How to Paint Interior Trim

The best techinques to paint the trim of your interior.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Utility knife
• Clean rags
• Sanding paper
• Dust mask
• Eye protection
• Drop cloth or Canvas
• 1½ inch angled sash brush
• 2 inch square edge brush
• Detailing brush

1. Begin by cleaning the trim of all dust and dirt from the surface to be painted.

2. 
   Press the tape into the corner between the wall and trim.

   Then place 1” or 2” masking tape along the edge of the surface which will not be painted. Press the tape into the corner between the wall and trim to avoid any paint leaking. Recently, companies have developed pieces of masking tape of specific sizes for tough areas, such as the inside of corners and door hinges.

3. Be sure to drop a large cloth or canvas beneath the working area to protect the floor and furniture.

4. 
   When painting start at the top on the inside and work outward.

   After preparing the area, painting begins with a layer of primer over the trim. Primer is a coating which ensures better adhesion of paint, increases durability, and provides additional protection against mold. When painting start at the top on the inside with a moderate load of paint on a beveled trim brush. Then work outward, leaving the outside edge for last. After the primer has dried it is best to place the first coating of paint before 72 hours to avoid deposits of dust on the surface. The applying of paint uses the same technique as the primer. Ask your local paint sales representative for the correct type of paint for your project.

5. After all painting is complete remove the tape by pulling at a 45 degree angle away from the corner of trim and wall at a slow pace. If any paint has leaked behind the masking tape, use a small detailing brush for these touchups.