Preparation

• 1). Sand down the frame with fine grade sandpaper, removing any splinters or rough areas.
  
  
• 2). Fill cracks, flaws or nail holes with wood filler. Allow to dry.
  
  
• 3). Sand off excess filler; wipe frame. Sweep up sawdust.
  
  
• 4). Brush knots with knot-sealing product. Allow to dry --- usually about 1 hour. (Reference 2)
  
  
• 5). On door or window frames, use the caulking gun to fill gaps between the frame and the wall with caulk. Wipe away excess caulk with a damp rag. (Reference 4)
  
  
• 6). Paint the frame with a primer-sealer suitable for your chosen paint. For latex paint, use water-based primer; oil-based paint requires oil-based primer. Dilute the primer slightly -- latex primer with a little water; oil-based with mineral spirits. Allow to dry. Sand lightly. (References 1, 2, 3, 5)
  
  

Painting

• 1). Stir paint according to the manufacturer's instructions. Using the 2-inch brush, paint the main surfaces of the frame. Dip bristle tips only into the paint, and wipe of excess on the edge of the can. Apply a thin, even coat, brushing in the direction of the wood grain.
  
  
• 2). Use a 1-inch or half-inch brush to paint narrow surfaces and edges. Check for dribbles -- especially in corners, where paint tends to accumulate -- and smooth these out with a brush.
  
  
• 3). Allow to dry completely.
  
  
• 4). Sand down. Wipe clean.
  
  
• 5). Apply a second coat.
  
  

Clean up

• 1). Before cleaning, remove as much paint as possible from the brushes. Wipe them on the can edge, or paint on newspaper or other waste surface until the brush is almost dry.
  
  
• 2). Clean brushes thoroughly in dish soap and warm water for latex. Use mineral spirits or brush cleaner for oil-based paints.
  
  
• 3). Wash brushes used for oil-based paint in hot soapy water after cleaning in mineral spirits. Stand brushes bristles upward to dry.