Effortless Farmhouse Window Trim DIY: Transform Your Home with Classic Style for Under $30

Revitalize your living space with this comprehensive, step-by-step DIY tutorial. Learn how to easily recreate a classic simple farmhouse look around any window using just a few basic tools and readily available lumber. Discover the incredible transformation you can achieve for around $30, adding significant character and charm to your home!

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Embarking on a home renovation journey often reveals both delightful surprises and a few disappointments. When we first laid eyes on our farmhouse fixer-upper, while the potential was undeniable, a recurring theme of missing original features struck me as a significant setback. The charm of a 1900s farmhouse often lies in its unique architectural details, and many of these had been systematically stripped away over the years.

Instead of the warm, original wood floors, we found cold laminate. The elegant, wide window moldings typical of the era had been replaced with narrow, uninspired 1960s-style versions. Hollow-core doors, devoid of character, stood where solid, weighty originals once did. Even the kitchen stairs boasted a utilitarian metal railing that felt more appropriate for a trailer park than a historic farmhouse. (You can witness all these pre-renovation details in the video tour here).

However, having successfully remodeled two previous homes, including an extensive ranch-to-cottage transformation, I’ve learned an invaluable lesson: most cosmetic issues can be rectified. Flooring can be replaced, doors can be swapped, and moldings can be restored or recreated. What truly cannot be changed is the fundamental appeal of a property’s location. We were utterly captivated by the breathtaking property and its panoramic views, not to mention the undeniable curb appeal of the farmhouse’s exterior.

With the location firmly secured, our overarching goal became clear: to meticulously restore the original character of this beautiful 1900s farmhouse. The home itself features a straightforward ‘T’ shape, complete with a charming front porch and a side porch that had been enclosed at some point. Its simple design means there’s no grand, formal entry, and the only access to the second floor is conveniently located within the kitchen area. Therefore, our guiding principle for all renovations and feature additions is to maintain a clean, simple, and authentic aesthetic that honors the home’s humble origins.

Farmhouse Window Trim Before: A Lack of Character

Among the many areas needing attention, we decided to prioritize the window trim in the open living and dining area. These windows are expansive, offering magnificent views of the surrounding landscape. Yet, their potential was significantly diminished by the small, rather insignificant mid-century style molding that framed them. This type of molding did little to enhance the natural beauty outside or complement the emerging farmhouse aesthetic inside.

I have firsthand experience with the profound impact that well-designed trim can have on a house. It’s a surprisingly powerful element that instantly infuses character into any home, whether it’s a builder-grade new construction, a humble ranch, or a lovingly remodeled older property like ours. Good trim creates visual interest, defines spaces, and adds a layer of finished elegance that simple walls often lack. Thankfully, during our initial assessment, we discovered that the original trim was still perfectly intact on the upstairs windows. This was a moment of genuine relief and excitement, as it provided us with an invaluable guide for our downstairs renovations.

Upstairs Farmhouse Original Window Trim: Our Guiding Inspiration

Many contemporary farmhouse window trim tutorials often suggest using 1 x 4 boards for the flat molding around the window edges. While this can look nice, we aimed for authenticity that matched our specific 1900s farmhouse. A close examination of our large original upstairs windows revealed a more substantial approach: they featured a generous 5-1/4″ wide molding. These are genuinely robust and impactful pieces, lending a sense of solidity and classic character that modern, narrower trims simply can’t replicate. The configuration of the sill, bottom, and side moldings in these originals exhibited a timeless, classic style that we knew we wanted to emulate.

The main point of discussion and deliberation, however, revolved around the top of the window trim. This particular design choice fell squarely on my shoulders, as Brian, bless his heart, prefers to defer such aesthetic decisions to me – a situation that is simultaneously a blessing (creative freedom!) and a curse (all the pressure!).

