Ah, the dreaded popcorn ceiling—once a staple, now a source of decor distress for many. But fear not! Here are some creative and stylish ways to cover up that bumpy texture and bring your ceilings back to life.

1. Embrace the Charm of Beadboard

Beadboard ceilings create a timeless, cottage-like atmosphere.
Beadboard ceilings create a timeless, cottage-like atmosphere.

Beadboard is a classic choice that adds a touch of traditional charm. I’ve used it in my own home to create a cozy, cottage feel, and it never fails to impress. Plus, it’s relatively easy to install directly over the popcorn texture.

A few suggestions:

  • Beadboard Paneling: Classic beadboard paneling that brings a traditional, cozy cottage feel to any room. It’s designed to be easy to install over textured surfaces like popcorn ceilings.
  • Adhesive Caulk: A reliable adhesive caulk to secure beadboard panels to the ceiling, ensuring a firm hold and seamless finish.
  • Ceiling Trim Moulding: Decorative trim moulding that adds a polished edge around the beadboard, enhancing the overall aesthetic and providing a finished look.

2. Go Rustic with Wood Planks

Wood planks add rustic warmth and hide imperfections beautifully.
Wood planks add rustic warmth and hide imperfections beautifully.

Wood planks bring warmth and a rustic touch to any room. I love how they instantly make a space feel inviting and charming. Whether stained or painted, they’re a wonderful way to hide that popcorn texture.

Possibly helpful picks:

  • Reclaimed Wood Planks: These reclaimed wood planks offer a rustic and authentic look, perfect for covering popcorn ceilings and adding warmth to any room.
  • Wood Stain Kit: Enhance the natural beauty of wood planks with this versatile stain kit. Achieve various finishes to match your design aesthetic.
  • Ceiling Plank Adhesive: This strong adhesive ensures a secure installation of wood planks on ceilings, providing lasting durability and ease of use.

3. Add Elegance with Tin Tiles

Tin tiles offer intricate designs and a touch of elegance.
Tin tiles offer intricate designs and a touch of elegance.

Tin tiles are for those who want a bit of flair and elegance. I’ve seen them transform spaces with their intricate designs and shiny finishes, turning ceilings into a true focal point. They’re a bit of an investment but worth every penny for the wow factor.

Consider these options:

  • Decorative Tin Ceiling Tiles: These tiles can transform any space with their intricate designs and reflective finishes, making your ceiling a stunning focal point.
  • Adhesive for Ceiling Tiles: A reliable adhesive that ensures your tin tiles stay securely in place, providing a lasting and elegant finish.
  • Ceiling Tile Installation Kit: This kit includes tools and accessories for easy and efficient installation of tin tiles, making your DIY project a breeze.

4. Try a Skim Coat for Smoothness

A smooth, seamless ceiling can be achieved with a simple skim coat.
A smooth, seamless ceiling can be achieved with a simple skim coat.

A skim coat is a simple way to achieve a smooth ceiling without removing the popcorn layer. It’s a bit of a labor of love, but I’ve found it to be a satisfying DIY project with a sleek finish as the reward.

You might give these a try:

  • Drywall Joint Compound: This compound is essential for creating a smooth surface over popcorn ceilings. It offers easy application and sandability.
  • Ceiling Skimming Blade: A wide skimming blade helps achieve a uniform finish when applying the joint compound to the ceiling.
  • Sanding Pole with Sanding Pads: This tool helps in sanding the skim coat smoothly, ensuring a professional-looking finish.

5. Create a Faux Coffered Look

Faux coffered ceilings add architectural interest and sophistication.
Faux coffered ceilings add architectural interest and sophistication.

Using plywood and trim, you can create a faux coffered ceiling that’s both stylish and cost-effective. This was a favorite in one of my recent projects, adding depth and interest to what was once a plain ceiling.

May just do the trick:

  • Plywood Sheets: Versatile plywood sheets that serve as the foundational material for creating a faux coffered ceiling, offering both durability and strength.
  • Decorative Ceiling Trim Molding: Beautifully designed trim molding perfect for adding an elegant touch to a faux coffered ceiling, enhancing the room’s aesthetic.
  • Wood Ceiling Beam Covers: Lightweight beam covers that mimic the appearance of real wood beams, providing depth and a classic aesthetic to your ceiling design.

