The Basic Plaster Trowel

• The basic plaster trowel is also known as a metal float. This is the most common type of plaster trowel and consists of a flat rectangular sheet of metal with a handle attached to the back. It is used to apply plaster and finish the plaster with a smooth texture.
  
  

The Margin Trowel

• Similar to a basic plaster trowel, the margin trowel is made from a flat rectangular sheet of metal, but in this case the handle extends from one of the edges of the rectangle not the back of the sheet. The design enables the margin trowel to be used in tight spaces where a basic plaster trowel may not fit.
  
  

The Gauging Trowel

• The gauging trowel is made from a flat sheet of metal, but instead of a rectangular shape, one end of the trowel is curved. Like the margin trowel the handle extends from one of the edges so that it may be used it tight spaces. The rounded end allows the plaster to be more easily picked up from the pail. The curved shape also allows the plaster to be carried further forward along the blade.