Tips for Painting Stained Wood Trim

Taking on a painting project is always fun, but it’s far more exciting when the finished product is queued up to be done in a spectacular fashion. When it comes to painting, the main color will often only look as good as the trim surrounding it. Therefore, choosing a proper hue for the previously-stained wood trim is just as vital to the entire process being completed correctly. Here are a few ideas for painting trim that can still stand out on their own against a complementary background.

Check for Polyurethane

Before starting to apply the new color to the outside borders, it’s important to check for polyurethane that may have already been applied. If polyurethane is detected, taking a sandpaper to its surface will break down the chemical barriers, creating a more adhesive top layer for bonding the primer. This aids in helping the stain become resealed so it doesn’t seep into any other colors added later, potentially ending in an odd and terrible mix. 

Apply an Oil-Based Primer

Priming the trim is another crucial step, using an oil-based formula that will act as a slow-drying mechanism that can lead to a flawless finish. While any variety of paint brushes could work, the smaller, angled brush is better suited for painting trim. Once it’s slathered on, allowing it to dry overnight will help it set perfectly.

Fill in Miscellaneous Nail Holes

Before any real trim painting can begin, you’ll want to start with a smooth surface by filling in any random nail punctures. This will give you a fresh start, so to speak, when it comes to adding on the new coat. Window glazing makes for a great putty, sticking inside the nail holes nicely, followed by a quick shaving across the top for smooth lines. Once these steps have been carried out, the staining of the wood trim should easily become a breeze. 

Put these tips for painting trim into action and quickly notice the difference in the overall style and function of the home.