Hand Plastering Tools in Northern Rivers
- Locally owned and operated
- Top brands, trusted quality
- Conveniently located in Lismore
Northern Rivers Hand Plastering Tools
When it comes to detail work in plastering, hand tools are where precision meets performance. At North Coast Plaster Solutions, based in Lismore and servicing the Northern Rivers from Tweed to Coffs Harbour, we stock a wide range of high-quality hand tools designed to give you full control over every finish. Whether you’re working on tight corners, patching tricky areas, or polishing up the final coat, the right tool in your hand makes all the difference. From trowels and joint knives to hawks and sanding blocks, we’ve got you covered with tools that feel right and perform even better.
- Designed for precision work
- Perfect for touch-ups and tight spots
- Built for comfort and long-term use
Whether you're a seasoned plasterer or tackling a DIY job, having the right hand tools means less frustration and a better end result.
Drop by our Lismore store or call
0431 694 417 to get the gear you need—without the guesswork.
Quality Tools, Ready to Go
Tools That Work as Hard as You Do
Plastering is all about the finish, and that’s where hand tools shine. These tools are essential for the parts of the job that require finesse—think tight edges, fine smoothing, and final detailing. A great trowel or knife should feel balanced, responsive, and sturdy enough to hold up across countless jobs. We carry a full selection of must-have hand tools from trusted brands like Level 5, Columbia, and CanAm, giving you options that match your workflow and style.
No two jobs are exactly the same, and neither are the tools you'll need. That’s why it’s so important to choose tools that are designed for both comfort and performance, especially for long days on site.
Need help choosing the right tool? Call
0431 694 417 or visit us in-store—we’ll help you find the perfect fit.
Joint Knife Carbon Soft Grip 1" 25.4mm Level5
A joint knife (or “putty knife”) can be found in the back pocket of most drywall finishers.
These versatile tools are used for setting & cutting drywall tape, applying joint compound & other filler materials, cleaning up drywall edges, scraping paint & residue, resetting exposed screws, and much more…
Product Specifications
- VERSATILE | Ideal for setting & cutting drywall tape, applying joint compound & other filler materials, cleaning up drywall edges, scraping paint & residue, resetting exposed screws, and much more!
- SUPER COMFORTABLE | LEVEL5 grip profile was developed through years of finisher feedback to minimize hand fatigue. Soft grip provides all-day comfort, even when wet.
- EASY TO USE | A lateral hollow grind provides proper flex midway up the stainless steel blade (versus near the handle). The blade feels nicely broken-in from the first moment you use it.
- PRO-GRADE | LEVEL5 stainless steel alloy has higher carbon & iron than typical, providing enhanced flex and enabling the blade to hold an edge longer - while still providing excellent corrosion resistance.
- EASY CLEANUP | Mirror polished to reduce mud accumulation.
Joint Knife Carbon Soft Grip 2" 50.8mm Level5
A joint knife (or “putty knife”) can be found in the back pocket of most drywall finishers.
These versatile tools are used for setting & cutting drywall tape, applying joint compound & other filler materials, cleaning up drywall edges, scraping paint & residue, resetting exposed screws, and much more…
Product Specifications
- VERSATILE | Ideal for setting & cutting drywall tape, applying joint compound & other filler materials, cleaning up drywall edges, scraping paint & residue, resetting exposed screws, and much more!
- SUPER COMFORTABLE | LEVEL5 grip profile was developed through years of finisher feedback to minimize hand fatigue. Soft grip provides all-day comfort, even when wet.
- EASY TO USE | A lateral hollow grind provides proper flex midway up the stainless steel blade (versus near the handle). The blade feels nicely broken-in from the first moment you use it.
- PRO-GRADE | LEVEL5 stainless steel alloy has higher carbon & iron than typical, providing enhanced flex and enabling the blade to hold an edge longer - while still providing excellent corrosion resistance.
- EASY CLEANUP | Mirror polished to reduce mud accumulation.
Joint Knife Carbon Soft Grip 4in 100mm Level5
Level 5 4”/100mm Soft-Grip Carbon Steel Drywall Joint Knife is ergonomically designed for all-day use with minimal fatigue on the jobsite. Level 5 hand tools have been built with over 20-years of feedback and input from professional finishers. Built to last with industry leading designs and high-quality materials and workmanship, these tools perform like no other.
