How to Make Rustic Spanish Style Ceiling Beams

Measure the width of the ceiling. Locate the joists in your ceiling by using a stud finder. Mark the joists' position on the ceiling.

Use graph paper to draw the design you want on your ceiling with the number of beams you would like to install. Use the location of the studs to help configure the layout.

Cut nailer boards. The nailer board will provide a base for your beams to attach to the ceiling. These boards will be one foot in width and the length of your ceiling. You may need to install multiple nailers to fit from one side of your ceiling to another if you are covering a wide area. For example, if your nailer boards are 1-foot by 6-foot, you will need two nailer boards to cover a 12-foot long ceiling.

Draw a chalk line on your ceiling. This pattern should reflect the design you drew on graph paper. Measure where you will place your beams carefully so that they are evenly spaced.

Attach the nailer boards to the ceiling. Screw three ½-inch deck screws into the boards every two feet.

Cut the boards that you will use for your wooden beams equal to the width of the ceiling. For example, if the ceilings are eight-feet long, cut the boards to eight feet. Cut all boards at a 90-degree angle. You will need three boards for each beam.

Place one wooden board on a flat surface. Apply wood glue to the side of the board to keep it in place. Place another board against the glue and use 1½-inch finishing nails spaced out every four inches. Repeat the process on the other side of the board laying flat. You will now have a three-sided box.

Add wood filler to cover the nail holes. Sand the box.

Apply a dark wooden stain. Use a product that is typically used on decks to get the rustic look you are going for. Use a paint brush to apply the stain and follow with a rag to wipe away some of the stain. Let the stain dry. Add another coat if necessary.

Attach the beam to the nailer board. Place the box over the nailer board and use two ½-inch finishing nails spaced every six inches near the top of the box so you nail the box into the nailer board. Repeat the installation for all of the beams until you have covered all of the nailer boards.