What Do You Need to Swirl a Ceiling?

Sanding Pole

• The first step in prepping a ceiling for a swirl pattern is sanding; the rough surface allows the thin base layer of joint compound to adhere to the drywall. A sanding pole is similar to a sanding block, but it has a long handle for ceiling work. Attach sandpaper to the flat sanding surface and rub it against the ceiling by moving the pole. For hard-to-reach corners and edges, sand by hand with a sanding sponge.

Paint Roller

• Joint compound is applied to the ceiling with a medium-nap paint roller on the end of a pole. The roller is crucial, because you need to apply the swirls in the coat of joint compound before it is set. Other applicators will not allow you to coat the ceiling fast enough to make this possible. It is even better if you have two extended paint rollers and two people to apply each section of the thin base coat.

Wallpaper Brush

• A wide, flat wallpaper brush is ideal for for texturing ceilings. To make a swirl, hold the brush vertically with the tips if the brush touching the surface. Twist the brush so that the right end of the brush stays fixed, while the left end moves in a half-circle. Repeat the motion, overlapping slightly, to create a row of swirls.

Joint Compound

• The joint compound, or "mud," is the material used to create the swirls over the drywall. It is similar to plaster, with a texture like thick batter. It is important that the joint compound is properly mixed with water before using it. Mix it with a paddle attachment on electric drill, or with a manual tool called a stomper. If you mix more joint compound than you need for a project, add a layer of water on top; you can re-mix and use it within two weeks.