Skimming/plastering/boarding this wall - might try and do it myself

[bitstreams]

This is the back wall of the utility and there's very thin plaster over what looks like a rough render. I was thinking this would be a good place to practice plastering.

1. Should I chip off the old plaster?
2. Is it just a skim or a plaster and skim? (this question will show how little I know)
3. Should I just board it and either use the smooth side of the plasterboard or skim afterwards.
4. Something else.

 

[Wayners]

YouTube.
On the trowel.
Kirk is always making videos on how to plaster.

To answer
Take off surface plaster if it not stuck on well.
Buy some of Kirk's pink SBR. Few places sell that now local.
Seal
Skim following advice

 

[bitstreams]

Have just watched his beginners video and quite inspired to have a go. Is there a difference with skimming to first/second coat ?

 

[Wayners]

No.
Some mix once, say two buckets
Get first bucket and some of the second bucket on.
Add some water to the remaining bucket of plaster which will extend setting time.
Then get that on.
That's using one mix up but two skim coats.

Proper way.
Mix a full bucket and get it on.
Then mix a second fresh ½ bucket and get on.

Then the landlord special.
One mix and get on. Polish off. Job done