formed, the following types of decorative plaster are distinguished:

• Embossed. After applying such compositions, some inhomogeneities and irregularities are often formed on the surface, that is, a relief is created. Their plus is the low requirements for the preparation of the base. It must be strong, must not crumble. There should also be no significant differences, but perfect smoothness is not required.
  
• Smooth. In this category, there is only one subspecies - Venetian plaster, but they allow them to create surfaces with a different appearance. It is a plastic mass, often translucent. It contains dust of marble, malachite and other natural materials. It can be used to imitate marble, cork, leather, silk, precious woods, various metals, finishing with malachite, granite.

  

It must be said right away that textured and plastic plasters are often difficult to separate, since different techniques can be used on the same composition. The photo below shows options for only one type of plaster - different techniques for applying decorative plaster allow you to get surfaces that are very different in appearance.

Some decorative plasters are so flexible that they can be used to create a piece of art. The result is very beautiful and original panels.

A few touches ...

By changing the application of decorative plaster, all these various reliefs are obtained - from simple to complex.

It is worth considering their division according to the area of ​​application. There are two large groups - for outdoor and indoor use. There are also universal formulations, but rarely. Almost all the compositions mentioned above are for interior work. These are more interior solutions. Some of them are abrasion-resistant, some can be washed with detergents and even brushes, but they will not withstand the harsh outdoor conditions.

Some types of textured plaster are suitable for external use - bark beetle, for example. This type of finishing material is just one of the universal. It can also be seen on the facade, indoors. In apartments, these are usually corridors and, in offices and institutions, corridors or service areas can be decorated in this way.

An example of finishing a house with decorative plaster from the outside: stone plaster on the basement, above - on the walls - bark beetle

Putties for outdoor use generally have a coarser structure, contain components that increase resistance to UV and other climatic influences. In this category there are specific plasters - stone. They consist of small fractions of natural stones in a binder solution. The application of this type of decorative plaster is simply a trowel or a stainless float. Other elements are rarely used. On facades and fences, creating reliefs is not a good idea - the dust will clog and spoil the appearance, and it is not easy to wash it out.

Surface preparation

Different types of decorative plaster require different degrees of surface preparation. But we can definitely say that it is necessary to remove everything that can fall off. The surface must be solid, dry and clean, and must not peel off. Also a mandatory step is a primer. And not with any composition, but with a special one, which creates a rough coating. It improves adhesion (adhesion).

For embossed (structural and textured)

For all embossed walls or ceilings, you can especially not level them. The composition is applied in a fairly decent layer - up to 1 cm, so it hides drops of up to 8-9 mm. But, in order to reduce the consumption of an expensive composition, it is still recommended to remove large irregularities. The protrusions are constrained, the pits are covered with suitable plaster. Next, an obligatory stage is coating with a primer. After drying, you can start applying the decorative plaster.

Structural plaster is usually applied in two layers. The first - basic - fits evenly and dries. The thickness of the layer is specified by the manufacturer, it is usually set with some kind of tolerance. This layer also serves as a leveling layer, but again, in order to reduce costs, it is better to level the surface first. The second layer is already applied a little thinner, and a relief begins to form on it.

But not all structural plasters are two-layer. On many, you can form a relief immediately after application, without a base coat. Usually the recommended layer is somewhat thicker in this case.

Venetian plaster

Compositions of this group require a perfectly flat surface. Not as smooth as paintable, but almost as smooth. Small differences are allowed - no more than 2-3 mm per square meter. standard - first, a layer of plaster (ordinary) is applied to the walls, a painting net is sunk into it. After drying, a leveling layer is applied - until a perfectly even state. Next - the primer, and after this layer has dried - the application of Venetian plaster.

Application techniques

It is impossible to tell about each method of applying decorative plaster - there are a lot of different details and nuances. The simplest case is with textured plasters. They are simply applied with a spatula. The whole difference is in the direction of movement of the spatula, in the depth of the barbs that leave blotches, and in color. But this is in the basic version. Nobody bothers to experiment with these compositions. Another thing is that the structural effect of the same actions is more impressive - more plastic compositions.

