What Do I Texture First: Walls or Ceiling?

Ceilings

• In nearly all paint and plaster projects, the ceiling is plastered first. If you have any drips that fall onto the ceiling, these areas can be sanded down and fixed prior to plastering the walls. Adding texture to the ceiling is difficult; take frequent breaks to avoid neck pain. Always cover the entire flooring area with plastic tarps because plaster drips are guaranteed.

Walls

• When preparing to plaster walls, use a blade or putty knife to remove thick drips of plaster from the previous ceiling work. Though you are adding texture to this surface as well, you will notice the plaster drips when the finish is complete. After chipping off the plaster drips, sand the wall with sandpaper to create a smooth finish.

Paint

• Similar to the plaster project, painting the texture should begin with the ceiling area. For both areas use a thick roller created for rough textures. The long nap of the roller can apply paint into all the crevices of the texture. Still, some areas may be difficult to paint. Dab paint into any areas not catching paint with an old paintbrush. Don't use a new paintbrush because the texture will ruin the brush's fine bristles.

Safety

• When working with plaster, wear gloves. Plaster dries quickly and can irritate your skin. It can also become embedded underneath your nails and become difficult to remove. When using a drywall trowel, be very cautious of the sharp edges. After scrapping the wall repeatedly, the trowel forms a very sharp edge, which can quickly slice skin. Always wash your plaster tools frequently to avoid dry plaster buildup. Keep a 5-gallon bucket of water handy and a wash rag for cleaning purposes.