Thursday, September 8, 2011

Old World Plaster Technique

So, this is what I've been up to ... covered in joint compound and making a mess of my kitchen. Yes, I know I have a craft space, but I really needed room to spread out and make a mess and my little corner just wasn't doing it for me.
I've been working on yet another huge order of switch plates...this time for a California beach house. My client purchased the switch plate below and wanted matching ones to go throughout the house.
I talked her into a couple of different looks, so I am busy creating. In the mean time (and while I had the joint compound out), I tried working on a few other projects. 



I used the scrap lumber above and a few of my findings to create these key holders (not quite finished yet, but you get the idea) below. I made one with a grayish background and the other with a white and ivory background. 
 To get the joint compound from that ugly gray to a slightly lighter gray and ivory, I mixed in acrylic paint to get the desired effect. Here's a site about the technique, http://www.surfaceswithpaint.com/plaster_finishes.htm (because I honestly tried to take photos and they just didn't work out). I just use the technique on a much smaller scale and tend to clump my plaster a little more so it looks very aged. I also rub a dry brush over it or glaze it so it catches and highlights the texture. Once I get the drill out, I'll secure the findings to the wood scraps and sell these in my etsy shop. But, right now I've got to finish this order.
Linking to:
http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/
vif187 








Photobucket

8 comments:

Jane said...

Your client's home is going to look very pretty with your switch plates. It's definitely making me think about the plain, ugly ones I have throughout my house.
The key holders look awesome too. I love all of that old hardware.
Have fun creating.
Jane

Jaime Lyn at Crafty Scrappy Happy said...

ohhh my goodness I am in love. I ADORE what you have done it is all just SOO the style that I love! I am going to have to check out your etsy shop that is for sure because I am without a doubt drooling over those hangers! They are amazingly beautiful! Thank you SO much for the inspiration I am for sure a new follower and adoring fan! Thank you so much for linking up at the crafty scrappy happy link party---I am thrilled to have "met" you!!!
Jaime from crafty scrappy happy

Craftberry Bush said...

These are are beautiful, I have try the Venetian plaster technique before and love the results. I have never thought of light switches though...so lovely! Xo
Lucy

d e l i g h t said...

Your switch plates are magnificent! I'm really impressed!

Kathy said...

I know what you mean when you begin working on a project and before you know it you have spread our further and further in the house. I love your emblished hook boards, they look wonderful and I know they will sell great on your blog. Drop by my blog I am hosting a giveaway in celebration of my 100th follower. Kathy

Andi said...

LOVE those key holders!!! And I will have to check out the link and learn the technique so I can maybe make my own :)

Anonymous said...


stukadoor-nederlandYour blogs are easily accessible and quite enlightening so keep doing the amazing work guys.

Anonymous said...


stukadoor-nederlandYour blogs are easily accessible and quite enlightening so keep doing the amazing work guys.