Tips for Painting Poplar Crown Molding

Sand unfinished molding with 220-grit sandpaper. Using sandpaper will help reduce surface imperfections on the molding. On finished poplar trim, the sandpaper also will reduce the glossy varnish for better primer adhesion.

Clean the molding with a trisodium phosphate cleanser and a rag.

Dry the molding with a towel or let it air dry.

Protect adjacent wall surfaces with painter's tape.

Paint the molding using a foam brush and oil-based paint. Brush the paint against the grain. Brushing against the grain helps work the paint into the wood's pores. However, this also leads to more visible brush strokes, so only use this method on the base coat. Then, use additional coats to smooth out the finish. Because poplar is a light, neutral wood, the first coat should provide adequate coverage without primer.

Paint the molding after the first coat dries. Brush with the grain this time to even out existing brush strokes for a smoother final appearance. Apply additional coats with the grain if necessary after the second coat dries.

Remove the painter's tape once the final coat dries.