What can be used to create a decorative effect

The application of decorative plaster is possible with many tools and common household materials and devices made from them:

• Metal trowels and floats. They are used not only to apply the composition in an even layer, but also to form geometrically chaotic patterns on it.

  

• Construction floats made of plastic, polystyrene. They smooth out the freshly formed overly protruding relief.
• Fine grit sandpaper. Also for leveling the relief, but on already dried material. Compared to the previous method, the effects are different.
• Foam sponges. They are multifunctional. They can:
  
• Cellophane films and bags. Also a multifunctional tool:
  • By spreading a thin soft plastic wrap on freshly applied decorative plaster, you can form a relief with your hands. It can be some kind of abstraction or something with some motive. When the relief is ready, the film is carefully removed, the relief is left to dry.
  • Crumpled paper is wrapped in plastic. A simple but effective tool for the formation of a non-uniform and chaotic pattern is obtained. Different application techniques can be used - circular motions, short "pokes", waves, strokes, comets, tails, etc.
  • Just crumpling cellophane, but already more rigid and "poking" it into the plaster, we get a surface that is somewhat reminiscent of the moon.
• Rollers. Usual foam or fur rollers are used, as well as special ones with some kind of pattern. Regular are used to create a base relief, over which more pronounced strokes are then applied. The type and shape of the "basic" relief depends on the length of the pile. When rolling with a foam roller, small protrusions-depressions are obtained. When rolling, shaggy - more pronounced. The longer the pile, the greater the differences.

  

  Different rollers, different surfaces

• Hands in rubber gloves. any pattern can be made. The task is to repeat more or less similar on the rest of the plane.

  

• Brushes. You can get stripes, waves and a bunch of other appearance options.

Principles of relief formation

Decorative plaster is attractive because it allows you to create a unique pattern - you can use your own imagination. To make this drawing look harmonious, you need to know some general rules. Good manufacturers in the description of each composition have rules for working with it. It describes the procedure, methods of application, techniques for forming decorative surfaces.

A simple way - rolling with a roller with a pattern formed on it

Large firms (manufacturers or shopping centers) hold master classes, where everyone can try to work with a specific decorative plaster, which is also provided there, and not experiment "on the spot." Therefore, before buying, be sure to read all the available material, watch the videos, which are also often available, and in large numbers - there are really a lot of work methods. Describing in words is difficult and often incomprehensible. It's much easier to do everything in video format. We will try to briefly summarize the techniques.

• • When working with structured plasters, painted in the mass (color is added to the composition), a thin base coat is first applied. It can be smooth, maybe - slightly textured - rolled with one of the rollers. This layer is allowed to dry (6-24 hours depending on the manufacturer). Then, with the same or clarified composition (an unpainted composition is added, obtaining a mass several tones lighter), one of the reliefs is formed. Further options:
    • • Immediately after shaping, while the plaster has not dried, lightly smoothen over protruding parts with a stainless or plastic trowel.
    • Wait until the layer is dry. Emery paper attached to a grip or a wooden block is used to clean off some part of the relief.
  • Working with textured plasters, one layer is applied. Without waiting for drying, they immediately take the grout and form the desired relief. An example is working with bark beetle plaster. This composition is widespread, but basically all surfaces are made the same - with vertical strokes formed by blotches. There are some very interesting techniques in the video.

• The hardest part is the technique of applying Venetian plaster. The layers are very thin, translucent, there are many of them and are applied in different ways:
  • • Apply an even, thin base coat first. It dries up.
    • Thin chaotic strokes are applied, which gradually fill the surface. In this case, a certain, not very pronounced relief is obtained - strokes of different thickness are obtained, different directions.
    • The layer is left to dry for 4-5 hours.
    • Take a large stainless spatula or grater and rub (iron) the surface. In this case, the sharp edges are slightly erased, the surface becomes smooth in places, velvety-looking in places. The "marble effect" begins to appear.
    • The next layer is almost the same, but you just need to level the surface as much as possible.
    • The layer is left to dry for 1.5-2 hours.
    • Smooth with a smooth, burr-free spatula with rounded ends (so as not to damage it accidentally). At this stage, the surface acquires a glossy sheen.
    • Finishing stage - decorative wax coating. This layer increases the moisture resistance of the coating, and the glossy shine becomes more pronounced.

