The Easiest Way to Paint Your Ceiling

Looking to transform a drab room? Make a statement by adding a bold color to an unexpected place.

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Photo By: Jalynn Baker

Before: All White Room

Is your bedroom looking a little plain these days? One way to spruce things up is to paint the fifth wall — ceiling — a bold new color. Here's how to do it...

Apply Painter's Tape

Use painter's tape to cover the crown molding around the perimeter of the ceiling.

Cover Your Corners

Pay extra attention to the corners of your crown molding when applying painter's tape. You want a nice, crisp line when you're done painting.

Prep The Paint

Remove the lid of the paint can and stir to ensure color consistency. Now would also be a good time to lay down a tarp so that paint doesn't drip down onto your carpet.

Paint the Trim First

Cut in about 3-4 inches from the tape and apply paint with a paintbrush.

Smooth It Out

Smooth out the cut-in area by lightly brushing the tip of the bristles over the newly painted area to create a feathered edge.

Use a Roller

A large roller will make quick work of your ceiling. Coat with paint and you're on your way.

Paint the Ceiling

Place a loaded paint roller in the corner of the room and roll in one direction in parallel lines (not in a "W" or "V" pattern) toward the opposite side of the room.

Painting Tip

Pro tip: Avoid painting directly over your head!

Add Texture

A rug is a great way to add another layer and texture to your room. We recommend laying one down where the bed will be.

Choose Your Light Fixture

A unique light fixture — like this Sputnik light — will pop against your newly painted ceiling.

Colorful Decor

Pick out colors that complement your ceiling but don't be afraid to mix patterns and textures.

Bright Lights

A bold table lamp is a perfect accessory for your newly updated room.

After: Pulling It All Together

Carry the new color of your ceiling throughout the space by choosing accent pieces that are a similar shade — like the velvet green bench and plant life in this photo.

The Easiest Way to Paint Your Ceiling

Related To:

Before: All White Room

Apply Painter's Tape

Cover Your Corners

Prep The Paint

Paint the Trim First

Smooth It Out

Use a Roller

Paint the Ceiling

Painting Tip

Add Texture

Choose Your Light Fixture

Colorful Decor

Bright Lights

After: Pulling It All Together

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