6. Venetian Plaster Finish

For an ultra-luxury, Mediterranean look, apply a Venetian plaster finish over your existing fireplace surround. This creates a smooth, marble-like texture with a subtle sheen that reflects the firelight beautifully.

  • Materials Needed:
    • Venetian plaster tint
    • Stainless steel trowel
    • Fine-grit sandpaper
    • Topcoat wax
  • Steps:
    • Apply a thin base coat of plaster using a trowel in random, overlapping strokes.
    • Let it dry and lightly sand any high ridges.
    • Apply a second, thinner coat.
    • Once dry, “burnish” the surface by rubbing it with the clean trowel at an angle to create a shine.

Pro Tip: Apply a final layer of specialty wax to protect the finish and make the colors appear deeper and more vibrant.