When Dean and I toured model homes before buying our house, we fell in love with the timeless elegance of coffered ceilings. The details added so much character to those spaces! So when we moved into our current house and saw the tray ceiling in the dining room, it seemed to be begging for the same treatment. After a lot of planning (and some trial and error), we created a gorgeous coffered ceiling ourselves—for less than $500!
If you’re planning to tackle your own ceiling upgrade, you might also enjoy my guides for How to DIY Shiplap or How to DIY Board and Batten, which feature similar step-by-step instructions to transform your home.
DIY Coffered Ceiling Tutorial
Transforming our tray ceiling into a coffered masterpiece was a medium-skill-level project. With the right tools, materials, and this tutorial, you can do it too!
Supplies
Quantities may vary based on the size of your room.
- Paper and pencil
- 2″ and 1 1/2″ nails for the brad nailer
- 2 1/2″ flat head screws
- Alex Plus paintable caulking
- 3M Patch Plus Primer
- 1″ x 16″ x 8′ pine shelving
- 1″ x 4″ x 8′ pine
- 1″ x 6″ x 8′ pine
- 1″ x 3 1/2″ primed MDF
- 150′ x 5 1/4″ MDF baseboard
- 450′ x 1 1/4″ primed pine door stop (or similar for crown molding replacement)
- White paint, brush, and roller
Tools
Assuming you already own these tools, they are not included in the project cost.
- Sliding compound miter saw
- Brad nailer
- Level
- Stud finder
- Drill
- Caulking gun
- Tape measure
- Square
Instructions
Step 1: Build the Base
- Use a stud finder to locate ceiling joists and mark them with a pencil. These will secure your brackets later.
- Sketch your desired coffered ceiling layout on paper. I opted for a basic grid pattern but modify as needed for your space.
- Measure your ceiling and draw it to scale. Adjust your grid for features like tray ceilings.
- Draw the grid layout on your ceiling using a pencil and level.
Large Cross-Support Brackets
- Construct large cross-support brackets (15 1/4″ x 15 1/4″ x 4 9/16″):
- Cut 1″ x 16″ pine into two pieces, 3 7/8″ x 15 1/4″, and four pieces, 3 7/8″ x 5 7/8″.
- Cut 1″ x 3 1/2″ pine into one piece, 15 1/4″, and two pieces, 5 7/8″.
- Assemble with a Brad nailer and reinforce with twenty 2 1/2″ flat head screws.
- Repeat step 5 to create as many large brackets as needed (Dean made four).
Small Support Brackets
- Construct small support brackets (6″ x 6″):
- Cut 1″ x 16″ pine into two pieces, 3 7/8″ x 6″.
- Cut 1″ x 3 1/2″ pine into one piece, 6″ long.
- Assemble with a Brad nailer and reinforce with four 2 1/2″ flat head screws.
- Repeat step 7 for the remaining sections (we needed twenty).
Install the Brackets
- Tack the brackets onto the ceiling along your grid layout using 2″ nails. Use a level to keep everything straight.
- Secure each bracket into previously marked ceiling joists with 2 1/2″ flat head screws.
Step 2: Create the Grid
- Attach 1″ x 3 1/2″ MDF to the bottom of the brackets to form the grid structure. Align edges flush with the brackets.
- Measure, cut, and install baseboards for each grid section, ensuring the boards are upside-down. Miter corners for clean joints and leave a 1/8″ gap at the top for visual interest.
Step 3: Trim It Out
We didn’t use any crown moulding on our coffered ceiling. This was actually due to both budget and to the spacing of the existing pot lights (which we freshened up with newer bulbs that are flush with the ceiling instead of the old school inset look).
- Add door stop trim as spacers along the top edge of the baseboards, tight to the ceiling.
- Cut and install additional layers of door stop trim below and above the spacers to create a layered look
Step 4: Finish and Paint
- Fill all nail holes with 3M Patch Plus Primer. Sand smooth and wipe off dust.
- Caulk all gaps and joints with Alex Plus caulking for a seamless finish.
- Paint the ceiling and trim using a roller and brush for a polished look.
What is a Coffered Ceiling?
A coffered ceiling is a series of recessed panels, typically in a grid or geometric pattern, framed by beams or trim. It adds depth, dimension, and architectural interest to a room, often found in dining rooms, offices, or living spaces.
Benefits of a DIY Coffered Ceiling
- Cost Savings: Professional installations can cost thousands, but this project is achievable for under $500.
- Customizable: Adapt the design to suit your room and style preferences.
- Impactful: A coffered ceiling elevates any space, adding sophistication and charm.
FAQs
It took us about a weekend to complete, including planning, building, and finishing.
Absolutely! MDF is budget-friendly, but solid wood or other materials can work if they fit your budget and style.
Use a level to align brackets and compensate with shims where necessary.
No, we worked around pot lights by adjusting trim placement.
Occasionally dust the trim and repaint as needed to keep it looking fresh.
