What is the Best Paint Brush for Trim and Baseboards? (2023)

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You may have tried various paint brushes in the past, only to be left with uneven lines, frustrating bristle shedding, and a finish that falls short of your expectations. 

With so many options claiming they are the best paint brushes for trim, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Fortunately, our pro painters tested different paint brushes to give you the best options. 

Premium Option
Wooster Brush 4153-1 1/2 Ultra/Pro Extra-Firm Lind Beck
Editor’s Choice
Purdy Clearcut Series Glide Angular Trim PaintBrush
Budget Option
Wooster Brush Q3211-2 Shortcut Angle Sash Paintbrush
Wooster Brush 4153-1 1/2 Ultra/Pro Extra-Firm Lind Beck
Purdy Clearcut Series Glide Angular Trim PaintBrush
Wooster Brush Q3211-2 Shortcut Angle Sash Paintbrush
• Made from 100% nylon
• Ferrule firmly holds bristles
• Superior stiffness retention
• Flagged Briste
• Angled polyester bristles
• Fluted, natural hardwood handle
• Superior cutting-in capability
• Nylon polyester brush
• Hand-chiseled, tipped
• Suitable for all paints
• Flexible Shergrip handle
• Brass-plated steel ferrule
• Works with oil-based and latex paint
• Size, inch/mm: 2/50
• Polyester bristles material
Premium Option
Wooster Brush 4153-1 1/2 Ultra/Pro Extra-Firm Lind Beck
Wooster Brush 4153-1 1/2 Ultra/Pro Extra-Firm Lind Beck
• Made from 100% nylon
• Ferrule firmly holds bristles
• Superior stiffness retention
• Flagged Briste
Editor’s Choice
Purdy Clearcut Series Glide Angular Trim PaintBrush
Purdy Clearcut Series Glide Angular Trim PaintBrush
• Angled polyester bristles
• Fluted, natural hardwood handle
• Superior cutting-in capability
• Nylon polyester brush
• Hand-chiseled, tipped
• Suitable for all paints
Budget Option
Wooster Brush Q3211-2 Shortcut Angle Sash Paintbrush
Wooster Brush Q3211-2 Shortcut Angle Sash Paintbrush
• Flexible Shergrip handle
• Brass-plated steel ferrule
• Works with oil-based and latex paint
• Size, inch/mm: 2/50
• Polyester bristles material

Reviews of the Top Paint Brushes for Trim

1. Purdy 144152125 Clearcut Series Glide Angular Trim PaintBrush

The Pudy 144152125 Clearcut Paint Brush is designed with a unique blend of natural bristles tapered to a fine point, making it a high-performance brush that is incredibly easy to create sharp, precise lines and angles. 

Whether for painting trims, cutting in around window trim and doors, or creating intricate designs, this good quality brush gave the control and precision needed to get the painting project done right.

These purdy brushes handle is comfortable to grip, even during extended periods of use. During our test, we were amazed at how this brush can be cleaned up easily and maintain its shape and natural bristles integrity even after use.

What We Like

What We Don't Like

2. Wooster Brush 4153-1 1/2 Ultra/Pro Extra-Firm Lind Beck

The Wooster 4153-1 1/2 Ultra/Pro Brush is incredibly durable and maintains its quality even after a long workday—consistently producing clean edges. This brush’s extra-firm bristles are ideal for corners and short crown molding.

Compared to other brushes on the market, Wooster Brushes retain their shape, even after repeated use in a painting job. While cheaper options are available, these Wooster Ultra/Pro brushes are a worthwhile investment.

This Ultra/Pro brush is available in various sizes, but we like the ½” width because it is particularly versatile and suitable for all-purpose use. Our pro painters find it especially useful for touching up tight areas. 

What We Like

What We Don't Like

3. Wooster Brush Q3211-2 Shortcut Angle Sash Paintbrush

The brush’s design is unique and features a short handle, making it easy to maneuver and control, especially in tight spaces.

The angled bristles are soft and provide an even,  smooth finish. As one of the best paint brushes for trim, it holds a decent amount of paint to cover more surface area without constantly dipping my brush into the paint can.

