Ready to take on a plastering project? We’ve created this comprehensive checklist to help you achieve professional-quality results, whether it’s your first attempt or you’re looking to refine your technique.
Whether you’re patching a small section or plastering entire walls, the task can feel intimidating at first. With precise timing being essential and multiple steps requiring attention to detail, having a solid plan in place makes all the difference. We’ve broken down the entire process into clear, manageable steps to help you achieve that smooth, professional finish you’re working toward.
Once the paint is dry to the touch, gently remove the painter's tape from your walls. A tip to ensure a clean finish is to pull it at a 45-degree angle so it doesn't peel off any of the fresh paint. If the tape is stuck, use a utility knife to score along the edge before pulling it off.
After the paint has fully dried, look over your handiwork for any missed spots, drips or uneven sections. Use a small brush for touch-ups, if required. It's always helpful to keep a bit of leftover paint in case you need to do more work in the future.
Fully clean your brushes, rollers and trays straight after using them. If you wait until the paint dries, your tools will be much harder to clean. If you have used a water-based paint, clean everything with soap and water. For oil-based paints, use a paint thinner or mineral spirits.
Once the paint is fully dry and cured, usually after a few days, you can re-hang your artwork, curtains and framed photos. Be careful when handling the walls in case you scratch the fresh paint.
Get your measurements right and mix your plaster following the instructions to a nice, smooth consistency with no lumps. Use clean water and tools, and only mix what you can use before it starts to go off. Getting your mix right is key to having enough working time and getting that smooth finish you're after.
Your base coat sets the foundation for everything that follows, so it's key to get it spot on. Put on your first coat using firm, upward strokes with your trowel. Work in sections you can handle - we recommend taking it by one metre square at a time. It's also important to keep the thickness even and make sure you're covering everything properly.
Once your base coat has firmed up but is still damp, get your finish coat on. Use smooth, sweeping movements with your trowel, working in different directions to get a flat surface, paying extra attention to the corners and edges.
How you finish with your trowel determines just how smooth and professional your wall looks. As your plaster starts to set, work with your trowel to get the finish you want. Work carefully but keep moving, as timing is everything at this stage. Keep your trowel clean and slightly damp for best results.
Catching problems early means you can sort them out before the plaster sets hard. Once the plaster's started to set but before it's fully dry, use a light held at an angle to spot any problems.
Keep the air moving in your room for optimal drying, but stay away from direct heat or drafts. Let the plaster dry completely according to the instructions before you think about painting or wallpapering.
Here’s what to expect at each stage of your plastering project:
While DIY plastering can be manageable for minor repairs, larger areas or high-visibility spaces often benefit from professional expertise. Connect with experienced plasterers on hipages who can deliver flawless results while saving you valuable time and effort.
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In the spirit of reconciliation TQN Construct acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
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