More Character-Adding DIY Projects
- DIY Board and Batten Tutorial
- How to DIY a Shiplap Wall the Cheap and Easy Way!
- How to DIY a Professional Looking Coffered Ceiling for Less than $500!
- How to Install Panel Moulding: Adding Character to Your Home
- How to Install Beadboard Paneling: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide
- How to Install a Cedar Plank Ceiling: Step-by-Step DIY Tutorial
- Shiplap and Barn Beam Fireplace Mantel Makeover
DIY Coffered Ceiling Tutorial
DIY a stunning coffered ceiling for under $500! Step-by-step instructions, tools, tips, and FAQs for a polished, professional look.
Materials
- Paper and pencil
- Nails (2″ and 1 1/2″ for Brad nailer)
- Screws (2 1/2″ flat head)
- Caulking (Alex Plus)
- 3M Patch Plus Primer
- Wood (pine and MDF in specified sizes)
- Baseboard trim
- Door stop trim
- White paint
Tools
- Sliding compound miter saw
- Brad nailer
- Level
- Stud finder
- Drill
- Caulking gun
- Tape measure
- Square
Instructions
- Mark Joists: Use a stud finder and mark joists on the ceiling.
- Plan Layout: Sketch your desired coffered ceiling pattern and measure your space.
- Draw Grid: Transfer the grid pattern to the ceiling with a pencil and level.
- Build Brackets: Assemble large and small support brackets with pine and MDF. Secure with screws.
- Install Brackets: Tack brackets in place on the ceiling, ensuring alignment with the joists. Secure with screws.
- Attach MDF: Add MDF to the bottom of brackets to create the grid structure.
- Add Baseboards: Fit and attach baseboards upside-down in each grid section.
- Install Trim: Add layers of door stop trim for a polished, crown-molding-free look.
- Caulk and Fill: Fill nail holes and gaps with caulking and primer.
- Paint: Paint the ceiling and trim with a roller and brush for a seamless finish.
Notes
Adjust measurements to fit your room size.
Ensure brackets are level for a professional result.
Use quality caulking for smooth joints.
Installing a DIY coffered ceiling is an advanced but rewarding project that adds elegance and character to your home. By following this guide, you can transform your ceiling into a stunning feature for less than $500. Ready to try it yourself? I’d love to hear about your plans in the comments!
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This looks incredible! I love how you got the look without putting full support beams across the ceiling.
Thanks, Jackie. We tried to make it as easy as possible. 🙂
It’s absolutely ahhhhhmazing Shannon! It really brings so much character to your dining space!
Thank you sweet friend!
Shannon, this is fabulous! I think I will be doing this in the new house!
Good idea – it will look SO good!
Hi Shannon – This is the best DIY I have seen in a long time!!! WOWO!!!! You did a fabulous job….the room looks completely different…a real classic now.
Thank you, Diane. What a lovely compliment!
LOVE IT!!!! Thanks for the instructions!
How tall are your ceilings? I wonder if mine are too short and it will make it look shorter.
They are 8 foot ceilings. 🙂
Great, thank you! And mine are, as well! 😉
I love a coffered ceiling! I wanted to put one in our game room that we recently remodeled but it wasn’t in the budget. The way you did definitely changes the game. Looks amazing! Great job!
Yes – this was definitely done on a budget. You can do it!
Wow! These look so great!
Thanks, Danielle!
Well done! We have a very simple coffered ceiling in our dining room which is how I got a flavor for it – I may be referencing your tutorial very soon! What you’ve done is stunning!!
Thank you!
It looks sooooo amazing! I love it!!! I have a question – in our home we have California ceilings….. every where. And seriously, I am so over them. I think it’s the drywaller’s answer to quick and easy hiding of flaws….. Have you ever heard of how to get rid of them?
Thanks Shannon – as always you rock!
Yeah, lots of people have those and very likely because they do hide drywalling flaws. Some people scrape them off, some cover them with a thin board or drywall or beadboard, depending on the room. We’ve never actually removed any – it was always way down the list at our other houses. We sort of lucked out and this house doesn’t have any at all because it’s circa 1999. Good luck, dear Faye!
Wow! Talk about awesome! I love this room! Thank you for sharing such a tutorial broken down into detailed steps that are understandable. I haven’t seen an explanation like this since the days of DIY TV. You knocked it out of the park!
I’m so glad – it was hard to actually coordinate with Dean and get it written!
Looks amazing. I’ve always loved those coffered ceilings.
I had never actually paid them much attention until we were looking at model homes and then this house with the tray ceiling! Now I’m so glad I noticed them.
Wow! It looks amazing!
Thank you!
Wow, beautiful and you make it look so easy!! Pinned!
Lol. Well Dean makes it look easy! Truthfully it was a fabulous project, not super simple, but easy enough to make it well worth the results.
Wow. Wow. Wow. This project is on my bucket list- absolutely beautiful!
Thank you so much, Jeanne.
