What Do I Need to Stucco My Ceiling?

Basic Tools

• A few pieces of basic equipment are necessary whether you opt for using plaster or a textured paint for your stucco ceiling. A ladder with a paint tray holder allows you to reach the ceiling while keeping your paint or plaster nearby. Drop cloths will protect your floor and furniture. If the room you're working in doesn't have a window, use a fan to improve air circulation and to help your plaster or paint dry.

Interior Stucco Tools

• If you choose to test your artistic side and use an interior stucco to create patterns in your ceiling, you'll need the tools and products to apply the plaster and to make the designs. Interior stucco is a plaster-like material you can find in larger home-supply stores. To apply the material, you'll need putty knives or trowels. You can use the putty knives to make patterns as you apply the material, or you can make a smooth surface and then create texture with paint rollers, brushes, metal combs or sponges.

Texured Paint Tools

• For those who want to leave their artistic endeavors aside, you can create a stucco-like appearance with textured paint. Choose a smooth- or sand-textured paint. To apply this paint, you'll need tools familiar to any painting project: paint pans, rollers and brushes. A roller extension rod allows you to stand on the floor and paint the ceiling, but some homeowners may find them cumbersome.

Preparation and Cleaning

• Before you begin working on your ceiling, you'll need the equipment to do a little prep work. Use a bucket of soapy water to clean away dirt, dust and grease from the ceiling. If your ceiling has any holes or cracks, apply joint compound or spackle with a putty knife. Mask off the area where your ceiling meets the wall and around any light fixtures in the ceiling with masking tape.