Applying plaster to a ceiling is an intermediately difficult DIY project.
Adding plaster over chicken wire spread across the ceiling is one way to transform the appearance of any room. Plaster ceilings were often used in the past before the wide use of drywall and other ready-made wall coatings. Adding a plaster coating to a ceiling will give a room an old-fashioned appearance that works well with French-, English- and Spanish-style decorating. Spreading plaster onto a ceiling is a little more difficult than spreading it onto a wall, simply because of the height. Use a stable ladder and proper safety gear to protect yourself while applying the plaster.
Instructions
1. Mix 6 cups of water with 5 pounds of gypsum plaster with a paint-mixing attached on an electric drill. Mix the materials together until the plaster becomes smooth and creamy without any lumps. The plaster should have the consistency of peanut butter.
2. Smooth the plaster over the ceiling with a plaster trowel. Make sure you wear safety goggles and a hat to protect your eyes and head from falling plaster. Spread the plaster to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Allow the plaster to dry for 24 hours.
3. Apply a second layer of plaster to the ceiling. Spread this layer to the same 1/4-inch thickness. Smooth out any bumps for a even ceiling finish, or create swirls or ridges in the plaster with the trowel for a more decorative appearance. Allow the plaster to cure for an additional 24 hours.
Tags: Adding plaster, , plaster ceiling, plaster over, plaster with