How to Paint Around Molding
- 1). Cut off the tip of the tube of caulk with a utility knife so that the opening is approximately the diameter of a toothpick.
- 2). Insert the caulk tube into the caulk gun, tip first, and pivot the tube into place. Apply a thin bead of caulk along the back edges of the molding you plan to paint around. Smooth out the bead with the tip of your finger.
- 3). Wash off any excess caulk with a dampened sponge so that all that remains is a bead in the joint between the molding and the wall. Allow the caulk to dry for at least 24 hours.
- 4). Dip a sash brush into the paint to a depth of approximately 1/3 of the brush's length. Wipe off the excess paint from the edges of the brush on the inside rim of the paint can.
- 5). Hold the brush so that the long tip of the bristles is facing up. Start at one end of the molding and position the brush approximately 1/2-inch away from the molding. Apply pressure to the brush so that the long tip of the brush will move along the edge of the molding as you move the brush along the wall just below the molding. Keep the pressure and arm movement steady to create a clean line along the edge of the molding. Wipe off any accidental contact immediately with a damp rag. Continue in this manner until you have completed painting along the length of the molding.
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