How to Tell the Difference (And Why It Matters)
Venetian plaster has become one of the most desirable wall finishes in luxury interiors, but as demand has grown, so has confusion. It can be overwhelming with the number of options out there in the market.
Many products and finishes are now marketed as “Venetian plaster” when in reality, they are paint-based or synthetic imitations that are not a true representation of this traditional, timeless surface coating.
At first glance, the difference can be subtle.
Over time, it becomes obvious.
Receiving guidance for your best surface and finishing options is where we come in.
This guide explains:
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What real Venetian plaster actually is
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What faux Venetian plaster really means
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How to spot the difference, visually and physically
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Why choosing the right one matters long term
What Is Real Venetian Plaster?
Authentic Venetian plaster is a natural, mineral-based finish, traditionally made from:
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Slaked lime
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Fine marble dust
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Natural pigments
It is applied in multiple thin layers, compressed and burnished by hand to create depth, movement, and a stone-like surface.
Key characteristics of real Venetian plaster:
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Breathable and vapour permeable
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Develops patina over time
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Naturally resistant to mould and bacteria
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Each wall is genuinely one-of-a-kind
- Feels natural, cool to the touch, smooth and hard
This is not just a coating; it is a handcrafted surface.
What Is Faux Venetian Plaster?
Faux Venetian plaster is typically:
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Acrylic or resin-based
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Paint or paste products
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Rolled or lightly trowelled on
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Designed to look like plaster, not behave like it
These finishes are often marketed as:
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“Venetian-style”
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“Polished plaster effect”
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“Lime-look decorative paint”
They can look convincing in photos, especially when new, but they perform very differently over time.
Faux vs Real Venetian Plaster: Key Differences
Material Composition
Real Venetian plaster
✔ Lime & marble based
✔ Mineral, breathable, natural
Faux plaster
✖ Acrylics, resins, fillers
✖ Essentially decorative paint
This affects everything from longevity to indoor air quality, and with many of our clients seeking out Venetian plaster due to it’s natural composition and zero V.O.C’s, the imitation version will not meet these requirements.
Depth, Movement & Light Interaction
Real Venetian plaster has:
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Subtle tonal variation
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Depth created through layered compression
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A surface that changes with light and viewing angle
Faux finishes tend to look:
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Flat or repetitive
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Uniform across large walls
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“Printed” rather than alive
- Plasticky in appearance
This difference becomes especially noticeable in natural daylight.
Durability & Ageing
Real Venetian plaster:
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Hardens over time through carbonation
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Can last decades
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Develops character rather than deteriorating
Faux plaster:
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Can scratch, scuff, or peel
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May yellow or fade
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Often needs repainting
Short-term saving, long-term compromise.
Repairability
This is a critical difference.
✔ Real Venetian plaster can often be locally repaired and re-burnished
✖ Faux finishes usually require repainting entire sections
Ironically, the “simpler” product is often harder to repair invisibly.
Breathability & Moisture Performance
Lime-based plaster:
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Allows walls to breathe
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Helps regulate humidity
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Is naturally mould-resistant
Paint-based faux products:
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Trap moisture
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Can blister or fail in damp environments
This is why real Venetian plaster is often specified in heritage buildings and high-end bathrooms, with the correct sealing methods.
How to Tell If Venetian Plaster Is Real
You can usually tell by asking (or checking):
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Is it lime-based or acrylic-based?
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Was it applied in multiple compressed layers?
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Does the surface have natural variation up close?
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Does it feel stone-like, not rubbery or plasticky?
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Does the installer specify sealing and aftercare?
If the answer is vague, it’s probably faux.
Why Faux Venetian Plaster Exists
To be fair, faux finishes have their place.
They can be suitable for:
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Tight budgets
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Temporary interiors or short-term pop-up placements
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Low-expectation commercial spaces
The problem arises when they are sold as the real thing.
Clients expect:
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Longevity
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Repairability
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Premium performance
And don’t get it.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose real Venetian plaster if you want:
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Authentic craftsmanship
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Long-term value
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Depth and tactility
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A finish that improves with age
Choose faux plaster only if:
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Budget is the primary driver
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Longevity isn’t critical
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You understand the compromise
There’s no right or wrong, only informed or uninformed decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is faux Venetian plaster cheaper?
Yes, initially. But it often costs more over time due to repainting or replacement in a shorter timeframe.
Can faux plaster look like real Venetian plaster?
In photos, sometimes. In real life and over time, rarely.
Is real Venetian plaster worth it?
For clients seeking longevity, quality, and authenticity, yes, absolutely.
Real Venetian Plaster, Done Properly
Signature Walls
At Signature Walls, we specialise exclusively in authentic Venetian plaster and mineral-based decorative finishes, not imitations.
Our focus is on:
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Correct specification
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Honest guidance
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Long-term performance
If you’re deciding between faux and real Venetian plaster, we’ll help you make the right choice for your space, not just the easy one.
Speak to our team for expert advice or visit our Venetian plaster showroom in Amersham to explore options in person.