Painting Trim on Sliding Closet Doors

Apply the painter’s tape to the wall and closet doors to protect them from being painted. Press the tape onto the surface, creating a straight line. A straight line gives you a clean paint edge when you remove the tape.

Sand the trim by gently rubbing the sandpaper across the surface in a back and forth motion. Sand away glossy areas that might keep your new paint from adhering properly.

Use the wood putty to fill in small cracks and holes in the trim. Wait for the putty to dry and sand it so that it is even with the rest of the surface of the trim. Wipe the dust and dirt from the trim with the tack cloth. Contaminants can ruin a new paint finish, so it is important that they are removed.

Prime the trim using a paintbrush to seal in porous areas. Paintbrushes vary in size, so use one that is appropriate for your trim. Use a brush that is smaller in width compared to your trim to avoid a messy and uneven primer application. Wait for the primer to dry before continuing. Refer to the manufacturer’s directions for recommended drying times.

Use a high-quality paintbrush to apply your new paint finish. Cheap paintbrushes tend to leave brushstrokes and fall apart easily. Wait for the first coat to dry, then apply a second coat to the trim. Wait for the paint to dry before removing the tape.