What's the best way to paint an accoustical (popcorn) ceiling?

[Wendy B]

Does it work to use a plush roller and how do I clean the ceiling first ? thanks

[I was wondering]

Spraying works the best. If you have to roll it, use a thicker roller (3/4 nap) and keep a lot of paint on the roller. You may lose some of the texture, but it should be ok It's a tough surface to clean, you can use an air compressor to use air to spray off the dust and cob webs.

[Eagles Fly]

If you wash it, you'll wash away the popcorn. If there's a certain way of washing it, I wouldn't know.

Sounds right about using a plush roller. However, I've been wrong before.

There must be someone who knows the process.

[Paul]

It would be difficult to clean a popcorn ceiling, but as far as painting, yes, I too would use a plush roller.

[Jethro]

sprayer is good idea but will take too much time to mask off, paint with good nap roller using short strokes about 2 foot at a time.