WOW I love this!!!!! I’m a sucker for any type of trim work / wall treatment / custom looking DIYs. This looks amazing! I can’t believe how professional it looks. This is prob going to go on my home DIY wishlist now. 🙂
>> Christene
Keys to Inspiration
Thanks, Christene. It’s one of my favorite projects!
This turned out beautifully! I really love the added character. We are on our second new home build and it’s so easy to think “We can’t add that character…” Thank you for the inspiration!
Oh you so can!!! Bigger baseboards, panel mouldings, coffered ceilings, nicer trim. 🙂
Wow i love this! I followed the link from Emily Henderson’s page. We just purchased a home built in 1902 but they completely removed all the character and charm during a 2000’s remodel. This totally gives me some inspiration to it add back in!
Yay! Have fun!
Looks great!! would love to build it. I dont see how you attached the brackets to the ceiling studs. You said you drilled screw holes and screwed it in but i dont any of them in the pictures you attached.
Also, how did you ensure the coffered beams aligned with the ceiling studs. for the room I am thinking of doing, it does not align well.
Thanks
Sam
Hi Sam! The wood brackets that we built are attached to the ceiling inside the brackets, out of sight. Sort of in the middle of the brackets. Our grid was made to work with where the ‘ceiling studs’ or joists are. You will need to adjust your grid to accommodate the location of your ceiling’s framing. The coffered ceiling must be attached to joists/studs and will not work otherwise.
Hi Shannon
Thanks for all the information you posted here, I was able to build mine for under $400 following your technique. Mine doesn’t have that many coffers hence was able to build it a bit cheaper.
Check it out here
https://flic.kr/p/M1UJGg
I have yet to put the finishing touches on it (caulk and paint)
Cheers
Sam
Oh my goodness, Sam! That turned out so lovely! I’m so glad you could build what you wanted on a budget, with our inspiration. 🙂 Love it!
I didn’t see where the 1x6x8’ pine board was used. Did I miss it?
I believe that’s what we used to build the mini x frames with.
Amazing Shannon! I wanted to do it in my family room which is 16 ft high, what kind of ladders or any structures are best that I can stand on, with spacious room to turn around?
Hi, Chandra. Wow, that’s some ceiling height! I think you can rent scaffolding for such a height. But please be very careful!
This looks absolutely stunning! I’m planning to do mine but getting confused on one step. How did you handle to have perfect design and they all fall on the joist too? My perfect design doesn’t fall well on the joists. If I follow joists measurement then one of my rows doesn’t come out well. Any insight please?
Hi Derek. I’ve asked Dean – my hubby and construction guy! – to give this a thought for you. I’ll let you know as soon as he can get me an answer!
Hi again, Derek! So, without seeing your space, our recommendation would be to make the cross support brackets longer in (at least) one direction to so that both ends can be screwed into the joists. I hope that makes sense? If not, shoot us an email and we can try to help further. [email protected]
This is helpful. Thank you!
Great job! I’m curious, how tall are your ceilings?
Thanks, Hannah! Our ceilings are 8 foot.
Is there a build plan for the X section, T sections and end mid supports?
Hello Sam,
There are written instructions and photos in the tutorial above.
Looks great! Where did you get those lights? Do you know make and model of them?
Hello Greg,
Thank you! The lighting was from Wayfair and Build.com. But you can also find them here: https://amzn.to/2MMyMNu and here: https://amzn.to/31pBfS0 (affiliate links).
Do you have video to show how to complete this? Also, the last part is confusing? The inner molding, how is that done? I don’t really understand the photos. Btw: It looks beautiful.
Unfortunately, we do not have a video. The inner molding is layered door stop. I’m not sure how to describe it more than already described and shown in the post? Essentially it’s doorstop right up at the ceiling to create a base, then one below that, and then another right up at the ceiling on top of the base one. This creates the layered crown molding look for less.
Hi Shannon,
We plan on doing this in my house. Just a question, how big is your room?
Good question…I’m not sure without measuring. Why would you like to know?
The question really should be the dimensions of the ceiling to be able to compare the amount of material needed. We bought the material for the brackets last night…so excited!!!
Great post! I’ve been using this page as a reference for a mini tray/coffered ceiling design for my small entryway. I saw that you have 8′ ceilings and the baseboards you chose were the perfect sized thickness to match your space! It looks gigantic in there!
Thank you! 🙂 I hope your ceiling turns out well!
This is an awesome tutorial. Except I feel like I need an extra 2 pictures on steps 15 and 16 to understand exactly what you did and what surfaces you were nailing the trim pieces into 😬. Thanks for taking the time to show how you did this.
Sorry about that! Sometimes it’s hard to get photos that capture a step or two.
This is gorgeous! We have a large step down bonus room/ den with a massive fireplace. Because it’s a step down it has higher ceilings than the rest of the house. I’ve been wanting to do this in that room for so long! Now to get my husband on board with it. I think it’s so worth the cost and the work.
It is definitely one of the most-noticed and commented on details we’ve added to our home.