intro
VIOLANTE Italian plasters are made in Italy using natural minerals and traditional techniques. When applied correctly, these materials create durable finishes with depth, movement, and natural light reflection.
This guide explains the preparation, application, and finishing techniques used to achieve professional Venetian plaster results.
primer
Stir the primer well before use and apply one even coat across the entire wall with a roller or brush. On new construction with Level 5 drywall, you may dilute the primer 25% with clean water for easier spreading.
Allow the primer to dry 12–24 hours before plastering. For deep, dark colors, it typically ins't necessary to tint the primer as 2-3 coats of plaster will effectively conceal it.
MIX WELL
Each bucket is mixed thoroughly before it is sent out to you, however, it is recommended to mix before each use. This will liven the plaster and get a bit of air into it which will make it easier to work with. Use a capable drill with a paddle mixer attachment.
first coat
We'll be demonstrating GRASSELLO here, however, you can apply any of our products using these steps.
Using a stainless steel Venetian plaster trowel, hold the blade at a 15–30° angle and apply a thin and even coat. Apply a light but firm pressure.
Work in overlapping strokes from wet to dry until the surface is covered while also going back to remove any excess plaster along the way. Do not apply too thicklly, thin coats bond better and dry more evenly. Allow to dry for at least 6 hours.
second coat
Apply a second thin coat using the same trowel. Keep your strokes overlapping and consistent, adjusting the motion to achieve the look you want. Tighter, shorter strokes create a choppier, more active movement, while wider strokes produce a smoother, more subtle flow.
For Marmorino finishes, this is the stage where you move directly into the burnishing process to develop depth and sheen. For Grassello, however, you will need to apply a very tight third coat to achieve the refined, mirror-like surface before burnishing.
third coat (Grassello)
For GRASSELLO, a tight third coat is essential if you want a refined, high-gloss finish. This coat should be applied thin, stretching the plaster across the surface rather than laying down a lot of material. Be sure to remove all excess plaster from this coat.
Keep your trowel at a shallow angle (about 15–20°) and use controlled, overlapping strokes to compress the plaster into the second coat. The goal here is to begin closing the surface, eliminating voids or drag marks, so it is perfectly smooth and ready to burnish.
burnishing
Burnishing gives Venetian plaster its depth and natural shine by compressing the lime and marble in the surface.
Timing is critical. Begin when the plaster is firm but still slightly damp and cool to the touch. For GRASSELLO with a very thin 3rd coat, this can be immediately. If it is too wet it will smear. If it is fully dry it will not resond to the burnish.
Use a clean stainless steel Venetian plaster trowel with rounded edges. Hold the blade at a steep angle and apply moderate to firm pressure while working in smooth overlapping strokes. Each pass compresses the surface and increases the sheen.
Lighter pressure produces a soft satin finish. Additional passes with stronger pressure can create a higher polish, especially with GRSSELLO and RIVO finishes.
Work evenly across the wall in multiple directions and keep the trowel clean to prevent scratches or drag marks.
For Marmorino, burnishing after the second coat enhances movement and texture. For Grassello, burnishing is done after the tight third coat to develop its signature marble-like gloss.
burnishing mistakes
too early
Burnishing while the plaster is still too wet. This causes smearing and drag marks.
too late
Waiting until the surface has fully dried. At this point the plaster will no longer polish effectively.
excessive pressure
Pressing too hard can create friction burns that appear as gray or green cloudiness, discoloration, or small surface tears.
dirty trowel
Using a dirty, damaged, or nicked trowel. Imperfections in the blade can scratch the surface and leave permanent marks.