How to Paint Trim and Molding for a Polished, Professional Look

Let’s be honest: painting trim and molding isn’t exactly the glamorous part of a room makeover. But here’s the thing—those crisp, clean lines around your doors, windows, and baseboards? They’re what take your space from “pretty good” to “wow, did you hire someone for this?”

If you're ready to give your trim the love it deserves, this guide is for you. You don’t need to be a pro painter to get professional-looking results—you just need a little prep, the right tools, and some patience (okay, maybe a podcast to keep you company too).

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you even pop open that paint can, make sure you have everything you need:

Painter’s tape (the good kind!)
Drop cloths or old sheets
Fine-grit sandpaper or sanding block
Tack cloth or a damp rag
Quality angled brush (2-inch is your best friend)
Primer (especially for bare wood or stained trim)
Trim paint (semi-gloss or high-gloss works best)
Small putty knife and wood filler (for fixing dings)

Trust me, having all this ready ahead of time saves you from mid-project trips to the hardware store.

Step 2: Prep Like a Pro

Good painting is 90% prep and 10% actual painting. Here’s what to do:

Clean the trim. Dust, grease, and mystery smudges are paint’s worst enemy. Give everything a quick wipe-down.
Fill any dents or holes. Use wood filler to smooth out imperfections, then sand once it’s dry.
Lightly sand the surface. This helps the paint stick better and creates a smoother finish.
Wipe it down again. Use a tack cloth or damp rag to get rid of sanding dust.
Tape off the walls and floors. This keeps your lines sharp and your walls clean.

Bonus tip: If you're painting baseboards, consider removing them before painting—especially if your flooring is new or you're switching colors. Not essential, but helpful!

Step 3: Prime Time

If your trim is stained wood, dark-colored, or hasn’t been painted before, don’t skip the primer. It helps the paint stick and keeps stains from bleeding through.

Apply a thin coat with your angled brush, let it dry fully, and give it a light sanding afterward for a smooth base.

Step 4: Let’s Paint!

Now the fun part (yes, painting can be fun). Here’s how to do it:

Dip your brush about 1/3 of the way into the paint—no need to overload it.
Start in the middle of the trim, then brush toward the edges. This gives you more control and avoids drips.
Use long, even strokes. Go with the grain if it’s wood.
Feather out your strokes. That means lightly brushing over the edge of where you just painted so it blends seamlessly.
Don’t overwork it. Once the paint starts drying, leave it alone or you’ll get brush marks.

Let the first coat dry completely (check the can for timing), then lightly sand and wipe down before adding your second coat.

Step 5: The Finishing Touches

Once everything’s dry, carefully peel off the painter’s tape at a 45-degree angle. If any paint bled through, don’t panic—a tiny artist’s brush can fix that in no time.

Step back and admire your handiwork. Those smooth, glossy, clean lines? Total game-changer.

Pro Tips for That Extra-Polished Look

Use a paint conditioner (like Floetrol) if you're working with water-based paint. It helps the paint level out and reduces brush strokes.
Work in natural daylight if possible—it’s easier to spot drips and streaks.
Don’t rush the dry time. Letting each coat fully cure gives a smoother, more durable finish.

Painting trim and molding might seem like a small detail, but it makes a huge impact. Whether you’re refreshing a tired room or finishing a full reno, don’t skip this step. With a little patience and a steady hand, you can get that crisp, pro-level look—no paint crew required.

Ready to give your trim a facelift? Just take it one brushstroke at a time. You’ve got this.