How to Use Stain Grade Trim
- 1). Set up two sawhorses and lay all of the trim out on them. Sand down the surface of each piece of trim with medium-grade sandpaper. Sand over each piece until it is smooth and wipe away any excess with a dry cloth.
- 2). Sand over all of the pieces a second time with fine-grade sandpaper until they are perfectly smooth. Remove all dust and debris with a dry cloth.
- 3). Dip a clean paint brush into a can of stain and brush on the stain in smooth, even strokes. Apply the stain over the trim until it is completely covered and repeat the process for all of the other pieces of trim. Wait 24 hours for the stain to properly dry.
- 4). Sand the stained wood carefully with 220-grit sandpaper until there is a smooth finished surface. Apply polyurethane to the trim with a new paint brush. Add a thin coat over the surface of each piece of trim and allow it an hour to dry.
- 5). Sand down the trim with 220-grit sandpaper and re-coat it with polyurethane. Repeat the process for three coats of polyurethane. Allow the trim 48 hours to dry before installation.
- 6). Measure the spot on the wall where the trim will be installed and mark the length on the trim with a pencil. Cut the trim to size with a miter saw. Slide the trim into the saw and line up the blade with the mark on the trim. Pull the blade straight through the trim.
- 7). Line the trim up on the wall and hammer it in place with small finishing nails. Insert a nail every 6-inches along the trim. Cover all nail holes with a dab of wood putty. Wipe away excess putty with a clean rag and install the next piece of trim in the same manner.