How to Put Trim on Cabinet Doors

Adding trim to cabinet doors is an effective way to elevate the overall appearance of your kitchen or bathroom. Not only does trim enhance the aesthetic appeal, but it also allows for personal expression, enabling homeowners to achieve a custom look that reflects their style.

This guide on how to put trim on cabinet doors will walk you through the steps involved in selecting, measuring, and applying trim, ensuring a professional finish that can invigorate your cabinetry and impress any visitor. Whether you’re renovating an entire space or just looking to update your cabinets, this project is both manageable and rewarding.

Why Add Trim to Cabinet Doors?

Before we dive into the process, let’s explore why adding trim to cabinet doors is a worthwhile endeavor. Here are some reasons to consider:

Personalization:

By adding trim, you can add character and personality to your cabinets, making them stand out from standard designs.

Cost-effective:

Instead of replacing your entire cabinetry, adding trim is a more budget-friendly option that still gives your space a fresh, updated look.

Hides Imperfections:

If your cabinets have any wear and tear, such as scratches or dents, adding trim is a simple way to conceal them without having to replace the entire door.

Easy to Replace:

Trim can be easily removed and replaced if you want to change up the look of your cabinets in the future.

8 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Put Trim on Cabinet Doors

Step 1: Measure Your Doors

Before you begin adding trim, it’s essential to take accurate measurements of your cabinet doors. Start by measuring the height and width of each door using a tape measure. Record these dimensions to ensure you select the appropriate size of trim. Consider the style you want to achieve; the trim should complement the existing structure of the cabinets while allowing for any design features you wish to incorporate.

Additionally, keep in mind the thickness of the trim, as this will affect how it fits on the door and can influence the overall look. Taking these measurements properly will lay a solid foundation for a successful trim application.

Step 2: Select Your Trim

Choosing the right trim is crucial for achieving the desired look for your cabinet doors. There are various types of trim available, including moulding, beadboard, and decorative elements, each offering a different style and finish. When selecting your trim, consider the overall design theme of your space. For a classic look, opt for traditional crown or base moulding, while more contemporary settings might benefit from sleek, minimalist designs.

Additionally, consider the material of the trim; options range from solid wood and MDF to plastic and composite materials. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of durability, cost, and ease of installation. Once you’ve identified the style and material that suits your vision, ensure you purchase enough trim to cover all cabinet doors, accounting for any additional pieces in case of errors or adjustments during installation. Taking the time to select the perfect trim will contribute significantly to the final outcome of your project.

Step 3: Prepare the Trim

Before applying the trim, it’s essential to prep it properly. Depending on the type of material you’ve chosen, this may involve sanding rough edges or filling any cracks or crevices with wood filler.

If your trim has a glossy finish, lightly sanding it can help create a better bond between the surface and adhesive. Additionally, if you plan to paint or stain the trim, now is the time to do so. Make sure to let it dry completely before proceeding with installation.

Step 4: Cut Trim Pieces

Once your trim is prepared, the next step is to cut it to the appropriate lengths for your cabinet doors. Start by using a miter saw for clean and precise cuts, ensuring that you make angled cuts where necessary, especially for corners. It’s important to measure and mark each piece carefully before cutting to avoid mistakes.

For straight lengths, measure from the edge of the door, marking the trim with a pencil. If your trim design includes corners, remember to cut at a 45-degree angle for a seamless joint. Take your time during this step to ensure all pieces fit together well, as this will contribute to a professional finish once the trim is applied. After cutting, double-check each piece against your measurements to make sure they align perfectly with the cabinet doors.

Step 5: Test Trim Pieces

Before permanently attaching the trim, it’s a good idea to do a test run by placing the pieces on your cabinet doors. This allows you to make any necessary adjustments and ensures that everything lines up correctly. If any pieces seem off or don’t fit properly, this is the time to make changes. Additionally, you can use this opportunity to visualize how the final result will look.

It’s also a good idea to number each trim piece and its corresponding door so that you can easily keep track of which piece goes where during installation.

Step 6: Apply Adhesive

Once you’re satisfied with the fit, it’s time to apply adhesive to the back of your trim pieces. A strong adhesive, such as construction-grade glue or heavy-duty double-sided tape, works best for this project. Apply the adhesive evenly on the back of each piece and make sure there are no gaps.

If using liquid adhesive, avoid getting any excess on the visible side of the trim, as this could impact the final appearance. Allow some time for the adhesive to dry slightly before attaching the trim to the cabinet doors.

Step 7: Attach Trim

Begin attaching the trim pieces to your cabinet doors, starting from one corner and working your way around. Make sure to press firmly when applying, ensuring a secure bond between the trim and door. If using liquid adhesive, wipe off any excess with a damp cloth before it dries.

For corners, use clamps or tape to hold the pieces in place while the adhesive dries completely. Also, check for any gaps or unevenness during installation and make adjustments as needed.

Step 8: Finish

Once all pieces are attached and dry, you can add any final touches such as sanding down rough edges or filling in gaps with caulk. If you plan to paint or stain the trim, now is the time to do so. Allow everything to dry completely before rehanging your cabinet doors and enjoying your newly adorned cabinets!

Following these steps on how to put trim on cabinet doors will help you achieve a professional and polished look for your cabinet doors. With the right measurements, trim selection, and installation technique, you can transform the appearance of your cabinets and add a touch of personal style to your space. Remember to take your time, double-check measurements, and make any necessary adjustments for a flawless finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I Put Trim on Any Type of Cabinet Door?

A: Yes, you can put trim on any type of cabinet door, including flat, raised panel, and Shaker-style doors. However, the type of trim you choose may vary depending on the style and material of your cabinet door.

Q2: Do I Need Special Tools to Put Trim on Cabinet Doors?

A: While a miter saw is recommended for precise cuts, you can also use a hand saw or even scissors for thinner trims. Other helpful tools include a tape measure, level, and clamps or tape for installation.

Q3: Can I Remove Trim from Cabinet Doors if I Change My Mind?

A: Yes, removable adhesives such as double-sided tape allow you to easily remove the trim without damaging the cabinet doors. However, this may not be possible with permanent adhesives such as construction glue.

Q4: How Do I Choose the Right Trim for My Cabinet Doors?

A: Consider the style and material of your cabinet doors, as well as your personal preference in terms of design. Take into account durability and cost factors when selecting a trim material. Additionally, it’s helpful to gather inspiration from design magazines or online sources to find the perfect trim for your project. 

Final Thoughts

Adding trim to cabinet doors is a simple and cost-effective way to enhance the overall look of your space. With these step-by-step guidelines on how to put trim on cabinet doors, you can easily achieve a professional finish, giving your cabinets a new and improved appearance. Remember to choose the right trim for your design theme, prep and cut it properly before installation, and take your time during the process for best results.

And most importantly, have fun with it and let your personal style shine through in the final outcome!  So go ahead and give it a try – you’ll be amazed at how much of a difference adding trim can make to your cabinets. Happy decorating!