Painting - Another painted paneling question

I have painted the paneling in my kitchen and hallway. But it was chair railed, so it was only 3 feet high. I filled the grooves with 3 applications of joint compound, but there are still a couple of "shadow" grooves, but only because I know where they are.

Now I want to tackle my great room (23 x 16 ft) and 8 feet high. I've decide not to fill the grooves (it would take me weeks). Since I'm not filling, I thought adding texture might help add character. Does using sand texture paint on paneling look good? Has anyone tried it. Or would I be better off with a regular semi-gloss. Sorry this got so long. Thanks in advance!

Hello dewgirl, since both of the options you give have been done and look good in the right place it comes down to opinion and heres mine. I like the look of painted paneling without the grooves filled or other treatment. Unless done very tastefully it could look like another room that someone attempted to disguise the fact that paneling was the starting point. I hope others come in with ideas that worked well for them.....Mike

Thanks for the response. I have decided to use the "KISS" method and keep it simple. I've chosen my colors, but now I have one more question. This room has vaulted ceilings with exposed beams (VERY dark stain). The ceiling is popcorn (oh, joy) and I will be painting it, too. Can I/ should I paint the beams? What is the process for doing this? Is it the same steps as the paneling? If so, how do I tape it off, without bringing down the popcorn? Sorry, that's more than one question. Any help will be appreciated.

Thanks,

dewgirl