When you decide to become a plasterer, the first thing you need to do is acquire the tools you need. There are some tools that you must have, while others are optional and allow you to do more with your work. The basic tools you need to get started include a hawk, a plastering trowel, a bucket trowel, a mixer, a water brush, and mixing buckets. Once you have these plastering tools, you can start to add them to your collection.

1. Hawk (Hand Board)

One of the most important tools you need for plastering is the hawk. It is also known as a hand board, and it holds the plaster so that you can scoop it with your trowel. You use the hawk to carry and hold the plaster as it moves up and down the wall, and it makes the process quick and easy. You can choose a plastic hawk or an aluminium hawk. Plastic hawks are a great option for beginners, as they are light and easy to use. However, aluminium hawks are stronger, and they are more expensive. They are the right model if you do a lot of plastering.

2. Plastering Trowel

The plastering trowel is equally important, and there are quite a few to choose from. First, you need to decide on the size and material. Most people start with a stainless steel plastering trowel that is 14 inches. Make sure that you choose a quality trowel, as an inexpensive flimsy one won’t produce the same results.

3. Bucket Trowel

You will use the bucket trowel to scoop your plaster up out of the plaster bucket. You need to make sure that it is strong enough to scoop out the plaster for you, but you don’t need to buy the fanciest model. A bucket trowel is an important tool, but you can save money here because it simply needs to be strong enough to do the job.

4. Mixer

Another important tool is your mixer. You will use it to mix the plaster, and there are different models to choose from. You can choose a strong, durable mixer because it will be reliable. They are also designed for mixing all types of plaster. They come in an H-frame or a D-frame, and many people say that the H-frame is easier to use. When you use this type of mixer, you will get consistent results.

5. Water Brush

You use the water brush towards the end of the process, on the final coat of the plaster. If you find that your plaster is drying before you finish, you can use the water brush to keep it pliable.

6. Mixing Bucket

Finally, make sure that you have a mixing bucket where you can mix your plaster. Most mixing buckets are strong and last a while, and they are affordable.