DIY Plaster Range Hood

How We Created A DIY Plaster Range Hood For Under $100

I’ve always loved the look of Venetian plaster range hoods but could never afford one. I’ll show you how I created our DIY plaster range hood to get the look without the price tag. I wanted to create a modern kitchen with classic touches which make our small kitchen design stand out from typical builder-grade kitchens. Follow along on our small kitchen remodel on an even smaller budget.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.

Range Hood Frame

We first created a frame out of 2×4’s to give us the shape we desired, we only had cabinets above our stove previously so we had to build the frame from scratch (I forgot to take a photo of the frame, sorry!) We then cut out pieces of 3mm MDF and covered the frame. A nail gun was used to secure a vinyl corner bead along the edges to ensure it didn’t crack over time. We chose a vinyl corner bead that you can glue or nail in place, it is WAY easier to use than the paper corner bead.

An old range hood vent fan was placed inside the new range hood, and secured to the frame. To cover the bottom of the range hood, we used a 1/2″ piece of plywood and cut an 11″ x 23″ hole to allow access to the vent fan. I then glued a 12″ x 24″ decorative aluminum sheet to cover the hole. This is only temporary as we still have to install the exhaust duct since the previous owners never installed one. It would be more beneficial to use a metal vent cover with clips in order to easily remove the cover to access the fan.

Plaster Application

For the faux plaster, we used a low-dust drywall compound. I applied a thin coat of drywall compound with a 6-inch drywall knife. Once it dried for 24 hours, I applied a second coat in different directions to give it some texture. If you want a smooth finish then just do multiple thin coats in the same direction. (Note** It will crack if you apply it too thick)

Once I achieved the look I was going for, I let it dry for another 24 hours then gave it a coat of primer. I prefer the matte white finish of primer but if you want a specific colour then you would paint it on top of the primer in a matte or eggshell finish. With all the moisture that goes on in the kitchen, it will peel if you do not apply a primer.