Want To Transform Your Outdoor Space into a Calming, Boho-Chic Escape (Um, Yes)?

And if youre curious abouthowto paint your ceiling, you might DIY.

Below, check out a step-by-step guide to painting your ceiling.

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environmental psychologist

Tim Malcolm is a home care expert at Hippo.

Can painting your ceiling to match the walls make a room look larger?

A lighter color or painting [the ceiling] white would open it up more, says Swarz.

woman lounging in boho outdoor furniture

interior designer based in Los Angeles

Conversely, Dr. Augustin suggests avoiding overly saturated huesshe states turquoise blue and pumpkin orange as examples.

Tools needed for painting a ceiling

1.

Drop cloth

Drop cloth keeps floors and furniture paint-free.

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It is machine washable so clean-up is easy, and it comes in nine sizes.

It has medium-level adhesion to mask off areas you dont want paint on.

Just keep in mind that this formula is typically made for minor surface repairs.

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It dries within minutes of program too, so you could paint over it immediately.

Putty knife

If you plan on using spackle, you might want to purchase a putty knife.

A putty knife allows you to apply spackle where you want it and scrape off any excess.

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interior designer based in Los Angeles

It comes in different blade widths, ranging from 1.5 inches all the way to 6 inches.

There are a wide range of caulk materials available, so its important to choose one thats paintable.

It goes on white and dries after two hours of applicationa feature that many Amazon reviewers love.

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According to Amazon reviewers, its made the process of applying caulk so much easier.

While youll be inundated with options that range in terms of abrasivenesstypically measured in gritMalcolm recommends a 220-grit variety.

They can be used by hand, plus theyre safe to use on a variety of surfaces.

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Paint roller cover

A paint roller can quickly distribute onto large surfaces like the ceiling.

Paint roller covers will typicallyvary in terms of material and the thickness of the nap.

As a bonus, it comes in a pack of six.

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Use them with a standard 9-inch paint roller.

It weighs less than half a pound too, making it incredibly lightweight.

Theyre made of plastic, and they come in a pack of 12 for just $12.

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The disposable liners are compatible with the Wooster Brush paint tray featured above.

Malcolm recommends using a six-foot step ladder, which should allow you easy access when painting the ceiling.

It also has a tray to store paint and other materials that you might need in a pinch.

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When youre done using it, the ladder folds up quickly for easy storage.

Primer

Before painting your ceiling in the color of your choice, applying primer is necessary.

According to Malcolm, a primer helps to seal the wall and prevent mold.

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It hides mild to moderate stains and previously applied colors, offering a clean canvas for paint.

The primer takes less than or up to an hour to dry, too.

These will not only make the painting process easier, but also give you the best-looking results.

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For budget projects, I always go with Benjamin Moore, says Gotlieb.

They have so many colors to choose from, and theyre all really good colors.

The quality of paint is impeccable, says Gotlieb, while Swarz says, Their pigments are exquisite.

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Whats more, you might use them for the ceiling as well as the walls.

Instructions for painting a ceiling

1.

Remove furniture

Relocate as much furniture as possible to another room.

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Use 220-grit sandpaper to lightly smooth rough patches and remove flaky paint.

Clean the ceiling

Wipe down the entire surface of the ceiling to remove dust and debris.

Apply primer

Using an angled paint brush, paint the perimeter of the ceiling with the primer.

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Sand the primer

Lightly sand the primer.

Wipe away dust from the ceiling with a damp sponge and let dry.

Paint the ceiling

With a clean paint brush, paint the perimeter of the ceiling surface.

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Aim for multiple coats to cover the ceiling, says Malcolm.

Frequently asked questions

How can you achieve a clean finish when painting the ceiling?

Malcolm recommends using the proper toolsandtechnique.

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Use a roller with an extension pole for more control over excess paint splatter, he says.

How can you paint a ceiling without making a mess?

Its important to always start by preparing your space, says Malcolm.

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Another pro tip from Malcolm?

Use the right paint for the job.

Ceiling paint is thicker and less likely to splatter than wall paint, he says.

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What is the preparation required prior to painting a ceiling?

He also recommends using caulk, which will fill in any gaps between the drywall and crown molding.

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