- Step 1: The stucco mix is applied to the outside of a building at a 45° angle with a trowel. The thickness of the layer of stucco should be about ⅜ of an inch over an entire area. - Step 2: The stucco is evened out using a straight edge or a darby. - Step 3: Using a raking tool, a scratch coat is applied on top of the first stucco coat. Leave it to dry for 48 hours. - Step 4: Another ⅜ inch-thick coat (called the brown coat) is applied on top of the scratch coat. - Step 5: Even out the brown coat and fill in any gaps, bringing the total thickness of the stucco to ¾ inches. - Step 6: After the stucco loses its sheen, float its surface evenly. - Step 7: Cure the stucco with a fine water mist and leave it to dry for 24 to 48 hours. - Step 8: add additional coats of stucco as needed for the type of building.