Applying decorative plaster: video tutorials

Not all the nuances of finishing work can be clearly described in words. Previously, everything was passed from master to apprentice through an internship. Modern technologies make it possible to make the process more widespread - video lessons and master classes give an idea of ​​how to move, which is very difficult to describe in words. This section contains several interesting ideas for decorating walls with embossed plaster.

As you understand, applying decorative plaster is a creative business. But without experience it is difficult to imagine the results of your actions. We look closely, trying to copy the movements. First, it is advisable to practice on a piece of putty drywall - to work out the technique. When the result suits you, you can start decorating the walls.

Decorative plastering has been and remains a popular type of decoration both indoors and on facade walls due to its practicality and the variety of surfaces created. In this article, we will consider all the popular methods and techniques for applying decorative plaster, the features of which will be clearly shown in video tutorials.

Materials and tools

Trowel application technology includes the following work methods:

• A portion of the mortar is applied to the instrument and spread over the wall in short strokes. Laying layers of plaster overlap each other. Their direction can be either in one direction or in different directions. If the trowel moves not in a straight line, but in an arc, the relief will be completely different, more bizarre.

• Another popular option is to put a decorative trim - trimming with a trowel... The plaster mortar is also taken on a trowel, then it is easily pressed against the wall with its entire surface and removed. Movements are made quickly "to touch", turning the tool in different directions. It turns out the effect small "fur coat"... You can also first apply the plaster in an even layer of 2-3 mm, and then make facing over the entire area. It turns out as in the photo.

Roller

To decorate the walls during repairs, use ordinary fur (paint rollers) and special rubber with a specific pattern. You can also make a structural roller for decorative plaster with your own hands by wrapping its rotating part, for example, with a rag, bag or rope.

The patterning technique with a structured roller is very simple:

• the wall is plastered in one layer with a thickness of 2-4 mm;
• a roller is carried over the plaster in one direction, leaving a pattern.

To give the walls a "fur coat" effect, use a fur roller... There are two ways to do it:

• the roller is dipped into plaster mortar and rolled along the wall;
• a section of the wall is completely plastered with a trowel or spatula, then a texture is formed with a roller.

After the mortar has set on the wall, you can walk with a wet trowel and smooth out the protrusions, rub.

Important: If the mixture is uneven, remove the excess with a spatula. It is not recommended to take long breaks when working with a roller, as the material will dry out and joints will be noticeable on it.

Brush

With the help of a brush, a finishing coat is created, as a rule, using ready-made plasters for decoration. This method has several advantages:

• Profitability. The brush spreads the material in a thin layer.
• Rapidity. When the mixture is applied to the wall, the texture is immediately created.
• Simplicity. No special skills or techniques are required, decorative plaster is simply applied and spread with strokes in different directions.

Often such mixtures contain mineral fillers, for example, sand, marble chips. They roughen the plaster and complement the texture created by the brush. More information about the application technique will be described in the video tutorial below.

Sponge

For the device of a textured coating, improvised means are also used, for example, foam or sea sponges, plastic bags, rags.

First, lay an even base layer, use a trowel. Then scoop up a small amount of plaster with a sponge and apply it to the wall with strokes. You can not cover the entire surface, but only make islands of plaster. After it begins to set (after 15-20 minutes), the tops are smoothed with a trowel or spatula.

In this way, they imitate the texture of the stone, create arbitrary patterns.

Decorative plaster is always a sophisticated wall design. Its application is a laborious and expensive process, but the resulting coating is very strong and durable. There are several of the most popular application techniques, but with the advent of new plasters, the variety of textures and patterns is growing. In the article, we will consider the features of do-it-yourself decorative wall plaster.

