This is an old school trick to stabilize the old plaster surface and increase the bonding strength of your quickset mud.

Tools I use often:
DISCLAIMER: As an Amazon Associate I make a small commission from purchases through these links. Thank you for the support!!!!
Drywall knives:
2" https://amzn.to/2LwX8ty
4" https://amzn.to/32OHlw3
6" https://amzn.to/2LwP1x5
10" https://amzn.to/2QbLbOp (This one will rust if you leave it wet but feels nice to use)
10" https://amzn.to/3056fcU (This one is stainless. Stiffer, more expensive but won't rust)
Mud Pan with Grip!! (This is the BOMB! You will thank me!)
https://amzn.to/31tQauH
Tin Snips GOOD QUALITY!! https://amzn.to/2LzlOBv
Drywall Tape Holder!! https://amzn.to/32Udhzd
Paint Mixer for mud!! https://amzn.to/303fX0q
Full size mixer!! https://amzn.to/2LYrMLe
Mixing Drill (just in case)!! https://amzn.to/2O2oQ2P

Hawk and Trowels
13 inch hawk:
https://amzn.to/2ZWZXw2
13 inch trowels:
https://amzn.to/30aJPTB
https://amzn.to/2ZWH39d
https://amzn.to/2ZSY5Fj
12 inch trowels:
https://amzn.to/2Q5fGW4
https://amzn.to/2ZYKXxu
14 inch trowels:
https://amzn.to/34JeydR
https://amzn.to/34CdmsJ

Auto tools
If you don't want to think, here is the whole kit (Columbia is great quality too!) https://amzn.to/2UwPUae
Mud tubes and applicator:
https://amzn.to/2Xt65XR (different but works great, I have this one too)
https://amzn.to/2DBs1sz
https://amzn.to/2Vdy8x7
Flushers
https://amzn.to/2Dqa0x8
https://amzn.to/2GyDBGy
https://amzn.to/2Ix1Reo
Handle adjustable
https://amzn.to/2XuGP3x
https://amzn.to/2Xy5ILU
or fixed handle https://amzn.to/2DrNt2O
Corner roller (head only, you may need another handle)
https://amzn.to/2XpuJZo (cheaper)
https://amzn.to/2XpuNZ8 (better quality)