Installing Picture Molding the DIY Way
Are you looking for an easy way to elevate the charm of your home? Install picture molding! Picture molding might be just the detail you need!
The classic wall treatment; picture molding adds depth, character, and a touch of timeless elegance to any space (without the cost of a full renovation).
In this post, I will walk you through how my husband and I installed picture molding in our living room. We will share every step we took so you can feel confident tackling this project in your own home.
Supply List
Step by Step Guide For Installing Picture Molding
Step 1- Make a Plan
Before you start any project, always start with a plan.
When it comes to installing picture molding, use painter’s tape to help you visualize your design.
By having a visual you can see if it is the look you are going for or if it needs some tweaking (before you start nailing trim to the wall).
Step 2- Gather Supplies
Once you have your game plan set, gather up all your supplies and set up your workstation for cutting your trim. We always set up our workstation in the garage where we do not have to worry about weather delays, but you do what works best for you.
Step 3- Measure your 1st Trim Piece
Measure the first piece you want to put on your wall.
It doesn’t really matter what piece you chose to do first. (We chose to begin with the longest trim piece at the top of the wall near the ceiling)
Step 4- Cut your 1st Trim Piece
Once measured, cut your trim to size with a 45 degree angle on both ends.
Step 5- Nail Trim Piece to the Wall
Use your nail gun to attach the cut trim piece you cut to the wall where it belongs.
Step 6- Repeat Steps 3 – 5 Till You Finish a Square
Continue measuring, cutting, and nailing each piece of trim until your design is complete.
Some people like to measure and cut everything at once, then move on to attaching all the trim pieces at once. That method can be quicker (especially if your walls are straight.). But if your walls are a bit wonky like ours, I recommend taking the extra time to work on one piece at a time. This ensures your trim corners meet cleanly without gaps.
Step 7- Let the New Trim Rest
Once you have all the trim pieces installed to your wall let the new trim rest for a full 24 hours.
This step is a tip from my husband! Letting it rest allows the trim and walls to expand and contract naturally before you move on to caulking and filling.
Step 8- Caulk/Wood fill
Use wood filler to fill in all the nail holes. Then caulk all the edges where your trim meets the wall. This created a clean, seamless look.
This step is sooo important for making your new picture molding look polished and professional.
Step 9 – Sand wood filler
Once your wood filler and caulk are fully dry, sand any filled areas to make them nice and smooth.
Step 10- Paint
Now it is time to paint your freshly installed picture molding in the color of your choice.
(We painted ours the color “Blank Canvas” by Behr.)
Step 11- Add the Details
“It’s all in the details” as they say.
It is the details that bring your project together and leave people saying “Wow!”.
For this specific picture molding project, the details we chose were picture frames and candle sconces. Transforming our plain wall into a beautiful gallery wall with a personal touch.
Inside the large picture molding rectangle, we hung six large picture frames (I will link them here so you can find them). We went for a gallery look with custom mats for each frame, centering a 5×7 photo at the top instead of the middle. (I used this website to order the mats)
To add a personal touch, we choose photos we took ourselves of the places we have been that have deep meaning in our lives. We even made small labels to display the city’s name.
To leave room for future adventures, I cut out pieces of fabric for the two middle frames. This not only created space for more meaningful photos later, but also helped tie in our home’s scheme to make everything feel more cohesive.
In the two tall, narrow picture molding sections on either side of the large picture molding section, I placed a black candle sconce in each (I will link them here so you find them). The candle sconces elongate the wall and add a warm light source, helping the room feel extra cozy. (You can find out more about my tips on lighting your home here.)
The details are what I live for and really turn your house into a home.
Step 12- Enjoy!
Step back and admire your beautiful new space!
Install Picture Molding
Installing picture molding is such a rewarding DIY project that adds instant charm and elegance to your home.
With little planning, patience, and attention to detail, you can transform a plain wall into a stunning focal point that reflects your personal style.
I hope this guild to install picture molding gives you the confidence to take on your own picture molding project (and maybe even inspires you to add a few extra thoughtful touches along the way!).
