How to Paint Baseboards on Carpet

I have created several different wall paneling treatments for our home, and I usually end up painting the baseboards to match the wall.  Unfortunately, many of the baseboards are on carpet (which can be tricky to paint), but I have figured out how to paint baseboards on the carpet.

Supplies needed to paint baseboard trim without painting the carpet:

• Packing Tape OR Painter’s Tape
• Putty Knife

To begin, run the packing (or painter’s) tape next to the baseboard – overlapping it so that there is some tape to stuff under the baseboard (make sure the tape is sticky side down).

I used the packing tape for convenience (I was out of painter’s tape at the time.). However, I have found that I prefer the painter’s tape since the paint dries faster on the painter’s tape than it does on packing tape. I prefer FrogTape, but the blue painter’s tape works as well.

The putty knife makes it easy to line the underside of the baseboard with tape.  There’s typically a decent gap between the bottom of the baseboard and the carpet that you will see once you are able to push down the carpet (and push back the tape). To better protect the carpet, run another strip of tape next to the first and add a drop cloth to avoid the hassle of paint splatters (which will happen no matter how careful you are).

Allow the paint to dry completely before attempting to remove the tape. I suggest two coats of paint (allowing the first coat of paint to dry completely before adding the second). This allows for good coverage and a nice paint job. 

Don’t overload your paintbrush (always use bristle brushes over foam brushes) and use quick horizontal strokes to avoid excess paint and paint drips. I also always suggest keeping a damp rag handy for quick clean-up if needed.

Painting baseboards on the edge of the carpet is so easy with this painting technique!

Want the full tutorial for this wall treatment I did in my boys’ room?  This board and batten cost me less than $100, and it makes such a nice statement in the space!  Go here for the full tutorial!

What other painting tricks do you have? Share in the comments!

Check out this other DIY wall treatment in our home. 

Go create something!

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