Hi, welcome to Plaster Talk!



The topcoat that is sold at HD for the VP, gives a plastic look to the finish. However, it will offer the protection that you want from fingerprints etc.



According to the manufacturer, this topcoat does require burnishing to achieve a decent shine.



Allow for good curing before proceeding with a wax or topcoat.

Twenty-four hours for an acrylic based plaster is a good time period assuming normal temperature and humidity.



David

Decent, according to the manufacturer is satin.



If you want to apply a poly finish, the manufacturer says to burnish first--by sanding with 400/600 grit sandpaper.



If you want to "topcoat", then burnish after applying the topcoat.

Do not apply the topcoat too thick--it will have a whitish look to it.



David





TOPCOAT ADVICE: (from manufacturer's website)

"Apply before burnishing and after the VENETIAN PLASTER finish has completely dried, approximately 24 hours. Be sure to apply the topcoat and burnish within 7 days of the VENETIAN PLASTER application."

Talk about confusion! They don't even all agree that it should be burnished at all.

I assume that you are talking about Behr--Plaster since that is what HD sells.

I would burnish the plaster and then apply a glossy high grade poly-acrylic over it, and call it done.

Best wishes for your project!

David

For minimum yellowing, use water based products.

Good advice.

Amy, have you used any of the aliphatic polyurethanes?
The manufacturers allege that this new type does not yellow. Umm.

David

Nope, never heard of them. I would have to see it to believe it. I have yet to see or use a poly that doesn't eventually turn. Mineral refining processing and synthetics have come light years, but the yellow still lingers. The only thing that I poly are floorcloths so it doesn't bother me. It makes them look better.