How do I paint a textured ceiling?

Prepare for Painting Steps Pick a color for the ceiling. Feel free to pick something other than white if it suits your taste. Measure the area of the ceiling and buy paint from a paint store, home improvement center, lumberyard or hardware store. (See Tips.) Pick up masking tape, plastic sheeting, and paint rollers or a paint sprayer while you're at the store. Remove as much furniture as possible from the room you're working in. Cover all floors and any objects left in the room completely with plastic sheeting. Cover the upper 3 feet of the walls with plastic sheeting. (Tape or staple it in place - this is a lot easier with a second set of hands.) Vacuum as much dust and cobwebs as possible from the ceiling. Avoid dragging the vacuum attachment directly over the texture. Tips & Warnings The store clerk will be able to tell you how much paint you'll need, depending on the paint you select. We recommend standard ceiling paint - some other types of paint can cause problems down the road ...  more