What is the best way to neatly paint without getting it on ceiling?

Question

When we paint a room we usually paint the ceiling first then we go to paint the walls. I have been decorating and chose different colors for the walls but all the ceilings are white.

No matter what trimmer or brush we use we almost always end up slopping the edges and getting some color on the ceiling. then we have to wait for it to dry and go back and touch up.
Are we doing something wrong? What is the best way to get a clean edge ? We use painters tape for the trim work but I never heard of anyone using it for the entire ceiling.

Answer 1

You can eaisly use painters tape for the entire ceiling. Just be certain you remove it before the paint is dry.

Of course you can use a flat edge trimmer, but I prefer to work with a special paint brush. They sell them at any good paint store. They are smaller brushes and are made in the shape of a pencil tip. The bristles are round and then pointed at the very tip of the brush. Since I have discovered this brush, painting trim and any other space is now a piece of cake. You can buy the french version from France, or you can buy a zebra brush... Here is a link for the zebra brush:
http://www.amazon.com/Zibra-Grip-n-Glide-4-Inch-Triangle-PB125LZT/dp/B000O3OQBM/ref=pd_bxgy_hi_text_b/102-4536624-7872914

You can also use a stiletto brush. Here is a link for this:
http://www.styletto.com/cuttinginFR.html

Of the 2, I prefer the zebra. It works great.

If you still manage to get paint on the ceiling, if you are using latex water-based paint, you don't need to wait for the paint to dry to go over it. Simply wipe it off right away with a soft damp cloth. That works well.

Enjoy your new room!

Answer 2

Use wide painter's tape on ceiling, and go slowly when near it. Using a chisel brush instead of a roller will help with the precise positioning and the tape will keep the edge clean. You don't have to tape the entire ceiling, just the egdes near the wall... Take your time. Also depending on the type of paint being used, you might be able to wipe it off with a damp cloth before it sets. That information would be on the can label. Good luck.

Answer 3

I use a flat paint pad on the area of the wall near the ceiling. It works really well to make a nice line.

Answer 4

Yes, you use painter's tape everywhere you want a clean line. It's not just for trim.

Answer 5

use the blue masking tape.
and I'v always had more success with a brush.