There’s nothing worse than applying a fresh coat of paint to wall trim, only to find that when it dries, it’s marred with brush marks. If you’re planning on painting the trim in any room in your home, there’s no doubt that you’re going to want to look its absolute best. Is there a way to apply paint to the trim so that it dries smoothly? There sure is! Here are some simple tips that you can use to ensure your trim dries nice and smooth.
Use the Right Brush
First and foremost, you’re going to want to make sure that you are using the right paint brush. The type of brush you use has a direct impact on the application of the paint. For trim, choose a brush that has a short handle, as it will be easier to control and will prevent your hand from becoming tired. It should feature high-quality, fine synthetic bristles would be ideal. Additionally, the bristles should be angled. These factors will ensure that the brush will hold more paint and that it will apply the paint more evenly onto the trim, which will create a smooth surface.
Prep the Surface
This is a step that a lot of DIY painters overlook, and it really shows. If you want to ensure the best results possible, make sure that you take the time to prep the trim before you apply a coat of paint. Start by repairing any dents and cracks, and filling any holes with woody putty. Once the putty has set, use a fine-grit sandpaper to make sure that the surface is even; the smoother the surface, the easier it will be to apply the paint smoothly over the entire surface of the trim.
After sanding, be sure to clean the trim; not only the surface, but the top, bottom, and corners, too. Wipe down the entire surface with a clean, damp cloth, and then use a vacuum cleaner to remove all loose dirt, hair, dust, and any other debris.
Avoid Over-Doing the Paint
When you’re ready to get started, avoid applying too much paint to the brush, as overloading the brush will increase the risk of leaving brush marks behind. To avoid overloading the brush, dip it approximately one inch into the paint, and then knock off any excess, loose paint.
Cut-In, Fill in Middle, and Work with the Grain
Once your paintbrush is loaded, start applying it by cutting in at the edges and along the top and bottom of the trim. Once these sections are done, you can return to fill in the middle sections. Hold your paintbrush at an angle (approximately 45 degrees), and applying gentle pressure, slowly swipe the brush across the surface of the trim, making sure to work with the grain.
Apply a Second Coat
Once you’ve covered the entire surface of the trim, allow it to thoroughly dry. Once dried, don’t skimp; apply a second coat, using the same process you used to apply the first coat.
By following these simple tips, you can paint the trim in your home just like a pro.