Plastering Trowels

About Plastering Trowels

Plastering trowels are essential hand tools for professional plasterers and keen DIY enthusiasts, designed to apply, spread and smooth plaster, render and finishing compounds across walls and ceilings. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of plastering trowels from trusted brands including Marshalltown, Faithfull, DeWalt, Draper and RST, offering both traditional steel and modern stainless steel options to suit different applications and skill levels.

Available in various sizes and blade configurations, plastering trowels at MyToolShed feature different handle types including soft grip, leather and wooden options for comfort during extended use. The collection includes specialist variants such as pre-worn trowels for immediate use, flexible drywall trowels, finishing trowels and skimming tools, alongside essential plastering accessories like leaf and square tools for cutting and shaping.

Applications

Plastering trowels are used across various trades and projects:

• Professional plasterers for applying base coat and finishing plaster
• Dry lining specialists working with plasterboard joints and finishing compounds
• Builders and general contractors for patching and repair work
• Restoration professionals maintaining period properties
• DIY enthusiasts tackling home renovation and improvement projects
• Rendering specialists applying external wall coatings
• Decorators preparing surfaces for painting and wallpapering

Choosing The Right Plastering Trowels

When selecting a plastering trowel, consider these essential factors:

• Blade material: Stainless steel resists rust and requires less maintenance, whilst carbon steel offers traditional feel and can be more affordable
• Blade size: Larger blades (400-500mm) suit experienced plasterers covering broad areas, whilst smaller sizes (280-350mm) provide better control for beginners and detailed work
• Blade shape: Flat trowels for general plastering, curved blades for finishing and feathering edges
• Handle type: Soft grip handles reduce hand fatigue, leather offers durability and comfort, wooden handles provide traditional feel
• Pre-worn vs standard: Pre-worn trowels with rounded edges are ready for immediate finishing work, saving breaking-in time
• Flexibility: Flexible blades suit skim coating and finishing, whilst rigid blades better for heavier base coats
• Brand quality: Professional brands like Marshalltown and DeWalt offer superior durability for daily trade use

Frequently Asked Questions

What size plastering trowel should I choose?

Beginners should start with a 330-350mm trowel for better control, whilst experienced plasterers typically use 400-500mm blades for efficient coverage. The size also depends on the working area – smaller trowels suit tight spaces and patch repairs.

What's the difference between stainless steel and carbon steel trowels?

Stainless steel trowels resist corrosion, clean easily and maintain their finish longer, making them ideal for professional daily use. Carbon steel trowels are typically more affordable and some plasterers prefer their traditional handling characteristics, though they require more maintenance to prevent rust.

Do I need a pre-worn plastering trowel?

Pre-worn trowels have rounded edges that prevent lines and marks in finishing plaster, eliminating the break-in period required with new trowels. They're particularly beneficial for skim coating and final finishing work, though standard trowels can be manually worn in with use.