Plastering your ceiling can transform a flat boring surface into something interesting and eye-catching. Applying the texture can be difficult, as it requires a consistent application over the entire surface. When done correctly, though, most application techniques allow completion of the coverage in a short amount of time. When completed, a well-textured ceiling adds a finished feeling to a room, along with a touch of class.
Preparation
Texturing a ceiling can be a messy business, so before you begin, cover and mask off all areas of the room you wish to protect from paint and texturing material. Once you have the place covered, prepare the surface of your ceiling.
Fix any of the ceiling's imperfections, such as holes or cracks, and then apply a primer coat to the surface so the texture material will stick. Along with providing a good surface for your material to stick to, priming brings out any hidden trouble areas that may have to be repaired and re-primed before continuing.
Application
There are four techniques for applying texture to your ceiling. You can use a roller, apply it with a drywall knife, use a sprayer, or stamp it to your surface. Each method works equally well, so you should choose the one that you're most comfortable with.
Roller Technique
Rolling on the texture is a simple process. Using a paint roller, apply textured paint or thinned drywall mud to the ceiling's surface. Try to get an even coating along the entire area, though the nature of the materials will make this somewhat difficult. You may need to use multiple layers in thin areas. For areas where texture appears to clump, use the roller to spread it out.
Spray Technique
If your goal is speed, spraying on the texture is the quickest way to apply the material to your ceiling. You'll need a texture hopper for this technique. You can rent texture hoppers from a local home improvement store or equipment rental shop. They are also relatively inexpensive to purchase. Using the hopper is fairly simple-- point the nozzle, and spray the texture onto the surface. Practice beforehand on a piece of cardboard to save yourself from applying an uneven application.
Stamp Technique
To give your ceiling a nicely detailed and unique look, try stamping the surface. Attach a stamper to a paint pole, and use it to apply texture material to the ceiling. The stamper is used by pressing the material to the ceiling and then removing the stamper, leaving a pointed texture from the motion of pulling the stamp straight back from the surface.
Venetian Ceiling Technique
Use a drywall knife to apply texture in what is known as the Venetian Ceiling technique. This method of application is slow and complex, requiring three layers of thin plaster applications and drying times between each successive layer, but the result is a design texture of your choice. You'll have to study up a bit before using this technique, as even the professionals tend to learn from experienced instructors.
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