6. Paint for a Quick Refresh

A fresh coat of paint can work wonders on lightly textured ceilings.
A fresh coat of paint can work wonders on lightly textured ceilings.

Sometimes, a fresh coat of paint is all you need to revitalize a popcorn ceiling. I opted for a soft, calming color in my bedroom, and it made all the difference. Just ensure it’s a subtle texture to see the best results.

These products might help:

  • Interior Ceiling Paint: This paint is ideal for giving your popcorn ceiling a fresh and modern look. It provides excellent coverage and a smooth finish.
  • Paint Roller Kit: A complete paint roller kit that includes everything you need to apply paint evenly to your ceiling.
  • Painter’s Tape: Use this high-quality painter’s tape to protect walls and outlines, ensuring clean and defined edges while painting.

7. Install a Grid-Plank System

Grid-plank systems provide a modern and efficient ceiling solution.
Grid-plank systems provide a modern and efficient ceiling solution.

A grid-plank system is perfect for DIY enthusiasts looking for an efficient solution. In one of my workshops, participants loved how easy it was to install, with plenty of stylish options available to suit any decor.

Products that could assist:

  • Decorative Ceiling Planks: These planks are designed for easy installation and provide a stylish finish to cover popcorn ceilings.
  • Ceiling Grid System: A versatile grid system that ensures planks are securely installed and aligned, enhancing the ceiling’s aesthetic.
  • Ceiling Plank Installation Kit: Complete installation kit with all necessary tools for mounting your ceiling planks efficiently.

8. Go Bold with Stenciled Patterns

Stenciled ceilings offer a unique and personal touch.
Stenciled ceilings offer a unique and personal touch.

For a touch of creativity, consider stenciling patterns onto your ceiling. I tried this in my studio, and it was a fun way to express personality while camouflaging the popcorn texture.

Give these a look:

  • Ceiling Stencil Kit: A set of reusable stencils for creating beautiful patterns on your ceiling, adding personality and flair to any room.
  • High-Quality Acrylic Paint Set: Acrylic paints suitable for stenciling, providing vibrant colors that adhere well to ceilings.
  • Stencil Brushes: Set of brushes designed specifically for stenciling, ensuring clean and precise application of paint.

9. Use Fabric for a Soft Look

A fabric-draped ceiling adds softness and luxury to any space.
A fabric-draped ceiling adds softness and luxury to any space.

Fabric can create a soft, draped look that feels luxurious and unique. I once helped a friend transform her bedroom ceiling this way, and it felt like a boutique hotel. It’s also a great acoustic solution if noise is a concern.

Useful items to consider:

  • Sheer Drapery Fabric: Elegant sheer fabric that can be draped across the ceiling to create a soft, luxurious atmosphere.
  • Decorative Curtain Rods: Stylish curtain rods for securing and displaying drapery fabric on the ceiling.
  • Fabric Hanging Clips: Clips designed to securely hang fabric from ceiling fixtures, easy to use for DIY projects.

10. Apply Wallpaper for Texture

Wallpaper on the ceiling can create unexpected texture and interest.
Wallpaper on the ceiling can create unexpected texture and interest.

Wallpaper isn’t just for walls! Applying it to your ceiling can add texture and pattern, effectively hiding the popcorn look. I love experimenting with bold prints that bring unexpected interest to the ceiling.

Possibly handy products:

  • Decorative Ceiling Wallpaper: Add visual interest and texture to your ceiling with decorative wallpaper. Choose bold prints for a dramatic effect.
  • Wallpaper Adhesive: Ensure a smooth and secure application of your wallpaper with high-quality adhesive, perfect for ceilings.
  • Wallpaper Installation Kit: This kit includes all the tools you need for a seamless wallpaper installation, including brushes and smoothing tools.

11. Opt for Ceiling Panels

Ceiling panels offer a sleek and modern solution for covering popcorn textures.
Ceiling panels offer a sleek and modern solution for covering popcorn textures.

Ceiling panels are versatile and come in a variety of styles to suit different aesthetics. In my apartment, I used them to create a modern, streamlined look without much hassle.

