Paint A Bedroom Tray Ceiling To Match The Walls

A tray ceiling adds additional architectural design and elements to the fifth wall--the ceiling. Tray ceilings are inverted ceilings often featuring additional decorative trim and molding. The recessed ceilings are many times found in kitchens, dining rooms, living rooms and bedrooms. Paint a tray ceiling to match the wall to continue the flow of color. The balance of the same color on the walls and ceiling will allow for a monochromatic look.

Instructions

1. Choose the correct paint color. Bring in a sample of the wall color to a paint store for computer identification and matching. Have the wall paint scanned and analyzed to determine the exact color formulation. If a sample of the wall paint is not available, choose a large variety of color sample cards that are close to the wall color. Hold the samples against the wall color to determine a match.

Ask the paint center if you can borrow the entire paint deck to examine all colors at home. Some paint stores or home improvement centers will allow a paint deck to be checked out when placing a refundable deposit.

2. Prepare the room to be painted. Clear all furniture and accessories from the room. Use painter's tape to mask off ceiling fans, light fixtures, ceiling vents and fire alarms. Cover items with clear plastic. Cover all flooring with heavy-duty drop cloths and plastic. Remember to cover all surfaces because paint will slightly splatter when applied to the ceiling.

3. Attach a painter's pole to a roller frame. Use a pole that is several feet long to ensure the ceiling can be reached. Pour paint into a paint tray and lightly roll the roller into the paint. Evenly spread the paint onto the ceiling as close to the perimeter of the ceiling as possible. Leave a 2 to 3 inch wide gap around the ceiling's edge. Roll sections quickly, in straight horizontal or vertical strokes. Remember not to apply a heavy amount of pressure to avoid paint dripping. Continue to paint the entire ceiling surface, and apply more than one coat if necessary to achieve a solid opaque color.

4. Use a trim brush to paint the perimeter of the tray ceiling. Dip the angled brush into the paint. Sweep the tip of the brush along the edge to paint the remaining ceiling area. Paint around any additional fixtures where the roller could not meet, including around the base of a fan or light fixture.

5. Remove all masking tape and turn on the ceiling fan for additional air circulation in the room. Wash out all brushes and paint equipment. Label the paint can with the color and area used. Hammer the lid on with a rubber mallet and store for future use. Pick up all drop cloths and plastic.

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