Selective use of paint can fool the eye. Sometimes having a low ceiling can make a room feel claustrophobic. By creating an optical illusion, a room can be made to look and feel more spacious.
For example, using vertical stripes draws the eye up and down, thus fooling us into believing the ceiling is higher than it is. Using soft contrasting colors and making the stripes broad or thin will affect the proportions of the room. Before painting, carefully use masking tape to create a straight edge for your stripes. Always mask off windows and door edges, especially if you have an unsteady hand.