How to Get a Smooth Finish

How Do I Get a Smooth Overlay Finish?

To acheive a smooth finish with the overlay could simply be a 3 step overlay process or it can include multiple coats of colored mud to acheive a Venetian plaster finish.



Regular smooth finish process Includes:

1-Apply thin skim coat of regular Overlay mix by using modifier only in the mix. ( the point is just to have a scratch coat for the smooth mix to bond better and to give added strength).



2- Let skim coat start to set up (skim coat is getting hard but not all the way dry) about 20 min-1 hour depending on humidity. Fill a hand spray bottle with modifier and spray clean trowel with modifier then trowel surface again making sure to smooth out skim coat as best you can. Spray small amounts on hard lines to smooth then out. (no sanding is needed if done properly)



3-Mix smooth mix with modifier only, to a thick soup consistancy. Skim coat a layer over entire surface with the intent on filling gaps from the first layer. You want the second coat to be thin and to fill and level the first use ("Elbow Grease"). You can also spray modifier on trowel and smooth out coat when it sets. (like first coat). Let dry 30 min- 1 hour depending on humidity.



4- Apply the third coat the same mix and way as the second coat. Remember the goal is to fill the gaps from the second coat. Let dry 8 hours.



At this point you can Stain, paint or seal the surface. This process works great on countertops and interior floors.

To acheive a Venetian Plaster effect apply coloring tints to the mix and apply 3 coats or more using Venetian Plaster burnishing techniques. (burnishing= knocking down trowel marks by rubbing them hard with a stainless steel trowel.)