French country design
is based on the romantic appeal of a chateau nestled in the hills of Provence. Fabrics and decor are rustic and possess old world charm. In French country decor you will see a lot of toile patterns, antique pine and wrought iron. Colors tend toward mustard, salmon and cornflower. One thing that is central to French country design is venetian plaster. While you might find it difficult to find a home with real venetian plaster, you can create the look with faux painting techniques. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Assess your surface. Plaster should be applied to smooth-finish drywall or lathe. If your drywall has the texture of orange peel or smoother, you should be able to plan for two coats of venetian plaster for your walls. If your wall has a rougher texture it may need to be treated first or might require additional coats of paint.
2. Prime walls with a water-based acrylic primer. Scuff or sand the surface lightly. This will give the plaster a surface to grab and will create a better French country finish.
3. Mix the plaster. Vesario Plaster recommends mixing the product 24 hours before you intend to apply it to your walls.
4. Mask the trim to create a sharp line between trim and plaster surface. You are trying to imitate the look of authentic French country plaster. A gap between your trim and the walls will give you away instantly.
5. Use a stainless steel trowel to apply a very thin layer of plaster in either vertical and horizontal strokes or a diagonal cross hatch. Start at the top of the wall and work your way to the bottom. Apply the second coat before the first is completely dry. Allow to almost dry.
6. Burnish the walls while they are still mostly wet. Hold a dry trowel at a 5 degree angle to the wall and rub over the plaster. This will create the variations in color that give venetian plaster it signature appearance. Unburnished areas will be lighter in color. Allow to dry for 24 hours.
Tags: French country, venetian plaster, country design, French country design, plaster surface