Joint Knife Carbon Soft Grip 5in 125mm Level5
Level 5 5”/125mm Soft-Grip Carbon Steel Drywall Joint Knife is ergonomically designed for all-day use with minimal fatigue on the jobsite. Level 5 hand tools have been built with over 20-years of feedback and input from professional finishers. Built to last with industry leading designs and high-quality materials and workmanship, these tools perform like no other.
Joint Knife Carbon Soft Grip 6in 150mm Level5
Level 5 6”/150mm Soft-Grip Carbon Steel Drywall Joint Knife is ergonomically designed for all-day use with minimal fatigue on the jobsite. Level 5 hand tools have been built with over 20-years of feedback and input from professional finishers. Built to last with industry leading designs and high-quality materials and workmanship, these tools perform like no other.
Joint Knife Stainless Soft Grip 3in 75mm Level5
High quality stainless steel component for rust prevention. This 3” Level5 Stainless Steel knife also features robotically-welded seams that have been mirror polished. These knives are lightweight, extremely comfortable in the hand, and clean up like a dream. Features a hollow-grind provides proper flex point midway up the stainless steel blade (versus near the handle). This blade feels nicely “broken-in" from the first moment you use it - which means better feel for faster application rates, optimum blade control and smoother finishes. Polished for easy cleanup. Lifetime warranty on Manufacturer’s defects by Level5 Tools.
Joint Knife Stainless Soft Grip 4in 100mm Level5
High quality stainless steel component for rust prevention. This 4” Level5 Stainless Steel knife also features robotically-welded seams that have been mirror polished. These knives are lightweight, extremely comfortable in the hand, and clean up like a dream. Features a hollow-grind provides proper flex point midway up the stainless steel blade (versus near the handle). This blade feels nicely “broken-in" from the first moment you use it - which means better feel for faster application rates, optimum blade control and smoother finishes. Polished for easy cleanup. Lifetime warranty on Manufacturer’s defects by Level5 Tools.
Joint Knife Stainless Soft Grip 5in 125mm Level5
High quality stainless steel component for rust prevention. This 5” Level 5 Stainless Steel knife also features robotically-welded seams that have been mirror polished. These knives are lightweight, extremely comfortable in the hand, and clean up like a dream. Features a hollow-grind provides proper flex point midway up the stainless steel blade (versus near the handle). This blade feels nicely “broken-in" from the first moment you use it - which means better feel for faster application rates, optimum blade control and smoother finishes. Polished for easy cleanup. Lifetime warranty on Manufacturer’s defects by Level 5 Tools.
Product Specifications
- Stainless steel blade
- Soft grip handle
- Blade width: 125mm
Key Benefits
- Durable and long-lasting
- Resistant to rust and corrosion
- Comfortable to use for extended periods
- Provides smooth and even application
- Easy to clean and maintain
Joint Knife Stainless Soft Grip 6in 150mm Level5
High quality stainless steel component for rust prevention. This 6” Level5 Stainless Steel knife also features robotically-welded seams that have been mirror polished. These knives are lightweight, extremely comfortable in the hand, and clean up like a dream. Features a hollow-grind provides proper flex point midway up the stainless steel blade (versus near the handle). This blade feels nicely “broken-in" from the first moment you use it - which means better feel for faster application rates, optimum blade control and smoother finishes. Polished for easy cleanup. Lifetime warranty on Manufacturer’s defects by Level5 Tools.
Mitre Box Plastic Exalia
This high impact polystyrene mitre box will cut your cornice and last a lot longer than your regular mitre box. Made in Australia and owned 100% by Australian, this plastic mitre box is ideal for use as a guide to make precise mitre cuts in cornice. Cut up to 12 cornice size precisely, it is also weather and water-resistant.
Scraper 4 Edge Hyde
Hyde Tools 10540 Black & Silver® 1-1/2in Lifetime 4-Edge Scraper is ergonomically designed scraper for scraping chipped, peeling paint and coatings. It features a well-balanced, and lightweight handle. Features well balanced polypropylene handle provides extra leverage, while keeping hand clear of working surfaces.
Small Tool Steel 25mm Italian Wallboard
In the size of 25mm, these Italian made steel Small Tools are a must for plasterers dealing with finer plasterwork. Made from forged and tempered steel and featuring a flexible trowel with a semi-stiff heel they are designed to give the user real fingertip control.
