diy trim Archives - A Dabbled Dwelling

I finished the coffered ceiling in this room and the windows just felt so bare, it was time to trim them out. With clean lines and timeless charm, Craftsman-style window casing adds architectural interest and instantly makes your home feel more custom. The best part? You can create this look using just a few basic boards: 1x4s, 1x6s, and 1x2s.

Whether you’re updating one window or giving your whole home a trim refresh, this project is beginner-friendly and totally doable in a weekend. Let’s break it down step by step!

Get Started on Your Easy Craftsman Trim

Start by measuring your window to determine the length of each piece. You’ll need two vertical 1x4s for the side casings, a 1×6 for the sill, another 1×6 for the apron (the piece just below the sill), a 1×6 for the head casing across the top, and finally, a 1×2 to sit flat along the very top as a decorative cap. Begin by installing the sill—cut your 1×6 so that it extends 1–1.5 inches beyond the vertical trim pieces on either side. Attach it securely and make sure it sits level, as everything else will build off of it.

Next, install the side casings by cutting two 1x4s to run from the top of the sill to just above the window. Nail them in place using a level to keep everything straight. Then attach the apron—a horizontal 1×6—directly underneath the sill, aligning it with the outer edges of the side trim. Now you’re ready for the top. Cut a 1×6 to serve as the head casing, letting it overhang slightly beyond the side trim for a more finished look. Finally, place a 1×2 flat on top of the 1×6 to serve as a cap, again allowing for a small overhang on each end to complete that classic Craftsman profile.

Once everything is installed, fill the nail holes with wood filler and caulk any gaps for a seamless finish. Lightly sand all surfaces to prep for paint or stain. A crisp white paint gives it a clean, traditional look, while a rich wood stain adds warmth and character. Either way, this easy trim project turns plain windows into beautiful focal points that feel both polished and timeless.

Easiest Window Trim Ever

Craftsman-style window trim is a satisfying weekend project that adds major visual appeal without a major cost. With just a few boards and some basic tools, you can create a high-impact, designer-worthy detail that looks like it’s always been there. I mean, just check out the playroom!

New Window Sills and Trim Are Easier Than You Think

I decided to frame my windows to help them have more dimension and to appear bigger. In order to start with a blank slate I used a knife to cut the caulk around the windowsills and apron (the piece of moulding under the window sill). Then I used a pry bar to remove them from the wall. I like to use the same boards for window trim that I use for door trim. Usually I go with pre-primed pine and I use 1x4s for the sides and the apron. I opt for a 1×5 across the top with a 1×2 laying flat on top of that. For the window sill I use an additional 1×5.

Woman scores caulk to remove window sill

Woman uses pry bar and hammer to remove window sill

I measure the windows and cut the trim pieces accordingly. For the top and bottom pieces I make sure to account for the 1x4s on the sides and add that to the length I cut the board. When cutting the window sill I use my jigsaw to cut out the corners where the window sill will extend past the corner in the front. When everything is cut I start putting up the trim using my nail gun. Even the window sill gets nailed down so it is secure. Then I caulk all of the seams where wood meets wood and where wood meets the wall. It gives it a seamless finish. I fill the nail holes with wood filler so that it can be sanded smooth for paint. I painted these window frames a creamy contrast to the walls, White Mocha by Behr.