How to Paint Trim

Painting trim is one of the easiest ways to refresh a room and add a professional touch to your home. Whether you’re updating your baseboards, window trim, or door frames, the right paint and techniques can make all the difference. In this post, we’ll cover the types of paints to use, painting techniques, helpful tips, and even the best trending trim colors to consider.

The Trend of Color Drenching and Contrasting Trim Colors

In recent years, color drenching has emerged as a bold and exciting trend in interior design, and it’s extending to trim painting as well. This trend involves painting the walls, ceiling, and trim all the same color, creating a seamless, monochromatic look that feels both modern and sophisticated.

For example, you could paint your trim the same color as your walls to achieve a soft, cohesive look that envelops the room. This style works especially well with deep, muted tones or earthy neutrals like Sherwin-Williams’ Redend Point or Accessible Beige, creating a unified, calming atmosphere throughout the space. You can even take it a step further by painting the ceiling in the same color for a fully draped effect.

On the other hand, contrasting trim colors are also making waves in home design, offering a more dynamic and dramatic feel to a space. By painting the trim a bold or complementary color to the walls, you can highlight architectural features and add visual interest. For example, pairing a soft pastel wall with a deep navy blue trim creates an eye-catching contrast. Or, for a timeless look, white walls paired with a striking charcoal or a beige trim adds sophistication without overwhelming the room.

Both color drenching and contrasting trim are popular because they allow you to play with mood and style, from understated elegance to vibrant energy. It’s all about using trim as a design element to make a statement and elevate your space. Whether you’re opting for the bold simplicity of color drenching or the exciting contrast of bold trim, painting trim can completely transform the atmosphere of any room.

Materials Needed to Paint Trim

To paint trim effectively, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Paint (see below for recommendations)
• Primer (if the trim is unfinished or you’re changing colors)
• Paintbrushes (angled brushes work best for trim)
• Smaller Paintbrushes (for smaller more detailed areas)
• Painter’s Tape
• Drop Cloths (to protect floors and furniture)
• Paint Tray (if using a roller)
• Sandpaper (fine grit)
• Putty Knife (for filling holes or cracks)
• Wood Filler
• Rags (for wiping off excess paint or spills)

Choosing the Right Paint for Painting Trim

When it comes to painting trim, the type of paint you use is just as important as your technique. Here’s a breakdown of the best types of paint for trim:

1. Specific Trim Paint: Paint providers typically have at least one paint engineered for painting trim. (Like Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel.) These paints are made to be incredibly durable and scratch resistant, since baseboards and door frames tend to see a lot of wear and tear. They are typically a glossy finish, which also ensures that they are easier to wipe clean. They are also traditionally water based, which means they are easier to clean and have less VOCs (harmful smells).
2. Oil-Based Paint: Oil-based paints are known for their smooth finish and durability. They tend to be a bit more difficult to work with and take longer to dry, but the long-lasting finish can be worth the effort, especially for doors or trims that get a lot of wear and tear. One issue with oil-based paints is they can be tricky when painting again with a water based paint. They are also more smelly and off gas more VOCs.

Prep Work: Sanding and Priming

Before you start painting, it’s essential to prep the trim properly.

1. Clean the Trim: Use a damp cloth to wipe away dust, dirt, and any old paint. This ensures that the new paint will adhere well.
2. Fill Gaps and Holes: Use a putty knife to fill in any cracks, holes, or dents with wood filler. Let it dry completely, then lightly sand the surface for a smooth finish.
3. Sanding: Sand the trim lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any old paint or rough spots. This step will help the new paint adhere better and give you a more even finish.
4. Prime the Trim: If your trim is unfinished or you’re changing to a lighter color, apply a coat of primer. A high-quality primer ensures better coverage and prevents the old color from showing through.

Painting Techniques to Paint Trim

Once your trim is prepped and primed, it’s time to start painting! Follow these steps for a flawless finish:

1. Tape Off the Edges: Use painter’s tape to protect walls, floors, and adjacent areas from getting paint on them. Be sure to press the tape down firmly to avoid bleeding.
2. Start with the Edges: Begin by painting the edges or corner of the trim with a small angled brush. Work in small sections to maintain control and ensure smooth, even strokes.
3. Use Long, Smooth Strokes: After you’ve done the edges, use a larger brush or roller (for larger smooth trim) to fill in the flat surfaces. Use long, smooth strokes to avoid streaks and roller marks. Do not overwork the area. if you sense the paint is starting to dry and getting gummy, move on.
4. Apply Thin Layers: For the best results, apply several thin coats of paint rather than one thick layer. Let each coat dry fully before applying the next to avoid drips or streaks. (See paint can for time between layers.)
5. Touch Up: After the first coat has dried, inspect for any missed spots or areas where the coverage is uneven. Touch up these areas with a small brush.

Which Sides of the Doors Should You Paint?

When painting doors with trim, it’s important to know which sides to paint. I found that if you have a bold color it is best to assess which sides of the door you typically see when the door is in its “natural state”.

So for our coat closet, our door is rarely shut all the way. I didn’t paint the side of the door and it really sticks out and is noticeable, so I went back and painted the side to match the rest of the door. If bathroom or other room doors are regularly left ajar, you should paint the side of the door with the hinges the same color as the outside and leave the side with the door handle the same color as the inside.

Trending Trim Colors

Trim color trends shift, but here are some popular options to consider in 2023:

1. Classic White: White trim remains a timeless favorite for a clean, crisp look. It pairs well with nearly any wall color and is a go-to for modern, minimal, and farmhouse styles.
2. Light Beige: For a contemporary, subtle feel, beige trim offers a neutral option that looks sophisticated without being stark. Often paired with white walls.
3. Dark Navy or Charcoal: Bold, deep hues like navy and charcoal are making waves in trim design. They add drama and contrast, especially when paired with lighter walls.
4. Natural Wood: Embrace the natural look with stained wood trim. The warm tones of natural wood can complement neutral walls and add texture to any room.
5. Muted Pastels: For a more playful, soft look, consider pastel-colored trim in shades like blush pink, mint green, or soft lavender. These tones are ideal for bedrooms or nurseries.

Tips for a Smooth Finish

• Use High-Quality Paintbrushes: Invest in a high-quality angled brush for clean, precise lines. Cheap brushes can leave streaks or fraying.
• Use More Thin Layers: Trim paint is not like wall paint. I found it to be more thin, which meant I needed more layers. Be patient. Trim paint painted on thicker than intended will drip.
• Don’t Rush the Drying Process: Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next one. Rushing can cause streaks or drips.
• Paint in Sections: Work in smaller sections, especially on large trim areas, to maintain control and avoid the paint drying before you can blend it in.
• Ventilate the Room: Ensure good ventilation, to reduce fumes and help the paint dry faster.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to paint trim is an easy and affordable way to refresh a space. With the right paint, tools, and techniques, you can transform any room in your home. Whether you’re going for a timeless classic look with white trim or adding a pop of color with navy, these tips will help you get the job done with a professional finish. Happy painting!