Bronze Mica Cross‑Hatch Venetian Plaster
This technique builds a cross‑hatch pattern in Venetian plaster over a flawless Level 5 substrate. The look is refined and architectural—subtle texture with metallic shimmer when finished with bronze or copper wax. It can be specified in virtually any color; the example shown uses an off‑white plaster.
Application Overview
- Basecoat: Apply a smooth Venetian plaster base; allow to dry fully.
- First Pass (Linear): Apply short, linear strokes of Venetian plaster with naturally uneven edges, spaced roughly 1/4–1/2 inch apart across the surface. Before it dries, flatten and burnish with the trowel.
- Second Pass (Vertical): After curing, repeat with a vertical pass to create the cross‑hatch. Burnish again for depth and subtle sheen.
- Finish: Seal or wax. For shimmer, we use bronze/copper wax or a wax with copper dust.
- Ceilings: Achievable, but more challenging—requires experienced crew and careful staging.
Substrate
Level 5 drywall for a crisp, even read of the cross‑hatch pattern.
Sheen
Burnished Venetian feel; add bronze/copper wax for shimmer or keep natural for a soft, elegant read.
Color
Match to Benjamin Moore or Sherwin‑Williams palettes; off‑white shown.
Use Cases
Boutique retail, hospitality corridors, feature walls, powder rooms, and select ceilings.
FAQ
- Does it require Level 5?
- Yes. Level 5 ensures the cross‑hatch reads cleanly without telegraphing substrate flaws.
- Can you do this on ceilings?
- Yes, though it’s more challenging and labor intensive. We plan crew, staging, and timing carefully.
- Is the wax mandatory?
- No. Bronze/copper wax adds a metallic kick, but we also finish this in natural or matte sealed looks.
Want to explore related textures? See our Textured Plaster Finishes or browse the texture collection.
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