Polycell 20218 1 L Ready Mixed Tub Finishing Skim Polyfilla - Grey

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As with any job like this we would always suggest that you practice and hone your skills first so in this DIY guide we run through the process of how to skim plaster a wall or ceiling. What is Skim Plastering?

This is why practicing is a great idea. First, we suggest you mix up an eggcup full of skim. Place this on a plasterboard off cut of some kind that you have prepared with some PVA. Spread it out and mark the time it takes to go firm but not hard. This is the point at which skim can be made smooth and the trowel marks will disappear.

If there have been drywall repairs or ceiling repairs, a skim coat will give a nice consistent surface to retexture or for priming and painting. Old Surfaces One of the most important parts of plastering as a novice is not taking on too much in one go and this is where “stop end beads” come into play.

Using plasterboard to fill a hole between plaster can be advantageous to using a base plaster/render (the stuff beneath the thin layer of finishing skim coats), for a number of reasons: Wait for the bonding coat to set overnight. When you return the next day, use the wide scraper to gently chip off any protruding bits that'll get in the way when skimming.Once the flat surfaces are flat and smooth, if you have any corners it’s time to sort these. Using a small paintbrush, dip it in clean water and shake off any excess and then, with internal corners, gently run it down the apex of the corner. This will help to remove any trowel marks and also define the corner and make it much cleaner.