September 10th, 2007

Pretty Coccio Pesto!

In my La la la Lobby post I shared the inspiration photo for our new lobby walls. After conferring with Linda Self from the School of Italian Plasters, we came up with a cool technique using an Italian lime plaster, Coccio Pesto, that REALLY captures the look. Lucky me, I have even maneuvered Linda into coming here to teach a class on how to actually DO this on a wall-with the help of a small group of students.

Modello Coccio Pesto

Coccio Pesto contains tiny bits of terra cotta that break apart as the plaster is compressed, imparting a really cool organic look and a slightly peachy color if left untinted. I did this small sample board shown above using a “negative weed” Modello pattern that allows you to create an imbedded design. If you run your hand across the surface it feels smooth and wonderful. Now, working with true lime plasters is an acquired skill and I could never find the time to attend the class. Fortunately for me, Linda and Doyle Self have now created a great series of educational CDs and after watching several (several times) I felt confident enough in my troweling skills to attempt this. Linda will be here the first week in October to guide us through putting a large Acanthus Damask pattern on the walls with this technique, as well as doing walls with some of the other beautiful plasters from the Safra line, including a metallic plaster, Metallo. Oh, my lobby is going to be fabulous!!

3 Responses to “Pretty Coccio Pesto!”

  1. Rhonda Canales Says:

    Melanie, Just another class to add to the list!! Your new space is going to be amazing. Now, have you decided which class the stria’d plaster is going to be in?? I cannot wait to see you in Bob’s class next week. This is going to be great fun!!!

  2. Melanie Says:

    Rhonda-

    Shimmering Wall Treatments, Nov 1-3!

  3. Rhonda Canales Says:

    I am marking my calendar!!!

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