How to Apply Skip Troweled Stucco

How to Apply Skip Troweled Stucco
Published: Mar 29, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Skip troweling leaves the surface with a deeply textured pattern and is achieved with a trowel. Make sure the surface is clean and dry before applying stucco for the best adherence of the finish.

Things You Will Need

  • Stucco mix (coarse sand blend)
  • Bucket
  • Water
  • Small stainless steel trowel
  • Stucco Tampico brush
  • Large stainless steel trowel
  1. Mix stucco according to package directions in a bucket. Use a small stainless steel trowel to mix the stucco thoroughly.

  2. Apply a 1/8 inch layer of stucco mix to the surface with a large stainless steel trowel. Apply in smooth, even wide strokes while holding the trowel at a 10-degree angle. Allow to dry according to drying time printed on package.

  3. Mix another batch of stucco according to package directions. However, mix to the consistency of pudding by adding water and mixing thoroughly with a small trowel.

  4. Work in sections. Dip a stucco Tampico brush into the wet stucco mix. Splatter onto the wall in a random pattern by flicking the brush toward the wall.

  5. Allow the stucco to dry on the wall for about 15 minutes. Smooth the tops of the stucco blobs with a large stainless steel trowel. Feather the stucco blobs with random strokes of the trowel to avoid creating a pattern.

  6. Repeat for the next section of wall. Feather each section to the previously done sections.

The Drip Cap

  • Stucco is a finish masonry product used on interior and exterior walls.
  • Apply a 1/8 inch layer of stucco mix to the surface with a large stainless steel trowel.
  • Apply in smooth, even wide strokes while holding the trowel at a 10-degree angle.
  • Mix another batch of stucco according to package directions.

Photo Credits

stucco texture image by MAXFX from Fotolia.com

stucco texture image by MAXFX from Fotolia.com

Emily Patterson

Emily Patterson has been creating content for websites since 1996. She specializes in home improvement, natural body care and natural cleaning articles. Patterson holds a computing certificate from Penn State University.

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