The 5th Wall – Painting A Ceiling

Just when I thought I was done telling you about the changes I made to the dining room, I realized that I failed to mention the 5th wall.  How dare I?!  I mentioned that I painted it, but I didn’t give you deets.  Not that it’s all that interesting, but I do have a couple of tips that may help you take on your own ceilings (if you choose to paint them).

Painting a ceiling is my least favorite DIY project.  It’s right after removing wall paper, for me anyway.  I do always love the results though.  I don’t think I’ve ever met a painted ceiling that I didn’t love!  That’s saying something!  So, here’s how I get the job done while trying to avoid the neck cramp it can usually give you.

First off, you want to use a flat paint.  It’s the easiest paint to use on a ceiling (especially for a DIY’er).  Even the painting pros prefer a flat finish on a ceiling.  I chose Macadamia by Martha Stewart matched to Behr after taping the swatch to the ceiling and examining how it looked at different times of the day.  Then I used a short handled angled brush to cut in around the crown moulding.  I prefer not to use tape unless absolutely necessary.  A short handled brush gives you much better control.  Then I use a foam roller.

Now, I usually use a larger foam roller.  Unfortunately, it was after 8 p.m. and snowing when I started this project, and I didn’t have a larger roller on hand.  I had planned to wait until the next day to paint the ceiling.  When I realized I had to wait between coats while stenciling, I made a last minute decision and decided to go ahead and knock out both projects at the same time.  So, it took a little longer because of this small roller.  Anyhow, the whole point is that I use a foam roller.  That’s the important part.  I found after many painted ceiling projects that when you use a foam roller you get a very smooth application.  In addition the foam roller doesn’t weigh as much as a regular paint roller, so your arm doesn’t get as tired reaching above your head which also helps to ward off a neck cramp.

I also roll off some of the paint on a few dry paper towels so that the roller is somewhat dry.  This way you don’t have to worry about any paint spatter.  I didn’t use a drop cloth and didn’t have one paint drip!  I applied 2 coats using this somewhat dry roller method.

Here’s a closer look at the results.

I love the color!  I love how a painted ceiling adds so much to a room.  It adds a nice glow and highlights the crown moulding.  It just add a nice finishing touch, although this room isn’t quite finished yet.  I mean really, is it ever “finished”?!

Did you see my note on the door?  Yep, that door is going to be replaced with a black french style bi-swing door!  I’m so excited!  It’s not happening anytime soon, but it’s definitely happening!  I hope it looks as great as I’ve imagined it in my head.  Speaking of black, do you think I should paint it a high-gloss black or satin?  I’m not sure yet?  I’d love your to hear your thoughts!  Oh, and if you have any great ceiling painting tips, please share with the class!

Have a great weekend!  No school on Monday means mommy gets a 3-day weekend!  Woo to the hoo!

Linking up to the Power of Paint Party over at Domestically Speaking!