Types of decorative plaster

For easy storage, most decorative plasters are sold dry. These mixtures already include a plaster base and decorative fillers (sand, stone chips, fibers, antiseptic additives, dyes). The larger the size of the filler, the higher the consumption of the finished mixture per m2 and, accordingly, the more embossed the pattern.

• Decorative plasters are divided into 2 main types: facade and for interior work... In the first case, frost-resistant and moisture-resistant additives are added to the mixture. They are also more resistant to UV rays, which retains their color for many years, even on southern facades.

Advice: when choosing decorative facade plaster, it is better to give preference to light and pastel shades. Even the highest quality composition with bright pigmentation begins to fade over time.

Decorative plasters for interior work are called interior plasters and are divided in composition into:

• mineral. It prevents the growth and spread of mold. High moisture resistance allows using it in rooms with high humidity. But due to low elasticity, cracks may appear at large temperature drops;
• acrylic. Good elasticity and strength of the coating made it one of the most popular. But it has 2 drawbacks: high cost and difficult to wash when contaminated;
• silicate although it has a high price, it is fully justified. The coating based on silicate plaster is very practical, durable and durable;
• silicone... Among all the above types, this is the most durable composition for interior work.

According to the type of the resulting pattern and texture, all decorative plasters are divided into:

• structural coating... It contains fillers of different properties and sizes - from fibers to pebbles. The most popular cover of this species is the bark beetle. It is made on a cement and synthetic base. Application is the simplest of all types;
• mineral coating... It is made on the basis of marble chips, lime and cement, therefore it also has thermal insulation properties. And thanks to the modifiers in the composition, it has moisture resistant properties. Has a low consumption and is recommended for indoor and outdoor use;
• Venetian plaster... It has been known for several centuries. These compositions are very expensive, since the composition includes a dusty fraction of marble, which, after application, creates the effect of walls with an overflow of natural stone. It is difficult to apply it and it takes a very long time, since several layers are made. Suitable only for interior work.

Advantages of decorative plaster

• Plaster gives the appearance of the house nobility, makes the interior multifaceted. It will be an excellent basis for any design, and the heterogeneity of the coating and color will create a unique range of colors.
• Decorative plasters not only decorate the hay, but also, due to their moisture-resistant properties, protect the base on which they are applied.
• Subject to the application technology, it will decorate walls for many years, without the formation of cracks and rust, even in regions with harsh winters.

• Most of the popular textures for decorative plaster do not require special skills when applied. Therefore, the final cost, taking into account the do-it-yourself work, competes with other wall and ceiling coverings.
• When using plaster with coarse-grained filler, very careful preparation of the walls is not required.
• To change the appearance of the room and the facade, it is enough to simply repaint the plaster. By changing the color, its relief and texture will remain.

DIY tools and materials for applying decorative plaster

Of course, the specific set of materials and fixtures will depend on the decorative coating chosen and the method of application.

• Primer;
• finishing putty;
• decorative plaster;
• glossy or matte wax;
• spatulas of different sizes;
• brushes;
• tray for paint;
• embossed rollers;
• sponge, rags, etc.

Preparatory work before plastering internal walls with your own hands

• If a plaster compound with a slight relief is used, then the walls are prepared perfectly evenly - as for painting.
• The finishing putty is applied in a very thin layer, its main purpose is not to level the surface, but to close all the pores. After it dries, the surface is sanded with a paint float or a fine-grained float. As a result, dust is formed and if it is not removed, the decorative plaster will peel off in the future. Dust the wall with a primer.

• When applying the already finished decorative coating, one must remember that in one day it is recommended to make no more than two walls that are not adjacent to each other, so as not to spoil the drawing in the corners.
• If plaster gets on the floor or other objects, it is recommended to wipe it off immediately. Otherwise, it will harden and can only be removed with a spatula, while there is a risk of scratching the surface.

