Best way to strip trim

Walls framed by baseboards and crown molding exude unmistakable character and polish, most notably in historical homes adorned by ornate crown moldings, built-in bookcases, and pocket doors. While removing layers of paint from intricate trim is labor-intensive, the right tools and techniques and a little patience can return even the most elaborate moldings and custom woodwork to their former good looks. First, pull on your protective gear—old clothing, goggles, a respirator mask, and solvent-resistant gloves—and then start prepping your work area. While a few of the newer paint strippers on the market are low-VOC, which means that they contain fewer volatile organic compounds, many emit toxic fumes, so adequate ventilation is essential.

Finding out which wood stripping method to use, and how to contain the debris, makes a messy job cleaner, safer, and more effective. Everyone knows that the simplest way to rejuvenate a tired surface is to put on a fresh coat of paint. Eventually, however, all new paint becomes old paint. Whether it cracks and blisters or just forms a lumpy blanket of pigments and binders, it begs to come off. The ideal way to start over is to strip furniture of the old stuff and begin with a baby-smooth, bare wood surface.

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By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy , Privacy Policy , and our Terms of Service. Let's say you have some detailed moulding around several interior doors and you want to strip the paint off with the least amount of labor time-wise? How would you go about it?