Ceiling Trim

Room by Room : Episode RXR-202 -- More Projects »
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Materials:

picture frame trim
corner rosettes
level
measuring tape
pencil
primer
sandpaper
tack cloth
miter box
back saw
hammer
2d finish nails
nail set
flush spackle
caulk
masking tape
paintbrush
interior semi-gloss paint for trim (Sandbar White 3E-3)
paint for walls (discontinued: Fencepost 26-Y-2)
carpenter's wood glue

Steps:
  1. Measure the dimensions of the room and purchase enough trim material to do the entire area. The featured project spaced the corner rosettes at 20-inch intervals, so divide the total room measurement by 20 to determine how many rosettes to purchase. Using the dimensions of the rosettes, establish where the trim will be placed. Remember not to put the trim too low, which would make the rosettes appear as if they were floating. Using a large level, draw a line around the perimeter of the room. This will be used as the guide line for placing the picture frame trim.
  2. Paint between the pencil line and the ceiling trim with the same color and type of paint that was used on the crown molding. Allow this to thoroughly dry before starting to place the trim.
  3. Pre-prime all the picture frame trim and rosettes using a quick-dry primer. Make sure to use a drop cloth, and keep the area well ventilated. Lightly sand the primed pieces with 220-grit paper to smooth the edges. Remove all dust with a tack cloth. Cut out the picture frame trim using a miter box and back saw. Place the cut trim on the pencil line and secure it to the walls using 2d finish nails. Set the nail heads and fill the nail holes with a flush spackle. Then apply a small bead of caulk around the trim--this will help to give the finished project a terrific look.
  4. Apply a second coat of paint to the inside surface of the wall below the crown molding and to the picture frame trim. Use masking tape to protect the wall below the picture frame trim; this will help the job go a lot faster.
  5. Tap a nail into the back of each rosette to use as a handle and paint them with the same paint as the trim. Allow the rosettes to thoroughly dry. Confirm how far apart to space rosettes, but don't start right in the corner--allow eight to 10 inches from the corner before starting. Spread carpenter's wood glue on the back, and then press each rosette to the wall with enough pressure to secure it. Hold it for about 30 seconds before releasing, allowing the glue to set. Wipe any excess glue away with a damp cloth.Note: If you do a lot of trim work, invest in a power miter saw if desired. This will give smooth cuts and take a lot less time. As with all power tools, be sure to read the directions and follow the safety guidelines.
Resources
paint - Dutch Boy
Dutch Boy
Website: www.dutchboy.com
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