Taping Knife Stainless 8in 200mm Level5 Tools
The Level 5 stainless steel 8 inch taping knife is built with premium stainless steel blade that is precise flex for a better finish, faster application rate and corrosion resistant. It comes with full soft grip handle, lightweight, comfortable and ergonomically designed for all-day use with minimal fatigue. Glass reinforced nylon core, impact and solvent resistant. Level 5 tools is constructed for high performance, efficiency and durability.
Trowel Gold SS / Leather Handle 290mm Level5
The Level 5’s Gold Stainless Steel Trowel 11.5in (290mm) with the leather handle is built with the professional in mind. They are lightweight but offer the sturdy construction professionals demand and will provide years of reliable, all day use on the job site. Pro Plaster Products is the exclusive Australian distributor of Level 5 Tools.
Trowel Gold SS / Leather Handle 355mm Level5
The Level 5’s Gold Stainless Steel Trowel 12” (355mm) with the leather handle is built with the professional in mind. They are lightweight but offer the sturdy construction professionals demand and will provide years of reliable, all day use on the job site. Pro Plaster Products is the exclusive Australian distributor of Level 5 Tools.
Hawk Blackhawk 325mm DEWALT
The patent-pending DEWALT Drywall Finishing Hawk features a hard coat, non-stick finish that is easy to clean, wear and corrosion-resistant. Your trowel/knife will glide across the surface making it the smoothest hawk you’ve ever used.
The DEWALT Hawk features a 13” X 13” square surface with rounded corners. Made of solid extruded aluminum this hawk will hold up under extreme conditions.
Developed for all-day use, the DEWALT Hawk features a soft-grip, ergonomic handle and durable foam pad for additional comfort. The hawk’s handle is also hollow for easy mounting on scaffold or workstations, and the handle can be easily removed for easy cleaning & storage.
Product Specifications
- Made from high-grade tempered aluminium
- Features a 325mm blade
- Equipped with a comfortable foam handle
- Designed with a rounded edge for a smooth finish
- Includes a stainless steel blade holder
- Comes with a DEWALT Xtreme Torque (DXTT) motor
Key Benefits
- Constructed with a robust design for long-lasting durability
- Offers a smooth application of plaster due to its precise blade
- Provides excellent control and balance during use
- Ensures less hand fatigue due to its ergonomic foam handle
- Allows for easy blade replacement with its stainless steel blade holder
- Delivers high performance with its DEWALT Xtreme Torque (DXTT) motor
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the essential hand tools for plastering?
The most essential hand tools for plastering include a plastering trowel, joint knife, hawk, corner trowel, and sanding block. The plastering trowel is used to apply and smooth out plaster over walls and ceilings. A hawk holds plaster for quick access while working. Joint knives are ideal for taping and finishing drywall seams. Corner trowels help create clean internal corners, and sanding blocks are used for the final smoothing stage. Having the right combination of these tools ensures accuracy, efficiency, and a smooth finish.
How do I choose the right plastering trowel?
Choosing the right plastering trowel depends on the type of work you're doing. For larger areas, a longer, flexible trowel can help cover more space quickly while still delivering a smooth finish. If you're working in tight spaces or corners, a smaller trowel provides better control. Consider the handle material and grip comfort as well—ergonomic handles reduce fatigue during long jobs. Stainless steel blades are durable and resist rust, making them a popular choice for professional use.
How do I maintain my plastering hand tools?
Proper care of plastering hand tools extends their lifespan and maintains performance. After each use, clean off all plaster residue before it hardens. Use warm water and a stiff brush if needed. Dry tools thoroughly to prevent rust, especially if they’re made of carbon steel. For tools with moving parts or adjustable blades, occasional oiling may be needed. Store tools in a dry, protected space and avoid throwing them into toolboxes where they can get damaged or bent.
What’s the difference between a hawk and a trowel?
A hawk is a flat, handheld platform used to hold plaster while you work. It allows for quick, easy access to the material without needing to return to the bucket constantly. A trowel, on the other hand, is used to apply and smooth the plaster onto the surface. The hawk supports the workflow, while the trowel does the actual finishing. Using them together creates an efficient plastering process, especially for walls and ceilings.
