How to Paint a Ceiling

Best Of Hometalk
by Best Of Hometalk

If your space needs a pick-me-up, painting the ceiling may be the perfect solution. Whether you’re freshening up a coat of white paint or going bold with a bright color or pattern, a fresh coat of paint will make a big difference in any room. The best way to paint a ceiling is a bit different than the process for painting a wall. Here is an overview of the process plus some helpful ceiling painting tips.

How to Paint a Ceiling (Pixabay)

Step 1: Choose the Best Ceiling Paint for Your Space

Once you’ve decided to paint your ceiling, the first step is to determine the best type of paint for your particular ceiling. If you have a smooth ceiling that is already painted, then you have the most options. There are specially formulated ceiling paints that have a particular viscosity and sheen that allows for a drip-free application, but they are pricier than regular interior latex paints. If you decide to go with regular latex paint, try to pick a paint with a KU (Krebs Units) measurement that is 106 or higher (you can find this on the back of the can). The KU measures the thickness of the paint. These paints will stick better to the ceiling, preventing unwanted drips during the drying process. Opt for a no- or low-luster sheen to minimize the appearance of imperfections. If you are going from a dark paint color to a light paint color, then you’ll want to start with a coat of primer before painting.


Many people think of white as the sole color option for ceilings, but there are many other hues that can be used to add character to your space. Other colors will heighten drama and create contrast. Be sure to choose a color that picks up on similar hues throughout the room to create a cohesive look. Patterns are also an option if you’re interested in stenciling a design on your ceiling.


Please note that there is specially formulated ceiling tile paint for rooms where acoustics are important, and there is another process altogether for painting popcorn ceilings (see step 6).

Ceiling Paint (Jennifer Allwood)

See post: Jennifer Allwood|My Painted Black Ceiling


Step 2: Decide on a Pattern (If You’re Stenciling)

If you have decided to tackle stenciling your ceiling, then you’ll want to figure out what type of pattern to use. First, think about what kind of style you’re typically drawn to – do you like more traditional patterns? Or perhaps modern geometrics are your thing? Use these preferences to begin your search for the perfect design. You will also want to consider scale. If the ceiling you are stenciling is tiny, then you will want to avoid large scale patterns and go for something a bit more intricate. Now is the time to consider the color combination of your pattern as well. Make sure that the main ceiling color is the lighter color in your combination. For example, if you want to have a gray and black pattern, then the ceiling should start out gray and you will stencil the black over it. To make it easy on yourself, use your existing ceiling color as one of your two hues.

Painting a Patterned Ceiling (Cutting Edge Stencils)

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Frequently asked questions
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  1 question
  • Lisbon Lion 67 Lisbon Lion 67 on Feb 18, 2020

    Can you please advise me on how to "Remove" a bit of "Spray Paint" from my "Bath", I made a silly mistake while "Spraying" the Board at side,the "Bath" is Fibre Glass". Thank you.

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