The Wooster Q3211-2 Brush is also easy to clean even after multiple uses. The comfortable soft-grip handle of the brush is also noteworthy and helps prevent hand fatigue during prolonged periods of use. However, if you have big hands, this might be an issue for you. 

What We Like

What We Don't Like

4. Zibra PB100LZS 1in. Square Paintbrush

One of the most notable features of the Zibra PB100LZS Square Paintbrush is its size. With a 1-inch square head, it’s ideal for working with smaller areas or achieving fine details. 

The bristles are made from a blend of synthetic materials. Additionally, the brush’s angular shape allows for precision when cutting in and trimming edges.

One minor drawback of this paintbrush is that it’s relatively expensive compared to other brushes on the market. However, this is to be expected given the high quality of the materials and the precision engineering that went into its design.

What We Like

What We Don't Like

5. Bates Interior Trim Brush, 0.75 Inch, Edge Painting Tool

With its 0.75-inch paint brush for trim, it’s the perfect size for precise trimming edges and achieving a clean straight line in tight spaces. One of the standout features of this brush is its angled design, which makes it easy to hold and control. 

Its synthetic bristles are designed to hold more paint without soaking it up for a smooth paint release. This means you can spend more time painting and less time reloading your synthetic brushes.

However, the Bates 0.75-Inch Trim Brush may not be suitable for all types of paint. But the brush head is durable, and will not detach easily. 

What We Like

What We Don't Like

6. Purdy 144080310 XL Dale Angled Sash Paint Brush, Tynex Orel

These bristles are a blend of nylon and polyester, making this brush extremely durable and long-lasting. We like its excellent stiffness, allowing you to hold its shape and maintain its performance over time. 

This trim brush is suitable for various paints, including latex and oil-based paints. It can be used for various painting projects, including trim work, cutting in, and detailing, which makes it one of the best paint brushes.

This Purdy 144080310 XL Paintbrush is ideal for painting trim around exterior window sills [1], eaves, and doors. The moisture-resistant bristles suit humid conditions, and when your hands are oily or wet, its wooden handle provides a comfortable grip.

What We Like

What We Don't Like

7. Zibra PB200LT 2in Angle Sash Trim Paint Brush

The Zibra PB200LT Paint Brush for trim has sturdy stiffness, so you can hold its shape and maintain its performance over time. 

Many professionals prefer the Grip-n-Glide Angle Sash paint brush for its effectiveness in molding and trimming. This is due to the flexible bristles and comfortable hourglass handle, especially suitable for those who hold the brush with a pencil grip.

The thin bristles are excellent for loading up a lot of paint, and they never spread out too much. Additionally, the hourglass handle provides a comfortable grip that eases the strain on hands.

What We Like

What We Don't Like

Paint Brushes for Trim Buyer’s Guide

Size

It is important to take into account the width of the baseboard or trim that you are painting. Additionally, it is essential to choose a brush that is appropriately sized for the task at hand. 

Using a brush that is too big can make it difficult to manage and cause streaks, whereas a brush that is too small may not provide adequate coverage for the surface area.

Shape

Trim brushes are not designed in a round shape. Instead, they are made in a flat, angled style. However, the bristle shape of these brushes can differ significantly. These are three primary shapes available to select from.

Handle

When selecting the best paint brush for trim, the handle is a crucial factor to keep in mind. Opt for a brush that lets you maintain control while you are painting and provides a comfortable grip. 

Our experts typically favor wooden brush handles however they can be costly. On the other hand, rubber or plastic handles are more economical and provide better traction.

Style and Bristles

It is essential to contemplate the paintbrush types required and the necessary quality. While high-quality brushes may be more expensive, they tend to be more long-lasting and durable than less expensive, off-brand alternatives.

The following are some of the paintbrush types for trim:

Natural Bristle Brushes

When working with oil-based paints, varnishes, shellac, polyurethane finishes, and latex paints, we recommend using natural bristle brushes. 

A natural bristle brush can hold a more significant amount of paint, and the flagging or frizzing at the tip of the soft bristles aids in the precise and even distribution of paint.

