Before painting, pour your chosen paint into a paint tray. Use a roller with an extension pole, roll it in the paint, and remove any excess paint before starting. Begin applying the paint by pressing ...

If you're planning to remove glossy paint from a ceiling, you'll first need to boil vinegar in a saucepan or microwave it. Add ¼ cup of white vinegar to 1 gallon of water before heating the mixture.

That extra texture can also make the ceiling look lower. If you notice excess (still wet) paint, come back to it and roll in another direction. Steady as you go: Take breaks and don’t rush.

Most ceiling work requires a roller with 1 / 2 -inch nap, but heavily textured ceilings and those with a popcorn finish will require a 3 / 4 -inch nap or thicker.

Popcorn: Though popcorn walls and ceilings hark back to the ‘70s, the texture goes on easily and is superb at hiding imperfections; it is typically achieved with a sprayer.