Check these products out:

  • Decorative Ceiling Panels: These panels offer a modern look and can cover up popcorn ceilings effortlessly, adding elegance to any room.
  • Ceiling Panel Installation Kit: This kit includes essential tools and materials needed for an easy DIY installation of ceiling panels.
  • LED Recessed Lighting: Enhance your ceiling panels with energy-efficient LED recessed lights, perfect for modern home aesthetics.

12. Install Faux Beams

Faux beams provide a rustic touch and add character to ceilings.
Faux beams provide a rustic touch and add character to ceilings.

Faux beams can add a rustic or industrial feel, depending on the style you choose. I’ve used them to create a striking contrast against a white ceiling, offering both style and function.

Check if these fit your needs:

  • Faux Wood Ceiling Beam: A lightweight, easy-to-install faux wood beam that adds rustic charm and aesthetic appeal to any room.
  • Beam Installation Hardware Kit: Essential hardware kit for securely installing faux beams on ceilings.
  • Wood Stain Kit: A versatile wood stain kit to customize the color of your faux beams to match your decor.

13. Add a Plaster Finish

A plaster finish offers a smooth and sophisticated ceiling look.
A plaster finish offers a smooth and sophisticated ceiling look.

A plaster finish can give your ceiling a smooth, sophisticated look. It’s a bit more labor-intensive, but the results are undeniably elegant. I once used it in a client’s hallway, and it transformed the space.

A few choices to try:

  • Plastering Trowel: A high-quality plastering trowel helps achieve a smooth finish on ceilings, making the plastering process easier and more efficient.
  • Plaster Mix: Ready-to-use plaster mix designed for creating a smooth and durable surface on your ceilings. Ideal for DIY projects.
  • Drop Cloths: Protect your floors and furniture from plaster spills with these durable and reusable drop cloths.

14. Incorporate Acoustic Tiles

Acoustic tiles improve sound quality and add a polished appearance.
Acoustic tiles improve sound quality and add a polished appearance.

Acoustic tiles are perfect if you’re looking to improve sound quality while covering popcorn ceilings. In my workshop, I demonstrated how they effectively reduce noise while adding a polished look.

A few relevant products:

  • Acoustic Ceiling Tiles: Enhance sound quality and add a sleek look to your space by using acoustic ceiling tiles. They’re ideal for covering popcorn ceilings effectively.
  • Acoustic Tile Adhesive: Ensure a secure installation of acoustic tiles with a reliable adhesive, specially designed for ceiling applications.
  • Ceiling Tile Installation Kit: This kit provides essential tools for a smooth installation of acoustic tiles, making the DIY process easier and more efficient.

15. Use a Drop Ceiling System

Drop ceiling systems offer a sleek and contemporary touch.
Drop ceiling systems offer a sleek and contemporary touch.

Drop ceilings aren’t just for basements anymore; they can add a sleek and modern touch to any room. I’ve seen them work wonders in an urban loft, giving it a clean, contemporary vibe.

Maybe worth checking out:

  • Drop Ceiling Tiles: These tiles are designed to fit into standard grid systems, providing a modern aesthetic to any room and covering popcorn ceilings effectively.
  • Ceiling Grid Kit: This kit includes all necessary tracks and supports for installing a drop ceiling system, allowing you to create a sleek ceiling design.
  • Drop Ceiling Installation Tool Set: A tool set designed to assist in the easy installation of drop ceilings, ensuring a professional finish and secure fit.

16. Apply Faux Brick Panels

Faux brick panels provide an industrial edge to any ceiling.
Faux brick panels provide an industrial edge to any ceiling.

Faux brick panels can give your ceiling a unique industrial edge. I helped a client achieve a loft-style look in their living room with this method, and it was a standout feature.

Some handy options:

  • Faux Brick Wall Panels: These panels provide an easy way to add industrial flair to your ceiling with a realistic brick appearance.
  • Heavy-Duty Construction Adhesive: A reliable adhesive to securely attach the faux brick panels to your ceiling.
  • Decorative Ceiling Beams: Enhance the industrial look with decorative beams that complement the faux brick panels.

