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Adding picture frame moulding to your walls is a fairly easy way to elevate the aesthetic appeal of any room. Picture frame moulding/wainscoting is such a classic architectural detail that will stand the test of time. This guide will take you through the steps of installing picture frame moulding, from preparation to finishing touches.

Materials & Tools Needed

Shop my exact supply list from Lowe’s.

• Moulding pieces
• Measuring tape
• Level
• Miter saw
• 18 gauge finish nail gun
• Sanding block
• Paint
• Paintbrush & roller
• Caulk gun and caulk (and dry dex optional)
• Pencil

Step By Step Instructions

1. Plan Your Design

Start by deciding on the layout and dimensions of the picture frame moulding. Consider the size of the wall and the number of frames you want to install. Use a site such as THIS to help you determine spacing. I recommend using some painters tape to lay out the design ahead of time.

Decide which style of wall moulding you plan to use. We used 5/8 x 1-3/8 colonial basecap trim for our living room wall.

This is the design we came up with for our 8 foot ceilings.

2. Measure and Cut

Use a measuring tape to mark the position of each moulding piece on the wall with a pencil. Double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy.

I recommend starting each rectangle with the top piece. This will allow you to keep everything level as you build out your boxes. Using a miter saw, cut the moulding at a 45-degree angle to create clean corners. Measure each piece twice before cutting to avoid mistakes.

Note: No wall is perfect and some may bow out or have other variables. So be sure to measure each piece individually. Don’t ask how we found out our wall has a slight bow in it. (For example, your top piece may measure 38″ exactly but after attaching the 2 side pieces and you have a bowed out wall, your bottom piece may need to be cut to 38-1/4″.)

3. Attach the Moulding to the Wall

Position the moulding on the wall according to your pencil marks. It’s helpful to use a level to make sure your lines are straight. Use an 18 gauge nail gun (finish nailer) to secure the moulding. Shoot the nails in on an angle.

4. Fill Gaps and Holes

Use paintable latex caulk (not silicone) to fill any gaps between the moulding and the wall. Smooth the caulk with a baby wipe or a caulking tool for a clean finish. For nail holes, I like to wipe on some dry dex with a rubber gloved finger.

5. Sand

Once the caulk is dry, give the trim a light sanding to ensure a smooth finish.

6. Paint

Use a paintbrush for the moulding and a roller to apply the paint to the walls.

I chose the color Greek Villa by Sherwin Williams, Emerald paint, matte sheen. A warm and sunny white with an LRV of 84, making it perfect for this North/East facing room.

Cost Breakdown

• Trim: $175
• Caulk, Sanding Block, Putty Knife, Paint Tray, Roller, and other miscellaneous paint supplies: $44
• Paint: $63
• Total: $282