How even should primer be?

Make sure you are using a 4-8' extension pole - extended to about 6' - that will help.

Some drywall primers don't hide very well - they will however seal the drywall when applied at the proper square ft coverage (about 300 sq).

One coat of primer properly applied is sufficient.

Where you want two coats is the finish coat.

I usually recommend Glidden products. The Home Depot carries Glidden Ceiling Paint. Some independant dealers carry Glidden E-Z Track Ceiling Paint - it goes on pink (easier to tell where you have been) - and dries white...

Mr. Paint

It sounds to me like you have a complete remodling going on,because alot of your posts has to do with new,trim and texturing and drywall.
If it is possible you could of sprayed this out with alot less hassel and even if you didnt know how to use one you would have a good handle on it after you did the primer it is alot faster easier and looks and lasts longer.
But like Mr Paint said the primer is fine if it isnt covering all the way it is to seal your drywall. http://pictureperfectpainting.20m.com/
is a site to my home page,

Yes, we are completely renovating our basement, and making cosmetic fixes on the rest of the house. We gutted the daylight basement last year and are slowly building it back up. Saving a ton, but taking forever. The rest of the house gets new flooring, windows, doors, yard, deck, just finished the fireplace and already painted the rest of the interior. It's a labor of love. Our first home. Thanks for the info on the primer. Rather than go with a third coat on the ceiling, I think I'll save energy for the walls next weekend.