Cover your work area with drop cloths and allow enough space so that you can paint two or three panels at a time. Also set aside space for the tiles to dry.

Remove the tiles and stack them where you are going paint them. If your ceiling has interlocking tiles, one of the corner pieces should be able to be removed and from there you can slide each tile free. Remember to mark each tile so that you can put them back in the same order.

Place two or three tiles in your work area and dust each one with a dry cloth to remove any dirt and debris.

Mix the paint and pour it into the paint tray. Roll the pain roller into the tray. Try and get an even coverage across the roller. Now apply the paint to the tiles you have prepared. Rolling two or three times across the panel should give you plenty of coverage.

Move the painted tiles to an area where they can dry. Latex paint should completely dry in three or four hours, but add another two hours if you are working in a humid environment. When they are dry, bring them back to the work area and apply a second, lighter coat.

Begin painting the grid that holds the tiles in place while the tiles are drying. Apply low-adhesive tape to the tops of the walls. Place drop cloths on the floor; don't use plastic on the floor because this can adhere to your shoe and move over time. If there is any furniture in the room, you should move it out or cover it with plastic.

Use your small paintbrush to paint the metal grid. It may need multiple coats to cover the grid completely.

Replace the painted tiles in the same order you removed them once they have dried.