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What's the Best Tool for Painting Crown Molding?

Painting crown molding is one of those tasks that can really elevate a room, giving it a crisp, finished look. But let’s face it, it can also be tricky. With the molding’s height, intricate details, and hard-to-reach spots, it’s easy to feel a little intimidated. Luckily, the right tools—and a few good techniques—can make all the difference. If you’re gearing up to paint crown molding in your Sacramento home, here’s what you need to know about choosing the best tools and using them like a pro. If you need help painting the interior of your home, call Perryman Painting and Remodeling. We are the leading house painters in Roseville, CA, and we would be happy to help you.

Start with a Quality Brush

First and foremost, you need a good paintbrush. This is your main tool, and choosing the right one can make or break your project. When it comes to crown molding, you’ll want a 2 to 2.5-inch angled sash brush. The angled bristles give you more control and precision, especially when painting along edges and in corners, which is exactly what you need for molding.

Some of the best brands for this type of brush are Purdy and Wooster. Both are well-known in the painting world for their durability and smooth performance. Purdy’s Clearcut Glide brush is a top choice for detailed work like crown molding, as it provides excellent coverage without leaving behind brush marks. Similarly, Wooster’s Silver Tip angled brush is a great alternative, known for its flexibility and ease of use.

If you want to take your brush game to the next level, look for brushes with synthetic bristles, as they work best with today’s water-based paints. They hold their shape well and are less likely to shed bristles, making your painting job smoother and cleaner.

Painters Tape: A Must for Clean Lines

While a steady hand can do wonders, painter’s tape is your friend when it comes to achieving perfectly straight lines. Crown molding often butts up against walls and ceilings, so using a good-quality painter’s tape will help protect those surfaces and keep the paint where it’s supposed to be.

Brands like FrogTape or 3M ScotchBlue are industry favorites. FrogTape, in particular, is designed with PaintBlock technology, which helps to prevent paint from bleeding under the tape, giving you crisp, clean edges. Tape off the ceiling and walls along the edges of the crown molding, making sure the tape is pressed down firmly so no paint sneaks underneath.

Use a Stepladder for Comfort and Safety

You’re going to be painting up high, and no one wants to be teetering on a chair or reaching too far off a step stool. A good, sturdy stepladder is a key tool when painting crown molding. Opt for one with a wide base and non-slip feet to keep you stable while you work. Brands like Little Giant offer ladders with adjustable heights that are perfect for reaching those tricky spots while keeping your balance.

The right ladder will make the painting process much more comfortable, allowing you to paint from a steady position without overextending yourself. Whether you are painting as part of a kitchen remodel or doing a home makeover, doing the job right matters.

Consider a Paint Shield for Extra Precision

Another helpful tool for painting crown molding is a paint shield or edging guide. This is a flat, metal or plastic tool that you can hold up against the wall or ceiling to protect the surfaces while you paint the molding. It works similarly to painter’s tape but gives you more freedom to move quickly, without the hassle of taping everything off.

Paint shields are great for touching up areas where the tape might not have done its job or where the molding has tricky angles. Just make sure to clean the edge of the shield frequently as you go, so excess paint doesn’t smudge onto the surfaces you’re protecting.

Mastering the Right Technique

Now that you’ve got your tools ready, let’s talk technique. Painting crown molding requires a bit more finesse than rolling paint onto a wall, but it’s nothing you can’t handle.

Prep Your Molding

Start by cleaning the molding to remove any dust or debris. This will help the paint adhere better and give you a smoother finish. You can use a damp cloth to wipe it down or a vacuum with a brush attachment for hard-to-reach places.

Cut In with an Angled Brush

Using your angled sash brush, start by cutting in along the edges of the molding. Dip the brush about a third of the way into the paint, and tap off any excess before starting. Begin with the corners and edges, working your way along the length of the molding in smooth, even strokes. Keep your hand steady, and don’t overload the brush with paint—thin, controlled layers will prevent drips.

Watch Your Strokes

To get a smooth, even finish, use long, steady strokes. Try to keep the brush at a slight angle to follow the curves and details of the molding. If you notice any drips or excess paint, gently brush over them while the paint is still wet to even it out.

Apply a Second Coat

After the first coat dries, apply a second one for full coverage. Crown molding often has intricate details that may not fully cover with one coat. Lightly sand any rough spots between coats for a super-smooth finish.

Wrapping Up Your Project

Once your paint is dry, carefully remove the painter’s tape by pulling it back at a 45-degree angle. If you’ve used a paint shield for those last touch-ups, now’s the time to admire your straight lines and clean edges. Don’t forget to put your brushes in water right away if you’re using water-based paint, or in paint thinner for oil-based paint, to keep them in top condition for your next project.

Conclusion

Painting crown molding doesn’t have to be a daunting task, especially when you have the right tools on hand. With a good angled brush, quality painter’s tape, a sturdy ladder, and a little patience, you can achieve professional-looking results. At Perryman Painting & Remodeling, we’ve worked on plenty of crown molding projects in the Sacramento area, and we know that the right combination of tools and techniques can make all the difference. Whether you’re tackling it yourself or want to leave it to the pros, you’re well on your way to a beautifully finished room!

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What's the Best Tool for Painting Crown Molding?