Step 1: Prepare the Wall

This technique is created by using tinted plaster. As with any painting project, the area to be painted must be cleaned. Also, the plaster must be applied over a low-sheen surface, such as a wall painted with a flat or an eggshell finish. If the wall has more sheen than that, you'll need to prime the surface before applying the plaster. Also, go over the dry surface with 100-grit sandpaper to smooth it and prepare it for the plaster -- this reduces the chances of leaving straight lines and edge marks.

Safety note: For a project of this nature, always use protective gear such as a ventilator or respirator and safety glasses, and always work in a well-ventilated area.

Step 2: Apply the Base Coat of Plaster

The most important thing to learn when doing this project is technique -- and that means holding the trowel at the correct angle.

Here's how:

• First, load the trowel. Hold the trowel at a 15- to 30-degree angle and spread the plaster over the surface, using random strokes and creating a thin layer. It's okay if the original wall surface peeks through -- we'll cover that in step two.

• Wipe the trowel often. Dried plaster could mix in with the wet plaster and make the surface bumpy.

Tip:If the colors are white or pastel, spread the plaster with a plastic wall scraper instead of a steel trowel. The steel can cause gray streaks in the finish, and if there's any rust on the trowel, it could appear in the finish as well.

Step 3: Let Plaster Dry

Let the plaster dry for about four hours.

Note: Venetian plaster is a multistep project and takes more drying time than the normal painting project, but don't let that intimidate you. It may take a few days to complete, but the results are worth it.

Step 4: Apply Second Coat of Plaster

This time the drying technique is slightly different from applying the first coat:

Step 5: Apply the Topcoat