How to paint a ceiling other than white?

choose the lightest color from the swatch that matches your walls

I agree with Janet.

Our bedroom ceiling is a dark midnight blue --- paint it just like a wall -- if it's a Popcorn ceiling it may not be as successful as if it is just Sheetrock --- but any color you like -- but know that it may change your perspective of the room

http://homeguides.sfgate.com/painting-ceiling-make-room-look-bigger-smaller-50764.html

Your ceiling is your 5th wall and can be any color you choose. Want to be more traditional? Then white, off-white or any 'lightest of' colors will work. Want a WOW! ceiling? Then try something bolder. Pick a favorite color from the room or the decor. Love that turquoise from the rug, or that deep brown-red that matches the wood coffee table you love? Try those. Yellows, pinks and reds draw the eye up and make the room seem fun and vibrant. Dark navy, browns and even black makes the room feel closed in and intimate, more of a home theater feel. Just do whatever feels good for you. If you find you don't care for it, it's cheap to repaint. Have fun!

Hi Carole! I think you can paint a ceiling whatever color you would like. A lighter color is the "norm" but what is normal? lol I like the look you have in this room. Are you wondering how to paint the thin edge you have? You can purchase all sorts of flat hard plastic paint pad holders. Put in a pad, dip in the paint and it will cover those edges in a jiffy. No muss, no fuss.

It's your den - go crazy! How about sky?

My daughter and her boyfriend painted the ceiling of their condo living room metallic gold and, although, I was not sure it would work, it looks great! Granted, their ceiling style is rounded to the wall.

Our ceiling is painted the same color as the walls. Hate white ceilings looks like a huge diaper on the ceiling.