Finish Options | Clay, Lime, and Tadelakt — Simple Construct Natural Plasters

Craft Plaster Options

We work with you to find the perfect color and texture for your project. Our expertise in custom plasters means you don’t have to become an expert, too.

The two main types of craft plasters we install are clay and lime. Each has its own character and benefits. Read on if you’d like to know more or contact us if you’d like to get started.

Clay Plaster Finishes

The unique beauty of clay plaster is unrivaled. Clay plasters are softer than conventional plasters, leading to better indoor acoustics, and are infinitely re-workable. We like to say that clay plaster’s softness is its strength because it is relatively easy to repair it instead of having to replace it. Clay plaster also outperforms conventional wall coverings by regulating humidity to promote better indoor air quality. Our mix is handcrafted with locally sourced minerals to create a versatile plaster that can be finished to a range of effects. Although we specialize in making our own clay plasters, we are also trained installers of American Clay ©, a ready-mixed clay plaster manufactured in New Mexico.

Polished

The elegant, tonal movement in this finish is achieved by burnishing the plaster surface to a medium-high sheen.

Classic

This matte finish creates a soft, suede-like surface with minimal texture.

Rustic

This finish can be textured to varying degrees for a natural feel.

Lime Plaster Finishes

Derived from limestone, lime plaster is a strong, durable wall-covering option with mold-resistant and hypoallergenic properties. Once installed, lime plaster cures, absorbing Co2 from the air, and effectively becoming limestone on the wall. We use Earthaus© bagged plasters which are produced in the US and available in a wide range of colors and distinct finishes.

Marble

Marble is the smoothest of the lime finishes, with little-to-no texture. This finish can be left matte or polished to a high-sheen.

Stone

This semi-smooth finish can be left matte or polished to a medium-sheen, creating a cool, contemporary look.

Sand

Granular texture gives this plaster a rich, matte finish similar to sandstone or concrete.

Tadelakt

Traditional tadelakt is an age-old Moroccan technique that requires unique knowledge and skill. The complex process of polishing and soaping natural lime plaster creates a seamless, water-resistant surface. The finish is very smooth, with no raised texture or grout lines. It’s a sensuous alternative to tiled shower walls and backsplashes. A similar look can also be achieved more quickly using acrylic-stabilized lime plaster. More about tadelakt…

Unique Finishes

Craft plasters can create one-of-a-kind finishes perfectly suited to each project. We have experience with fresco, stencil, bas-relief, arakabe, ombre, murals, stencils, stripes, flutes, and color blocks. If you can dream it, we can make it.