Blended Nylon/Polyester Brushes

These brushes are created by mixing polyester and nylon, making them tough and able to maintain their shape. Poly/Nylon brush is often utilized for painting baseboards and trim as they are rigid and have a precise tip. They are also simpler to wash.

Brand and Where to Buy

Zibra, Wooster Bates, and Purdy are among the best paint brush manufacturers that provide a wide range of brushes in various sizes and bristle types to meet the needs of any painting activity.

These brands are readily available for purchase online at sites like Home Depot or Amazon, as well as at local hardware.

The Ideal Type of Paintbrush For Trim & Baseboards

Flexible Bristles and/or Handle

This type of paint brush is useful when working in confined areas as it enables you to maintain control while painting all edges and corners.

Short Handle

Brushes with smaller handles can help you reach and navigate through more intricate spaces while also allowing for better handling and control of the brush for a smoother finish.

2-inch Width

This particular paint brush size is ideal for trimming as it strikes a balance between being not too small or too large. This helps to prevent errors while also enabling you to cover more surface area in a shorter amount of time.

Angled Bristles

Using these types of paintbrushes can enhance the overall coverage of paint on the details of your paint trims and enable you to create clean lines during painting.

Brush vs Roller: Which is the Best Way to Paint Trim and Baseboards?

Why Choose a Roller

Rollers are better suited for larger surfaces like walls and ceilings. They can cover large areas quickly and efficiently but may not provide the same level of detail and accuracy as brushes. 

However, if you have large, flat baseboards or trim, rollers can be an effective tool to use.

Why Choose a Brush

Brushes are often preferred for trim and baseboards because they offer more precision and control. Choose paint brushes if you want to easily reach into tight spaces and corners. Brushes are also ideal for creating straight lines and edges. 

Additionally, brushes allow for greater flexibility when it comes to applying multiple coats and layering paint.

How Can You Paint Trim and Baseboards Without Brush Marks?

Supplies You’ll Need

Instructions to Follow

painting materials and tools
  1. Prepare the surface by ensuring it is free of debris and clean for a smoother finish.
  2. Start by using a brush that is dry and free from any dirt or debris.
  3. Keep the brush moist by dipping it back into the paint as needed.
  4. To prevent the paint from drying on the brush, we advise working on small sections at a time.
  5. Take long and sweeping strokes and move to the direction of the edges.
  6. It’s best to refrain from going over a particular section more than two times.
  7. If possible, paint the baseboards or trim before installation to make touch-ups easier later on.

Extra Tips When Painting Trim or Baseboards

FAQ

Does using an expensive paintbrush make a difference?

Most brushes that are expensive are typically made from higher-quality materials, such as natural animal hair or high-quality synthetic fibers, quality plastic handle brushes, or wooden and are designed to hold more paint and provide better control and precision.

Should I prime trim before applying paint?

Yes, it is recommended to prime trim before you apply paint. Priming helps to create a smooth finish and even surface for the paint to adhere to and can also help to seal any porous areas on the surface. We suggest Zinsser or Kilz primer for good results. 

How do you clean trim before the paint application?

To prepare for painting, utilize tack cloth, a cloth that is free of lint and covered in an adhesive material that eliminates dust and debris. If you don’t have access to a tack cloth, a moist or damp cloth is a good substitute.

You might also want to check out:

Which should I paint first, the walls or the trim?

Typically, professional painters commence their paint project by painting the trim initially since it necessitates the most intricate work and is simpler to execute without correcting any errors. Any mistakes can be easily concealed when the walls and ceiling are painted subsequently. 

Read Next: Should You Sand Between Coats of Paint?

Our Top Pick For a Paint Brush for Trim:
Purdy Clearcut Series Glide Angular Trim Paintbrush

Overall, the combination of high-quality materials, expert craftsmanship, unique design, and innovative technology make the Purdy Clearcut Series Glide Angular Trim PaintBrush the best paint brush for trim and baseboards. 

It’s the top choice for professionals and DIYers alike for its professional-looking finish and ease of control. 

Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. His brainchild, Sawinery, allowed him to do so as well as connect with other craftsmen. He has since built an enviable workshop for himself and an equally impressive online accomplishment: an extensive resource site serving old timers and novices alike.
Robert Johnson
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