Decorative Doorway Framing

Decorative doorway framing enhances the decor and character of a room.

Ideally, interior doorway trim should match or complement the other décor and molding in the room to instill continuity. Traditional, country, arts and crafts, Victorian and modern are among the most popular styles in interior design. Often, wood molding is used when decorating a doorway. Painting and accessories are an alternative embellishment to traditional doorway molding.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure or ruler
• Pencil
• Electric miter saw or hand saw and miter box
• Sandpaper
• Paint or stain
• Paintbrushes
• Finishing nails
• Hammer
• Joint compound

Instructions

Decorative Doorway Framing

1. Measure around the three sides of doorway(s), using the tape measure or ruler.

2. Add all the dimensions to calculate the linear footage needed.

3. Measure carefully and mark with pencil the various lengths needed on the molding.

4. Add 1/16 inch to measurements to account for saw blade width.

5. Cut the ends at a 45-degree angle, using a miter saw or miter box.

6. Sand the rough-cut angled ends of each piece.

7. Paint or sand the molding pieces.

8. Nail the pieces around the doorway, using a hammer

9. Fill nail holes with joint compound. Smooth with sandpaper and paint when dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Use joint compound to fill in any gaps. Smooth the compound out and touch up with paint.

• Add rosettes at the top corners of molding or plinth blocks at the base to break up the square, straight lines of the doorway framing.

• If painting or staining, use gloves and work in a ventilated area.

References

• Home Improvements Depot: How to Install Doorway Trim