Hi,

I plastered my ceiling a couple of months ago and was really pleased with 
the finish. However, I wasn't sure of how to correctly finish with the 
float, and ended up finishing with a wet sponge/brush. I now have to do a 
wall, and really want the smooth finish from the float. Any tips? Do you use 
it in the same way as a trowel, or do you put it flat onto the plaster, in 
which case, how do you prevent suction?

Bruce

"Bruce Hopkins"  wrote in message
news:fVy3e.3414$vv2.1046@newsfe2-gui.ntli.net...

> Hi,
>
> I plastered my ceiling a couple of months ago and was really pleased with
> the finish. However, I wasn't sure of how to correctly finish with the
> float, and ended up finishing with a wet sponge/brush. I now have to do a
> wall, and really want the smooth finish from the float. Any tips? Do you
use
> it in the same way as a trowel, or do you put it flat onto the plaster, in
> which case, how do you prevent suction?
>
> Bruce
>
>

A good quality trowel or steel float is a must. Round about 18 to 30. When
selecting a steel float, check the edges all the way round, don't get one to
big. a good float as about 8 to 12 rivets holding the handle on to the
blade.
Use as if you are spreading butter on bread with a knife, use the edge not
flat.  A good float or trowel will be stiff but under slight pressure bend
and spring back when applying finish.  Don't try to smooth the finish until
it starts to go off, then with a large paste brush flick a little water on
the plaster and lightly run the float over, using the film and a little
plaster to fill in any discrepancies.Try this on a test area first.  Also
check to see how old the bag of plaster is. Get fresh as old plaster sets
near enough as you mix it. Don't even attempt to use old plaster.

Keith