Giving your room a fresh coat of paint is one of the most effective ways to revitalise your space. When you’re ready to go a step further and paint the walls one colour while using a contrasting trim colour, the result can be stunning—but it can also be tricky if you don’t plan ahead. At Randall’s, we’re here to help you achieve a flawless finish without the headaches.
Why choose different colours for walls and trim
Opting for a different trim colour helps define the architecture of the space, emphasise features like skirting boards, architraves, window casings, and door frames, and adds depth and interest to the overall design. It allows your wall colour to shine while the trim either complements it or stands out as a design feature.
Step-by-step guide to getting it right
1. Plan your colour scheme
Start by selecting your wall colour, then choose a trim colour that harmonises or contrasts effectively. You’ll find help in choosing colours at Randall’s: we offer free in-store or virtual colour consultations and take-home poster-sized samples so you can see how colours perform in your own lighting. Randall's+1
2. Prepare the surfaces
Ensure both walls and trim are clean, dry, and free of dust or grease. Fill any dents or nail holes in the trim, sand lightly, and ensure surfaces are primed if required. Good preparation is as important as the paint itself.
3. Mask off or use the right approach for trim first
A common question is: “Should I paint the trim or the walls first?”
If you paint the trim first, you’ll have crisp edges where the wall meets the trim, but you’ll need to mask the fresh trim while painting walls.
If you paint the walls first, you’ll need to tape the trim and be very careful at the edges.
At Randall’s we can help you select the right paint and sundries, including quality tapes and tools. Randall's+1
4. Use high-quality paints and finishes
Because trim tends to receive more wear (chairs brushing against it, hands touching it, etc.), choose a hardy finish — such as a semi-gloss or satin for the trim — and a compatible finish for the wall (matte or eggshell often works well). At Randall’s you’ll find premium paints and stains from top brands. Randall's+1
5. Paint the trim carefully
Use a high-quality angled brush for the trim, and take your time. Brush away from the edge towards the centre of the trim piece to avoid brush marks showing. If there is a groove or detail in the trim, paint that first, then the flat face.
6. Paint the walls
Once the trim is dry (ideally at least 24 hours or as per paint manufacturer instructions), cover the trim with high-quality painter’s tape (if you haven’t painted the walls first). Paint the wall colour carefully, taking care at the edge where it meets the trim: you can use a small roller or brush to cut in, and keep a steady hand where the two colours meet.
7. Check for bleed or touch-ups
Once everything is dry, inspect the edge where wall meets trim. If the wall colour has bled onto the trim, lightly sand the trim edge and touch it up. If the trim colour has smudged slightly onto the wall, you can also touch up the wall edge. Keep the paint can/colour notation on file—Randall’s even offers colour-matching services so you can get the exact trim colour reformulated later. Randall's
8. Clean-up and protect your work
Remove painter’s tape while the paint is still slightly tacky (but not wet) to get a cleaner line. Clean your brushes and rollers so you can reuse them for future touch-ups. Keep a small sample pot of both the wall and trim colours for future maintenance.
Why Randall’s can help you every step of the way
- With two locations (Ottawa and Nepean) Randall's+1 you’ve got easy access to expert service and delivery.
- They provide free colour consultations and city-wide free delivery on paint, stains and sundries. Randall's+1
- They carry premium product lines for interior and exterior finishes. Randall's+1
- They can match any paint or stain colour if you ever need more or want to touch-up later. Randall's
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
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Not prepping properly – Always clean, sand and prime as needed.
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Choosing finishes that are too similar – You want trim to pop, so avoid using the same finish and near-identical colour for both.
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Rushing between coats – Let the first coat dry fully before applying the second coat, especially on trim.
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Cutting corners with tape – Invest in good painter’s tape and protect your surfaces.
- Ignoring lighting – Colours look different under varying light, so bring your samples home and view them at different times of day.
Painting your walls and trim in different colours can elevate your space from ordinary to exceptional — it brings definition, character and design flair. With careful planning, good products and the right technique, you can complete the job without unnecessary stress or mess.
When you’re ready to get started, drop into Randall’s showroom (or book a consultation) and let the experts help you make your vision real.