Plastering a wall: A step by step guide

Materials Needed:

  1. Plaster (Thistle Multi-Finish, Thistle Hardwall or similar)
  2. Clean, cold water
  3. A plastering trowel
  4. A plasterer's hawk
  5. A bucket trowel
  6. A mixing bucket
  7. A drill with a mixing paddle
  8. A clean sponge and water
  9. Protective sheets (to protect your floor and furniture)
  10. Sandpaper (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Preparation: Start by clearing the room or area where you are going to plaster. Lay down protective sheets to prevent any splashes or spills from damaging your floor. Remove any loose plaster or wallpaper and ensure the wall is clean and dry.

  2. Mixing the Plaster: Follow the instructions on the plaster bag. Usually, you'll need to add water to the mixing bucket first, then gradually add the plaster. Use a drill with a mixing paddle to blend until you have a smooth, creamy consistency.

  3. Applying the First Coat: Load some plaster onto your hawk, then take a bit on your trowel. Starting from the bottom of the wall, apply the plaster in an upward motion. Keep the thickness to about 2mm.

  4. Smooth it Out: Once the entire wall is covered, go over it again with your trowel to smooth out any lines or imperfections. This is called 'trowelling up'. Let it dry a little (it should still be slightly wet), about 15-20 minutes.

  5. Applying the Second Coat: Repeat the process, but this time aim for a thickness of about 1mm. Let it dry slightly.

  6. Final Smoothing: Once again, trowel up the wall to smooth out any lines or imperfections from the second coat. If any small imperfections remain, don't worry - these can be lightly sanded once the plaster is fully dry.

  7. Cleaning Up: Use a damp sponge to clean your tools and bucket immediately after use.

  8. Drying: Allow the wall to dry completely. This can take anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on the temperature and humidity levels.

  9. Sanding (Optional): If there are any imperfections left after the plaster has dried, you can lightly sand the wall for a smooth finish.

Remember, plastering is a skill that takes practice to master, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect. With a little patience and perseverance, you'll get the hang of it.