What to Know Before Painting Trim

I’ve read that wood trim is like the jewelry of a room. So do we make it sparkle or not? 

I have mixed feelings about this. It’s excruciating to see a historic home’s molding and woodwork get painted over. Nevertheless, there are circumstances where this approach can enhance a design while maintaining the integrity of the space. Take staircase arm rails and wainscoting: painting them the same color as the walls produces a seamless, polished look. Likewise, painting the crown molding in a room the same color as the walls can seem to lift the ceilings, creating more space. In addition, painting the crown molding a complementary color to wallpaper generates interest, as shown below. I am a big fan of painting doors and door trim as well. In newly built homes, it makes sense to paint baseboards and window trim; they usually have a white factory finish anyway.

If you do decide to paint any trim, there are several steps to follow to ensure a smooth, enduring finish:

1. Sand the trim

2. Vacuum up any dust

3. Use painter’s tape 

4. Prime the trim

5. Paint the trim with 2 coats

One last tip: paint trim one sheen level above the wall paint, in the direction of a glossier finish. 

What do you think? Have you had any of your trim painted?