17. Create a Tray Ceiling Effect

Tray ceilings add depth and architectural interest.
Tray ceilings add depth and architectural interest.

Tray ceilings add depth and interest, perfect for adding architectural detail. I added this feature to my dining room, and it elevated the entire space with a touch of luxury.

These products might be useful:

  • Ceiling Molding Kits: Enhance your ceiling with these molding kits that add an elegant touch to any room.
  • Recessed Lighting: Install recessed lights to emphasize the depth and style of your tray ceiling.
  • Decorative Ceiling Panels: Add visual interest with decorative panels that complement the tray ceiling look.

18. Incorporate LED Lighting Panels

LED lighting panels offer modern illumination and style.
LED lighting panels offer modern illumination and style.

LED lighting panels not only cover the popcorn texture but also provide modern illumination. I’ve seen them used in contemporary settings to great effect, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere.

Some ideas to consider:

  • LED Ceiling Light Panels: These LED panels are ideal for replacing traditional ceiling finishes and offer energy-efficient illumination for a modern look.
  • Dimmable LED Light Fixtures: Dimmable fixtures offer customizable lighting options, allowing you to easily adjust the ambiance of the room.
  • LED Panel Mounting Kit: This kit provides the necessary components to securely mount LED panels, ensuring a seamless and clean installation.

19. Opt for Metal Sheets

Metal sheets add a chic industrial vibe to ceilings.
Metal sheets add a chic industrial vibe to ceilings.

Metal sheets can give your ceiling a chic, industrial look. In a friend’s loft, they were used to stunning effect, adding a unique character that’s both modern and timeless.

Might be a good match:

  • Corrugated Metal Panels: These panels offer a sleek, industrial aesthetic perfect for ceilings, adding both style and texture to your space.
  • Metal Ceiling Track Lighting: Enhance your metal ceiling with adjustable track lighting, providing both functionality and a modern look.
  • Metal Sheet Clips: Securely attach metal sheets to your ceiling with these reliable clips, ensuring a stable and polished finish.

20. Install a Natural Reed Ceiling

Natural reed ceilings create an organic, earthy atmosphere.
Natural reed ceilings create an organic, earthy atmosphere.

A natural reed ceiling brings an organic, earthy feel to a room. I used it in a sunroom, and it blended beautifully with the outdoor scenery, creating a serene retreat.

Explore these options:

  • Natural Reed Fencing: This roll of natural reed fencing can be used to create an aesthetically pleasing ceiling finish. It’s easy to install and adds a rustic, natural touch to any room.
  • Reed Ceiling Panels: These ceiling panels made from natural reeds offer an earthy, organic aesthetic ideal for a serene room setting. They are simple to install and fit various ceiling sizes.
  • Ceiling Panel Adhesive: A strong adhesive suitable for securing natural reed panels to the ceiling. Provides a durable hold while being easy to apply.

21. Use Artistic Murals

Artistic murals turn ceilings into captivating canvases.
Artistic murals turn ceilings into captivating canvases.

Transform your ceiling into a canvas with artistic murals. I once collaborated with a local artist to create a celestial sky mural in a child’s bedroom, turning it into a magical space.

You might like:

  • Glow in the Dark Ceiling Stars: These stars can add an enchanting glow to your ceiling, enhancing the celestial mural effect.
  • Acrylic Paint Set: High-quality paints for creating vibrant and durable murals, perfect for DIY ceiling projects.
  • Artist’s Brush Set: A variety of brush sizes to help you add detailed artwork to your ceiling mural.

22. Apply Textured Paint

Textured paint adds depth and covers ceiling imperfections beautifully.
Textured paint adds depth and covers ceiling imperfections beautifully.

Textured paint is an easy way to cover imperfections while adding visual interest. In my studio, I used a subtle sand texture that added depth without overwhelming the space.

A few things you might like:

  • Textured Wall Paint: Textured wall paint offers a great way to add depth and cover imperfections on popcorn ceilings.
  • Paint Roller with Texture Sleeve: A paint roller with a texture sleeve can help apply the textured paint evenly across your ceiling, achieving a professional finish.
  • Painter’s Tape: Painter’s tape ensures clean edges and protects walls or fixtures during the painting process.
Avatar photo
Author