Decorative plaster "sand": effects and composition options

Recently, it has become quite popular to use decorative plaster instead of wallpaper for wall decoration in residential and non-residential premises. One of the types of such a coating is the finishing material "sand". Let's see what it is and what its features are.

Decorative plaster is a finish with which various reliefs and other visual effects are created on surfaces.

Decorative plaster "sand" is widely used in interior design and this is not without reason, because the material has a number of advantages:

• The composition of the plaster includes quartz or river sand, which helps to create a variety of coatings on the surface of the walls.
• The material tolerates high humidity well. The cover can be cleaned with a damp cloth. To enhance the moisture-resistant properties, the "sand" plaster can be coated with wax, after which the use of such a finish is permissible even in the bathroom.
• The composition is completely environmentally friendly, does not cause allergies.

• The material has a high vapor permeability, that is, the walls under it "breathe". The surface can absorb and then release moisture back, maintaining an optimal indoor climate.
• Plaster "sand" has a fairly long service life, which reaches more than 10 years. At the same time, the texture and brightness of the colors are preserved in their original form.
• The composition has increased resistance to mold and mildew.
• A wide range of colors will help you choose this coating for almost any interior.
• Due to its properties, such a coating can also be used outside buildings.

The disadvantages of the material include its cost., but it is still much lower than that of a good wallpaper. Also, the disadvantages include the fact that this coating absorbs odors well, so it is not recommended to use it in the kitchen.

Manufacturers produce several types of decorative plaster "sand".

First of all, it can be classified according to its composition:

• Quartz. The composition of the material includes quartz sand, which increases the antimicrobial properties of this material. The relief of the composition is insignificant.
• With river sand. This plaster creates a rather deep texture on the surface, but this composition has practically no gloss.

In addition, decorative sand plaster can create a matte or pearlescent finish. The latter gives the walls a velvety look, they can imitate silk-screen printing. The pearlescent effect is achieved by introducing into the composition of small particles of shells, a variety of sparkles.

With the help of sandy plaster, you can create various effects on the walls - they are obtained as a result of using different techniques when applying the composition to the wall.

• Sand Dunes effect. With this application, a delicate shimmering picture is formed on the surface. A similar technique is used in ethnic styles using motifs from Morocco and eastern countries. The main feature here is the pronounced shimmer.The effect is achieved by using additional toners and special pearlescent pastes, which increase the flicker of quartz particles.
• Sandy Wind effect. This technique is also often referred to as "sand whirlwinds" or "sandstorms". This coating is applied in large strokes in two layers. Each movement intersects with the next. Additional pastes can also be used here to increase the shine and texture. After the surface has completely dried, it is subjected to grinding - this adds brightness to the applied composition.

• Pebbled Skin effect. Here, the second layer of coating must be applied using a special stencil. In order for the relief to be more noticeable, the surface should also be sanded after complete drying.
• Burlap effect. This method uses a stiff brush. Depending on the direction of movement, the texture and the resulting pattern change.

At its core, the application of "sand" plaster has practically no difficulties.

Preparation of a bare wall and subsequent plastering are carried out in several stages:

• Remove all kinds of stains and dirt from the surface. Vacuum the wall to remove the smallest dust particles.
• Check for all kinds of cracks and irregularities on the surface - on such imperfections, the "sand" plaster does not adhere well and can crumble. If any, it is necessary to carry out the initial leveling of the wall. For this, gypsum-based plaster is used.
• After the surface is dry, it is necessary to apply a layer of acrylic-based plaster. After that, the surface is cleaned with a vacuum cleaner again.
• Next, you should treat the surface with a deep penetration primer.

• The next step is to prepare the plaster itself. The composition of the "sand" coating is of two types. It is enough to simply stir the first, lifting particles of quartz, river sand, mother-of-pearl from the bottom, while the second must be diluted with water. To determine what type of plaster, you should look at the manufacturer's instructions.
• The composition is applied to the surface using a roller with a fur or fabric cover.
• After the first layer is applied, you should wait a couple of minutes, and then use a foam roller to add texture to the coating.
• At the next stage, using a spatula, the layer is slightly crushed. The resulting drawing depends on the movements of this tool.
• Next, you should wait until the surface is completely dry, and then, if necessary, treat it with special toners, pastes or wax.

Covering with decorative plaster "sand" is ready for use.

• Designers quite often use decorative "sand" plaster in their projects. In the first photo, the fireplace area is finished with this coating. They used terracotta-colored plaster. The warmth of the fire spreads to the entire height of the wall, shimmering in the texture of the finish. This element immediately becomes the main focus of the entire room.
• Sandstone plaster can even be used in bathtub finishes. The result is quite interesting interiors in a classic style.

• The golden tone of the walls, combined with the wrought iron staircase elements, make the room refined and luxurious. Such a room does not require additional bright accents.

• A matte sand wall will be appropriate in the interior of a living room decorated in eco-style.

• And the walls decorated with plaster "sand" with imitation of masonry from stone blocks will look good in a country-style room.

• A wall covered with plaster "sand" can also act as a background in the interior. For this, you should use a material of pastel shades. In this case, the accent in the interior should be highlighted with the help of accessories or textiles.

How to properly apply decorative plaster with the effect of "sandy wind" to the wall, see the following video.