How To Paint Ceramic & Plaster Wall Lights – Step by Step Guide

Ceramic and plaster wall lights are loved for their minimalist design and versatility. One of their greatest advantages is that they arrive unpainted, giving you the freedom to customise them in any colour to match your interior. Whether you want them to blend seamlessly with your walls or stand out as a bold feature, painting them is a straightforward DIY project with professional-looking results.

What You’ll Need

• Fine-grit sandpaper (optional, for smoothing)

• Soft cloth or duster

• Painter’s tape (to protect edges and wiring)

• Dust sheet or old towel

• Primer (suitable for plaster/ceramic surfaces)

• Paint (emulsion or spray paint, depending on your finish)

• Small roller or high-quality paintbrush

• Screwdriver (if removing the light from the wall)

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

1. Turn off the power to the light at the mains before doing anything.

2. If possible, remove the wall light from the wall to make painting easier. If not, cover surrounding areas with tape and a dust sheet.

3. Use a soft cloth to wipe away dust or debris. If the plaster feels rough, gently sand with fine-grit paper and wipe clean.

Step 2: Apply Primer

Plaster and ceramic surfaces are porous, so a primer ensures an even, long-lasting finish.

1. Apply a thin coat of multi-surface primer with a brush or roller.

2. Allow to dry fully (check the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times).

Step 3: Painting Your Light

You can choose between brush-on emulsion paint for a matte look or spray paint for a super-smooth finish.

• Brush or Roller Method: Apply thin, even coats of your chosen wall paint. Two coats are usually enough for full coverage.

• Spray Paint Method: Work in light layers, keeping the can about 20–25cm away to avoid drips.

Always allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

1. Once painted and dry, carefully remove any painter’s tape.

2. Re-attach the light fitting if you removed it earlier.

3. Turn the power back on and enjoy your freshly customised wall lights.

Design Tips

• Blend In: Paint your wall lights the same colour as the wall for a subtle, architectural look.

• Contrast: Use a darker or bolder shade to create a feature piece.

• Soft Neutrals: Warm whites, beiges and greys create a calming, luxury finish that works beautifully in Scandi and contemporary interiors.

✨ Pro Tip from The Lighting Vault: Painted plaster lights are ideal for future redecorating — if you change your wall colour, simply repaint the light to match.