Things You'll Need
Drop cloths
Stepladder
Sandpaper
Razor knife
Lightweight joint compound
Taping knife
Dust mask
Painter's tape
Ceiling paint
Paintbrush
Paint tray
Roller
If you have an uneven ceiling with ridges and bumps, simply painting over it will not fix the problem. Since painting a ceiling can be hard on your arms and shoulders, don't just start painting and hope for the best. Instead, follow a few simple techniques to even out your ceiling, then apply new paint to a flat, prepared surface.
Step 1
Cover the floor of your room with painting drop cloths.
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Step 2
Stand on a stepladder so you can reach the ceiling. Sand or scrape any raised areas, dried paint drips or bumps off your ceiling using sandpaper or a razor knife.
Step 3
Apply a thin layer of lightweight joint compound to the ceiling using a taping knife. Allow the compound to dry overnight.
Step 4
Put on a dust mask. Sand any rough edges or raised spots.
Step 5
Repeat Steps 2 and 3 one or two more times until you are satisfied with the smoothness of the ceiling.
Step 6
Tape the walls at the edges of the ceiling using painter's tape. Use a paintbrush to paint around the edges.
Step 7
Pour ceiling paint into a tray. Use a roller to apply it to the ceiling. Let dry for 24 hours, then apply a second coat if desired.
Tip
Using several layers of thin drywall compound will give a smoother finish than one layer of a thick compound.
Warning
Use caution when standing on a ladder.
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