I always try to roll the larger pattern in the same direction as the dominant light-source windows in rooms that get sun; in that way the ridges in the paint (if any) are less noticeable because they don't cast shadows when the light rakes them.
Other than that, I'd rather use flat wall paint than "ceiling flat" because the latter is so porous and thirsty in subsequent coats. A second coat on flat wall paint is a normal task, on ceiling paint it's an awful chore. IMHO.

Casey

Roll fisrt coat, side to side( shortest distance)
roll second coat (longest distance)

both quickley

The best chance to not get flashing is to not apply two coats. One coat over primer is best. Keep a wet edge at all times and apply the paint heavily enough so that you are not having dry edges.

....the SECOND your roller starts to empty-out, STOP.
LIGHTLY back-roll into what you've done to distribute the newly laid-down paint, and re-load.

I like the Wooster 1/2" Super-Fab cover a lot for ceilings...even for popcorn!

Link below has a pic.

Faron

Here is a link that might be useful: Link for pic only!!!

Thank you all so much! One more bedroom ceiling left to prime before painting. Because I'm tired, and running out of time, I'd really like to do one coat and will try the tips posted above.

Thanks again!

Well, it went pretty well today - I got the three bedroom ceilings done. Looked like everything covered well, but we'll see tomorrow when everything dries. The BM ultraflat ceiling paint seemed pretty easy to work with.

Halfway through the second room my extension pole broke and it kept collapsing in on itself. I ended up doing a lot from a ladder. :( My feet are so sore! (Shoulder and neck will be sore tomorrow, I'm sure.)

Tomorrow at lunch I'll cut in the hall ceiling. It's a small t-shaped hallway but it has attic access, an air return, & a ceiling fixture so a lot to cut in.