What is a plasterer’s scratcher?

Scratchers are hand-held tools, used in multi layer plastering processes.

They are primarily used for scratching the surface to create better bonds between layers.

Scratchers can look like the one pictured – a simple handle with affixed prongs…

…or they can have flat tines attached to the handle via a backer plate.

These types of scratchers are also known as scarifiers. 

This tool can also be used as a scratcher, but it is referred to as a plasterer’s brush.  

This is the process in which the tools are used.