Removing plaster sand swirl texture

Hi all, We just bought a house that needs a lot of tlc. Beyond the many layers of wallpaper and paneling I have found the original plaster wall texture called sand swirl. I'd like to get rid of this texture and then apply a thin knockdown texture so it doesn't look so dated. I have experience with drywall but plaster is a whole new ball game. I am thinking I need to repair all existing cracks and then do a skim coat over the entire surface. I am wondering what products would be best for this? Do I need to prep the painted surface with something to ensure a good bond? I have heard so many different ideas. I'd like to do this properly without removing any plaster as the walls are structurally sound. Thanks in advance!

 

Welcome to the forums!

I'd scrape the walls a little [if it helps] and then apply a skim coat. Regular drywall mud will adhere fine although you might need to apply a primer first in the kitchen and bath rms - especially if it's painted with oil base enamel - http://www.doityourself.com/forum/pa...latex-oil.html

I've never used plaster but normally use a setting compound like Durabond for repairs as it dries as hard as plaster does ...... but skim coating a wall with durabond requires a greater skil level. Using the ready mix joint compound that comes in a bucket [a box is some areas] is a lot more user friendly.