How to Choose Plastering Tools for Professional Use
Clean plaster from tools immediately after use before it sets. Dried plaster is significantly harder to remove and scratches the blade surface, which affects the finish quality of subsequent coats. A bucket of water nearby while working makes this easy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size trowel should a plasterer use?
Most plasterers use an 11–13 inch finishing trowel for general work. Larger 14–16 inch trowels cover more area for new plaster on big walls. Smaller 4–8 inch trowels are used for angles, patches, and detail work.
What's the difference between a hawk and a spot board?
A hawk is a hand-held square board used to carry small amounts of plaster while working. A spot board (or mixing board) is a larger flat board placed on the floor to hold bulk mixed plaster before loading the hawk.
What mixing paddle should I use for plaster?
A slow-speed (400–600rpm) drill with a plaster paddle mixing attachment is correct for plaster. High-speed mixing introduces air bubbles and can over-thin the mix. A dedicated mixing drill or a drill with adjustable speed is the professional choice.


