Plaster or imitation plasterwork cornices and ceiling roses can be painted in a plain colour, to match or contrast with the ceiling and walls. Alternatively, you can pick out details in a second colour.

Make sure that the surface is clean and smooth before you start. Fill any small cracks in plaster with interior filler, wait for it to dry and then rub down with fine abrasive paper. If a part of the cornice is broken away, repair it before you do the painting.

Some cornices are more fragile than others, so to avoid damage be very careful when sanding back the old paint in preparation for repainting.

1. Use a 1in (25mm) brush with no straggly bristles to paint a cornice. Apply the paint in thin coats, so that it does not form drips or runs. Let the paint dry between coats.

2. If you are using two colours, either paint the raised parts first or paint the whole area and fill in the recesses when dry with an artist's sable brush.

3. To keep your hand steady, lean on a mahl stick (a sign writer's rest). To make one, pad the end of a piece of dowel with sponge or cotton wool wrapped in a lint free rag.