The original upstairs trim is undeniably basic, characterized by the side boards simply butting directly into the top board. While this is perfectly authentic for many farmhouses, I felt that for the more ‘formal’ downstairs living and dining rooms, a subtle enhancement was in order. My instinct told me that adding too many ornate molding pieces wouldn’t align with the simple, clean lines of our farmhouse. After exploring numerous styles and poring over historical examples, I made the decision to incorporate a 1×2 board between the main top board and the side boards. This subtle addition, with its narrow side facing out, provides a small but significant architectural detail.

I genuinely believe this specific detail adds just the right touch, creating a more finished and intentional look without betraying the house’s inherent clean and simple aesthetic. It strikes a perfect balance, elevating the trim slightly while remaining true to the farmhouse’s humble roots. This detailed thought process is crucial for any DIY project; understanding the ‘why’ behind each design choice ensures a cohesive and satisfying final result. Now that we’ve covered the design philosophy, let’s move on to the practical application! You can start by watching the concise video for a visual overview, followed by all the intricate details in the comprehensive tutorial below.

DIY Window Trim Video Guide

Farmhouse Window Trim DIY Tutorial: A Step-by-Step Guide

Essential First Steps for Any Window Trim Project

Regardless of the specific style of window trim you’re planning to install, the initial preparation steps are universally crucial and must always be performed in the correct sequence for optimal results:

1. Carefully Remove the Existing Molding.

This is a foundational step that should not be skipped or rushed. Removing the old trim first allows you to assess the condition of the wall around the window opening and ensures you get the most accurate measurements for your new materials. It also prevents any guesswork or potential errors that could arise from trying to measure over existing trim.

2. Precisely Measure Your Window Opening.

Once the old trim is gone, you’ll have a clean, unobstructed view of the actual window opening. This is when you can take the most accurate measurements possible. Measure both the width and height of the raw window frame. Double-check your measurements, taking them at multiple points, as older homes (and even newer ones) are rarely perfectly square. These precise measurements are absolutely essential for determining the exact amount of lumber and other materials you’ll need to purchase, preventing wasted materials or frustrating trips back to the store.

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Essential Supplies Needed for Your Farmhouse Window Trim DIY:

• Electric Miter Saw (Highly recommended for its ease, precision, and efficiency in making accurate angle cuts) or a hand saw with a miter box (A more labor-intensive but perfectly viable option for those without power tools).
• Hammer (Essential for removing old trim and for traditional nail application if not using a nail gun).
• Tape Measure (Crucial for all precise measurements).
• Small Pry Bar (Invaluable for safely and effectively removing existing trim without damaging walls).
• Pencil (For marking all your cuts and measurements).
• Pneumatic Nail Gun and a small air compressor (This combination dramatically speeds up the installation process and provides a cleaner finish) or standard finish nails to use with your hammer (A traditional and effective method, though it requires more effort and care to avoid hammer marks).
• 3-IN-ONE 100% Pneumatic Tool Oil (A critical maintenance item for pneumatic tools, ensuring longevity and optimal performance).
• Not pictured, but indispensable: Electric Jigsaw (Necessary for cutting the unique ‘L’ shape of the window sill).
• And, of course, the heart of the project: The Wood!

To give you a clearer understanding of the lumber components and how they fit together, here’s a visual representation:

Specific Window Trim Wood Needed:

• Four 1 x 6 boards: These are the main, substantial flat moldings. In reality, these boards are typically milled to approximately 5-1/2″ wide, which makes them an almost perfect match for the authentic width of our original farmhouse window examples. Ensure you purchase these in lengths suitable for your window measurements, allowing for a little extra.
• One 1 x 4 board: This will be used for the window sill, providing a solid base.
• One 1 x 2 board: This narrower piece is our special addition for the top trim, providing that subtle, refined detail.

For convenience and to minimize waste, we opted for 8-foot lengths for all our lumber pieces. Always factor in potential errors and cuts when estimating total lengths needed.

