Drywall Finishing Techniques for a Swirl Ceiling

Tools

• Create swirls with large round brushes. The brushes may be found in the drywall department of your local hardware store, but brushes found in the automotive and cleaning supply sections work just as well. Some swirl techniques are created by using a drywall trowel or plastic putty knife. Always have a five-gallon bucket at your side and filled with water to clean out your tools often. An extra brush or two is also recommended.

Material

• Use joint compound when creating plaster swirls on your ceiling. Joint compound is commonly referred to as drywall plaster or mud. It is an inexpensive material purchased in dry form or premixed in gallon or 5-gallon buckets. Water down the plaster with just a bit of water and mix thoroughly. Use a hand drill with an attached mixer to create creamy, soft joint compound.

Techniques

• Roll the joint compound onto your well primed ceiling. Once a section has a solid, even cover, dip your drywall brush into the plaster and swirl. You may also stamp the brush or stipple it and then swirl. The way you create your ceiling's swirl is only limited to your imagination. When using the drywall trowel to swirl, use the edge of the blade to create semicircles or complete circles. The same technique may be created with a small putty knife. If you have never applied joint compound before, always practice your technique on a piece of cardboard or old drywall first.

Additional Guidlines

• Plastering a ceiling can create a mess, even when you don't intend to. Cover all flooring with plastic tarps. The tarps should be pulled tight until they are void of wrinkles. Use painter's tape and stretch and attach the plastic to flooring or nearby baseboards. Protect the walls as well. Stretch plastic tarps over the walls. Plaster often flies when rolling on or even swirling. Always wear old clothes and shoes when working with plaster. Don't forget to protect your hands with disposable gloves and your head with a scarf or hat.