DIY decorative structural plaster

• This is the most preferred option for self-application if there is no experience.
• It is sold ready-made in plastic buckets of various sizes. For indoor use, the formulations are water-based and therefore do not have a strong unpleasant odor. In addition, all structural plaster is very flexible and easy to work with with any tool.

• For outdoor work, such compositions are selected based on cement and lime.

Stages of work

• Since the composition has bulky fillers, perfect surface leveling is not required in this case. The most important thing is that the surface is dust-free and dry. In addition, the primer creates an additional moisture-resistant layer between the surface and the decorative coating, as well as enhances their adhesion.
• Apply the decorative composition with a spatula, starting work from the top and moving down. The first layer is very important. They align the inner and outer corners.
• You can level it with even straight movements, but it will look more advantageous if you apply it in chaotic directions. These stripes will create a unique pattern.
• When the layer is completely finished over the entire area (and this must always be done at a time, otherwise the joint will be visible), it is left to dry completely. Better to take your time and wait a day.
• Next, a top layer is made, which is called a cover layer. Sometimes it turns out to be quite thick, especially when removing corners or niches. And it takes up to two days for it to dry completely.

• If the resulting coating seems too dull and uniform, it is additionally painted with a sponge, creating an imitation of highlights or scuffs.
• When the paint is dry, the entire area is treated with a protective wax.

DIY decorative textured plaster

• The complexity of the drawing, its volume and texture, will depend on the method of application and the tools used. Compositions for it may not have a filler, so even an ordinary finishing plaster is suitable, with which a relief surface will be created.
• The most popular designs of textured plaster are in the form of tree bark or compressed paper.
• The quality of the resulting coating will be influenced by the composition of the plaster. So, the best relief and a guarantee against cracking can be achieved with polymer compounds. But in most cases, it is based on lime flour with various fillers.

Stages of work

• If the solution for plastering the walls was made by hand, then it is checked before starting the main work. They are applied to a section of the wall and see that it is not too liquid and does not drain, but it should not be too thick either, otherwise the plaster will lose its plasticity and harden too quickly.
• It is advisable to carry out the work together. While one applies and levels the composition, the other gives it shape. If this is not possible, then the surface is immediately divided into several zones and made in stages. This is important, because the applied composition quickly sets, and the relief must be formed immediately.

• The plaster is applied to the wall. If it is fine-grained, then the layer is 2-3 mm, if the filling fraction is large, then the layer is equal to its thickness.
• The formation of a relief is a creative process and the final result will depend only on the flight of the master's imagination. Often, in the end, it is very different from what was originally conceived.

But still, there are several common ways to create a decorative texture on plaster. For example:

• with a sponge... The sponge is moistened in a soapy water solution so that it does not stick to the plaster. And they press, as if pressing, and at the same time, they turn in a circular motion. So they pass the entire area without leaving untreated areas;
• with a grater... This is a special float for decorative plaster. With its help, vertical furrows are applied, which repeat the tree bark. Their configuration will change depending on the pressure and pressure angle;
• application with uneven bumps will become an exciting process. Consumption of plaster will be great, but in the end you will get a beautiful texture called "fur coat". Most often it is done when plastering the outer walls with your own hands. Since the application is simple and a very noticeable thermal insulation layer is created on the facade.

To emphasize the texture, as a rule, finishing painting is performed in 2 stages:

• at first, the entire surface and all the depressions are very carefully painted over with a lighter tone;
• when the paint dries, only the protruding parts of the relief are painted over with a darker shade. If the area is small, then it is done with a brush; for large volumes, it is more convenient to work with a smooth roller.

The final step is to apply a protective wax-based varnish.

DIY decorative plaster video

DIY decorative Venetian plaster

• Initially, it is sold in a transparent form as a ready-made solution in cans. If desired, it can be tinted in any chosen shade.
• Walls for Venetian plaster are ideally prepared, since the applied layer has no relief.
• Suitable for use in residential premises and is made on the basis of natural materials: hydrated lime, water and marble dust.
• In addition to high decorative qualities, Venetian plaster has high moisture resistance, is environmentally friendly, does not have an unpleasant odor and is fireproof.

