If you re insulating from scratch put the right vapor barrier in the right place.
Attic insulation vapor barrier wrong way.
However all attics vented or unvented and in all climates should have an air barrier such as an airtight drywall ceiling.
If you are reluctant to use staples secure the barrier with duct tape instead.
Instead of pulling away the insulation sheets to slip in the barriers apply at least one thick coat maybe two to the insulation.
In hot dry climates your attic can be vented though like in hot humid climates you should not install any vapor retarder or barrier.
The application can vary so read all instructions on your specific brand of paint.
Gradually roll the barrier out and use your chosen method to secure it at regular intervals.
As you work sweep your hand across the surface to push out air and keep the barrier flat.
For many building science questions the answer is it depends for this one the answer is clear.
In many of those cases vapor barrier paint woks better than installing sheeting.
Adding a second vapor barrier could cause condensation to become trapped in the insulation between the two vapor barriers.
If you install fiberglass batt insulation with a kraft paper vapor retarder in a home which way do you face the vapor retarder.
To the inside of the home or the outside of the home.