Crown molding adds elegance to a space — but only when it’s painted right. Flaking edges, mismatched gloss, or visible brush strokes can take your trim from timeless to tired.
So what’s the secret to beautifully finished crown molding?
It starts with choosing the right type of paint.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
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The best paint finishes and sheens for trim
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How to get crisp, professional lines
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What to avoid when painting crown molding in your home
1. Use a Semi-Gloss or High-Gloss Finish
Why? Because crown molding is a decorative feature. You want it to stand out and hold up.
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Semi-gloss: Most popular — smooth, washable, and adds subtle contrast
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High-gloss: Best for dramatic trim, historic homes, or luxe spaces
These finishes:
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Resist scuffs and dust
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Reflect light to highlight detail
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Are easy to clean — ideal for high-touch areas
Avoid flat or eggshell finishes on molding. They show wear faster and won’t give you that polished look.
2. Use a Quality Acrylic Latex or Enamel Paint
For most homes in Victoria, we recommend:
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Acrylic latex for flexibility and easy cleanup
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Water-based enamel for a hard, durable finish that mimics oil-based paints (without the fumes)
These paints adhere well to wood, MDF, or previously painted surfaces, and dry quickly — great for tight timelines or quick room refreshes.
Pro tip: If your molding is bare wood or stained, consider priming with a stain-blocking primer first.
3. Stick With Classic Colours (Unless You’re Going Bold)
You can match your crown molding to your wall color, but most homeowners opt for clean, crisp white or a soft neutral that contrasts subtly with the walls.
Classic white shades we often use:
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Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace
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Sherwin-Williams’ Pure White
That said — dark crown molding can look stunning in modern or moody spaces. Just remember: darker colours demand perfect application, as every imperfection will show.
4. Use the Right Tools for a Smooth Finish
Skip the wall roller. For trim and molding, use:
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A high-quality angled brush (2 to 2.5 inches wide)
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Fine-grit sandpaper (for prep between coats)
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Painter’s tape or a steady hand for crisp lines
Optional: A sprayer can give an ultra-smooth, factory finish — ideal if you’re repainting multiple trim pieces at once or refinishing off-site.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Using the wrong finish: Matte paints will collect dust and scuff easily
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Skipping prep: Always clean and lightly sand for best adhesion
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Painting over glossy paint without sanding/priming: Your new coat will peel
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Cheap brushes: Leave visible strokes and bristle marks
When to Call a Professional
If you’re dealing with:
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Detailed Victorian or heritage molding
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High ceilings or vaulted spaces
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Drywall seams near trim
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Layered, chipping old paint
…it’s worth hiring a pro. At Victorian Painters, we specialize in trim and molding work — especially in older homes where precision matters most.
Let’s Make Your Crown Molding Stand Out
From paint selection to final touch-ups, we’ll help you get the flawless finish your space deserves. Whether you’re updating one room or refreshing your whole interior, trust our Victoria-based team to get it done right.
