I guess it depends on how you apply it. Some trowel it and some do the roll/trowel.
I think the best way to go is the VP acrylic paint product. It's not the "real" deal, but costs a lot less and the home owner usually wants that particular thing, because chances are they've never seen the "real" product. Probably saw some stuff on TV or in another person's house that was the acrylic product and wanted it.
Venetian from Lowe's - Valspar. Is easy and dumb to work with. I did 2 fireplaces in a day. Roll/trowel. It is a lot of work, but it's not killing anyone if you've worked with it before. 1 day depending on the size of things and you should be able to finish most projects and collect a decent paycheck.
P.S. Sherwin doesn't sell a top-coat for it as far as I know which is kinda weird, seeing as its water soluble, it will actually remelt if you put water and rub it with a rag vigorously. I know Valspar tells you to buy their top coat product (trowel on), don't. Waste of time and money.
I top coat my 'fake' venetian with polycrylic, sprayed on with HVLP. Don't be bashful to load it up, the more the better you get that smooth feel. Follow the direction and your done plus you have some pretty good protection on it.
have fun.