For me, I paint a wall first, and then I come back in and I paint the trim.” The bottom line? Both approaches work. You just need to pick the one that fits your tools, timeline, and comfort level.

The 3M Hand-Masker is an essential painting tool for painting contractors, because it provides a fast, affordable and convenient way to cover trim or walls with masking tape, paper and plastic.

Whether you're painting walls, cabinets, or trim, this tool makes the process just that much easier, eliminating the need for excessive taping to protect the surfaces around your paint job.

“Paint is one of the most amazing design tools we have—it can truly transform a room,” Molster says on taking the plunge with non-white trim. Think about sheen ...

Painting your trim with a semi-gloss sheen will help it stand out from your walls, which is especially important in monochromatic rooms. Semi-gloss is also more durable.