Instead of using sand, white marble dust may be substituted. However, this is not a material usually carried by normal retail outlets. The only other alternative would be for an artist to purchase white marble tiles and pulverize them. This isn't exactly palatable if the artist is looking for ways to alleviate the need for constructivism. Another way to help curb the construction appetite is to eliminate the need for wooden panels, metallic laths, and multiple arricio layers.
Cement boards are a common underlayment for ceramic tile in damp areas such as bathrooms.
This composite of cement and fibers is virtually water proof, will not warp, is relatively light in weight, cuts with a scoring knife, and offers a porous toothy surface conducive to plaster application. While paint choice may seem to be the most important step, paint is also the most familiar and easily obtainable product. For polyfresco, Precourt suggests that any polymer is suitable. In essence, paint can sometimes be as personal to an artist as their style, and it is up to the individual to decide what works best for that style. The individuality of art may be what makes the little used technique of fresco painting intriguing.