Crucial Preparation Steps Before Starting Your Installation:

• Pneumatic Tool Maintenance: If you are utilizing a pneumatic nail gun for this project (which we highly recommend for efficiency and ease), it is absolutely essential to prep it correctly. Before you begin any nailing, add a few drops of 3-IN-ONE 100% Pneumatic Tool Oil directly into the tool’s air inlet. This specialized oil serves multiple critical functions: it dissolves any gum and sludge buildup, effectively removes calcium deposits and moisture that can accumulate over time, and ultimately ensures smoother, more reliable performance. Regular oiling significantly extends the lifespan of your pneumatic tools, making this a small but vital step for any serious DIYer.

With the old molding removed, precise measurements taken, all necessary supplies gathered, and our trusty nail gun properly oiled and ready, we are now perfectly prepared to embark on the exciting process of creating a beautiful, classic farmhouse window!

Step 1: Constructing the Window Sill – The Foundation Piece

While the sill might appear to be the most intricate piece of the entire trim assembly, rest assured, it’s remarkably straightforward. This particular step truly highlights just how accessible and manageable this farmhouse window trim DIY project is!

• Measure for the Sill’s Total Length: Begin by measuring the full width. This measurement should extend from the outside edge of where the 1 x 6 side trim will eventually sit on one side of the window, all the way to the outside edge of the 1 x 6 on the opposite side. PRO TIP: To ensure pinpoint accuracy, especially in older homes where walls might not be perfectly straight, temporarily hold a 1 x 6 board in place on each side where you intend for it to be. Mark the wall with a pencil at the outer edge of each board. Then, measure the distance precisely between these two pencil marks.
• Cut the 1 x 4 to Length: Using your miter saw, cut your 1 x 4 board to the exact total length measurement you just obtained.
• Define the Sill’s Protrusion and Depth: Next, you’ll need to determine how much the sill will extend beyond the face of the vertical 1 x 6 trim pieces. A common choice is to have it flush or extend slightly, such as our 1/4″ extension. This often matches the extension of the upper vertical piece as well, creating a cohesive look. Then, measure the depth of the window well from the inside edge of your planned 1×6 placement to the actual window frame.
• Mark the ‘L’ Cut-Outs: Transfer these depth and protrusion measurements to each end of your cut 1 x 4 board. Using a pencil, mark out the ‘L’ shape on both ends. These ‘L’ cuts will allow the sill to fit snugly around the side trim pieces and extend into the window well.
• Execute the Cuts with a Jigsaw: Carefully use your electric jigsaw to cut along the lines you’ve marked on each end of the 1 x 4. Take your time to ensure clean, precise cuts.

Step 2: Securely Nailing the Sill into Place

• Test Fit and Adjust: Carefully slide your newly cut 1 x 4 sill piece into position against the bottom of the window. Ensure that the ‘L’ shaped cut-outs fit perfectly against the wall and that the sill rests flush against the window well. Make any minor adjustments or trims needed for a perfectly tight and professional fit.
• Nail the Sill: Once you are satisfied with the fit, use your pneumatic nail gun (or a hammer with finish nails, being careful to countersink them) to securely attach the 1 x 4 sill to the window frame below. Apply nails along the length of the sill, ensuring it is firmly fixed and stable.

Step 3: Attaching the Vertical Side Trim Pieces

• Measure for Side Lengths: Measure the distance from the top surface of the installed sill all the way up to the very top edge of the window opening. IMPORTANT TIP: Always measure both the left and right sides independently. It’s incredibly common in older homes (and even some newer ones!) for windows to be slightly out of square, meaning the left and right measurements might differ. Accounting for these subtle differences will ensure your trim fits perfectly and looks plumb.
• Cut the 1 x 6 Side Pieces: Using your miter saw, cut two of your 1 x 6 boards to the precise measurements you just obtained for each side.
• Attach to the Sides: Position each 1 x 6 side piece vertically, aligning its bottom edge perfectly with the top surface of the sill and its inner edge flush with the window frame. Use your nail gun to securely attach these boards to the wall studs around the window frame. Ensure they are plumb and firmly affixed.

