With the right tools and a little preparation, a ceiling can be painted without difficulty.
Step 4: Spackle the sanded area. Open a can of spackle and stir to soften the spackle. Load the spackle onto a hawk and apply to the damaged area with a 5-inch plaster knife. When the spackle is dry, lightly sand the the surface with a fine sandpaper, working in a circular motion. Use a sanding block or a similar flat surface. Apply a second coat and repeat, if necessary. Apply spackle with a 5-inch plaster knife.
Wear non-slip shoes when using a ladder, and make sure the ladder is resting on a flat, non-slip surface. Wear goggles and protective clothing when painting overhead.