About Venetian Plaster
What is Venetian Plaster?
Venetian Plaster is a term used to describe a unique and ancient limestone finishing plaster from Italy. The name describes both the material and the process used to apply it. Lime plaster is one of the foundational building materials of mankind, with it's use dating back to the ancient Egyptians. The artsists of Renaisance-Era Venice evolved the medium into an artform in the 1500s while seeking new ways to decorate the opulent pallazos of the city. The material is a blend of crushed cooked limestone and fine marble dust. To make the plaster, natural limestone is quarried from the earth, cooked in a kiln, crushed, and then aged (slaked) underwater in lime pits to achieve its superior consistency and working characteristics. Fine marble dust is added to increase the translucent qualities, depth and sheen. The plaster is hand applied the same way it has been for thousands of years, by skilled artisans using specialized trowels with polished steel edges. The application process is distinct from other forms of plastering and is considered difficult and laborious. An artisan must have extensive knowledge of the medium and the ability to control environmental factors such as temperature and humidity. Experience with the tools and methods of application is required to develop the muscle memory needed to execute the work quickly and perfectly. The plaster is hand applied is a series of thin layers. As the final coat dries, the plaster is honed by compressing and burnishing the surface with a polished-edge steel trowel. The result is a beautiful surface with interest and depth that far outclasses modern paints and materials. While it's primarily used for aesthetic purposes, it also serves a functional purpose. The alkaline Ph of lime plaster introduces a natural reisistance to microbes, mold and mildew, making it an excellent choice for humid climates, interior or exterior.
My Journey with Venetian Plaster
As a trained decorative painter, I first encountered Venetian Plaster in an architect’s office, and its luminous, marble-like finish captivated me instantly. It was unlike any surface I’d ever seen, and I knew I had to master its craft. With no training programs available in the United States at the time, I traveled to Milan, Italy, to study under the skilled artisans at the renowned Spatula Stuhhi Plaster Factory. Young and awestruck, I was swept away by Italy’s breathtaking beauty—its art, architecture, and culture left an indelible mark on my soul. That transformative experience shaped my path as an artist. Learning the intricate techniques of Venetian Plaster and navigating the challenges of the trade hasn’t always been easy, but decades later, my passion for this timeless material burns brighter than ever. Its enduring elegance and versatility continue to inspire me, revealing new depths with every project.
Your walls don't have to be bland and boring.
Elevate your Space with Venetian Plaster
Walls dominate the visual landscape of any interior, yet they’re often overlooked, left to fade into bland uniformity. While floors, countertops, and bathrooms command careful material choices and investment, walls are frequently relegated to uninspired drywall coated in flat, plastic paint. You deserve better—and Venetian Plaster offers a transformative alternative. This timeless medium redefines a space’s ambiance, turning even subtle hues into captivating focal points. Its versatility suits every design vision: crisp, polished white plaster walls create a striking, gallery-worthy backdrop for modern interiors, while warmer, deeper tones reflect light with a luminous depth unmatched by paint. From sleek minimalism to rich, inviting warmth, Venetian Plaster elevates any project, infusing it with unparalleled sophistication and enduring beauty.