Purchase stucco in the color, consistency and density of your preference. Most craft and hardware stores sell a variety of kinds of stucco. Choose the type of stucco you would like to use in your artistic endeavor.
Open the container for your stucco and stir it thoroughly with a stirrer. Stucco has a tendency to separate after sitting on a shelf for long periods of time, making it essential that it be properly mixed before use.
Apply an amount of stucco to your palette.
Use a putty knife to apply the stucco to your canvas.
Allow the stucco to completely dry before applying other paints or a second coat. Most stucco dries in about an hour, but check on your brand's instructions for a more specific timeline.