Stages of work

• If the mixture is purchased dry, then immediately before starting work, it is diluted in such an amount that it is enough to cover the entire wall at a time. The mixture is gradually added to the water and mixed with a mixer. At the very end, add color. The proportions are indicated on the packaging by the manufacturer; in consistency, it must be elastic and not liquid. In this case, the temperature in the room in which the solution is prepared should not be lower than +10 ° C.
• The first layer is made very thin and the entire area is evenly covered.

• The second layer should already create the drawing. For this, the solution is applied with arbitrary smooth movements with a rubber spatula. Each layer is applied only after the previous one has completely dried (at least 6 hours).
• Venetian plaster requires at least 4 layers, but ideally there should be 12.
• The rich and deep color scheme of natural marble can be achieved if each layer has a different shade.
• For a beautiful glossy shine, a protective wax is applied to the coating.

Lime decorative plaster

• This is an inexpensive way to decorate walls. Since the solution is prepared independently, and all the components for it are expensive. In addition, lime-based decorative plaster is environmentally friendly and does not have an unpleasant odor.
• Important: such a solution hardens much longer, therefore it is not recommended to apply a thick layer, otherwise it will "float".

Making a lime mortar for plastering walls with your own hands

• Lime plaster is a composition of sand and hydrated lime. These ratios can vary and are selected individually. So, if the solution does not stick to the wall as it should, lime should be added to it, and if it sticks too much to the spatula, then on the contrary, add sand.
• First, we extinguish the lime. The required amount of lime is poured into a container (any, except for plastic) and poured with warm water and tightly closed with a lid. When the boiling reaction is over, filter the lime through 2 layers of gauze. The resulting mass is set aside for a day to thicken.
• Sifted sand and a little water are added to the lime and mixed until smooth. And gradually adding sand and water in small portions at the same time, the solution is brought to the desired consistency. The finished plaster can be used within 2 days.

Advice: if you want to make lime plaster with decorative relief or filling, you should not use it in its pure form. It is recommended to make lime-cement or lime-gypsum compositions.

Decorative plaster of walls with cement mortar

Cement-based decorative plaster is used in most cases for facade cladding.

How to make a cement plaster solution with your own hands

As a basis, cement, sand and water are used, in addition to this, various polymer additives and mineral fillers are added to the composition for relief.

The peculiarity of plastering walls with cement mortar with your own hands is in a properly prepared solution:

• unnecessarily bold it will turn out if you overdo it with the amount of the binder component, in this case cracking may begin already during setting;
• skinny they call plaster, in which there is a lot of water and mineral filler, and, on the contrary, little cement. This solution will quickly begin to flake off the surface;
• normal composition- in which the quality of the cement and the fraction of the sand filler are observed in the correct proportions.

Stages of applying decorative plaster on the facade with your own hands

• First, the facade is plastered with a starting putty and immediately a reinforcing mesh is embedded in this layer. This will allow you to align the walls (especially if the work is done on a foam block, foam or foam), and make a solid base for the decorative layer. Smooth out and leave to dry.
• The surface is primed, and as soon as it dries, the finishing layer is applied.
• It is better to work together, since the solution dries faster outdoors than indoors. First, the layer is sprayed onto the wall section and evenly distributed. And instead of leveling, a special spatula or roller is used to create a pattern or relief.
• At the end, it is painted or covered with a protective agent.

Features of plastering walls with cement-sand mortar with your own hands

• If several layers are made and they are not uniform in thickness, then as a result, after drying, the effect of uneven staining will be created.
• Too thin layer will get wet from moisture and accentuate possible irregularities of the facade surface.
• When carrying out work at negative air temperatures. There is the thinnest ice on the wall and, laying on top of it, with the spring warming, the plaster will begin to move away from the walls.
• And work in the heat leads to very quick drying of the solution and its cracking.
• If the plaster is tinted independently, then the solution must be prepared for the entire surface of the saz. It is almost impossible to choose the exact shade on your own and there will be spots on the facade.