Step 4: Installing the Top Vertical 1 x 2 Accent Piece

• Measure for the Top 1×2: Measure from the outside edge of one vertical 1 x 6 side piece to the outside edge of the other. Remember to add any desired extra overhang, such as the 1/4″ extension we opted for, to this total measurement. This piece will span across the top of your vertical side boards.
• Cut the 1 x 2 to Length: Cut your 1 x 2 board to this precise measurement using your miter saw.
• Attach the 1×2: Position the cut 1 x 2 board flat against the wall, resting on the top edges of the two vertical 1 x 6 side pieces. The narrow (1-1/2″) side of the 1×2 should face outwards, creating a subtle, refined profile. Secure it firmly with nails into the top of the side boards and into any available framing above the window.

Step 5: Finalizing the Main Top and Bottom Horizontal Boards

• Measure for Top and Bottom 1x6s: Just as with the side pieces, measure the full distance from the outside edge of one vertical 1 x 6 side piece to the outside edge of the other. Crucially, take separate measurements for both the very top (above the 1×2) and the very bottom (below the sill) to account for any slight inconsistencies in the window’s squareness.
• Cut the 1 x 6 Boards: Cut two more 1 x 6 boards to these specific top and bottom measurements.
• Nail into Place: Position the top 1 x 6 board flush against the wall, resting directly on the top edge of the 1 x 2 accent piece. Ensure it’s centered and level. Nail this board securely into the framing above the window. Then, take the remaining 1 x 6 and position it directly below the window sill, flush against the wall. Nail this board firmly into the wall studs beneath the window. These pieces complete the robust, classic farmhouse frame.

Step 6: Finishing Touches – Caulk and Paint (or Stain)

• Choose Your Finish: Now that your beautiful new trim is installed, it’s time to decide on the perfect finish. Will you paint it to match existing trim or choose a contrasting color? Or perhaps stain it to highlight the natural wood grain? Consider the overall aesthetic of your room and home.
• Prepare for Painting: For a truly seamless and professional look, caulking is indispensable. Use a high-quality paintable caulk to fill all the small gaps where the trim meets the wall, and where individual trim pieces meet each other. This step hides imperfections, seals out drafts, and creates a smooth surface for painting. Once the caulk is dry, apply a good primer to all the new wood surfaces. This ensures better paint adhesion and a more durable, even finish.
• Paint or Stain: Finally, apply your chosen paint or stain. Multiple thin coats are always better than one thick coat, providing a smoother finish and preventing drips. If painting, lightly sand between coats for an even silkier feel.

Oh, newly refurbished farmhouse window, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways your transformation has brought such joy and character:

1. You possess an undeniable authenticity, looking as though you’ve been an integral part of this farmhouse’s structure since its very inception.
2. The cost-effectiveness of this project is astounding; you were brought to life with a mere $30 investment in materials.
3. Despite your modest material cost, you exude an air of elegance and sophistication that truly looks like a million bucks.
4. The project was surprisingly quick, consuming only a couple of hours of our time, from the initial removal of the old trim to the priming of your new, beautiful surfaces.
5. You completely astonished us with your ease of installation and the dramatically positive impact you’ve had on the entire room’s ambiance and aesthetic.
6. Quite simply, I find immense pleasure and satisfaction every time my gaze falls upon you.

While it may sound a touch cheesy, every sentiment is profoundly true!

The success and beauty of this first window trim project have ignited a renewed sense of purpose and excitement. I am now eagerly anticipating the opportunity to replicate this transformation on all the other windows throughout the main floor, watching as this beloved farmhouse fixer-upper gradually, but surely, comes back to life, piece by painstaking piece, brimming with its original character and charm.

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Disclosure: I received product and/or compensation in relation to the sponsorship mentioned in this post. As always, the opinions expressed, the thoughts shared, and the projects undertaken are entirely my own. I pledge to NEVER promote anything I don’t genuinely love and believe you will find helpful and beneficial – that’s my steadfast promise to you! This post also incorporates affiliate links, which may earn a commission based on qualifying sales. Rest assured, this does not alter your purchase price in any way. Click here to read my full disclaimer and advertising disclosure for complete transparency.

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