In this article, we are going to create custom baseboards that look high-end without breaking the bank. By using budget-friendly materials and little DIY know-how.
When I was doing my bathroom makeover, I had my heart set on these bigger, taller baseboards to really make the space pop. I found the perfect style at Lowe’s, but when I saw the price tag, it was out of my budget—even for my tiny bathroom!
I remember sitting down and breaking down the cost and just thinking, “There has to be a better way.”
That’s when I got creative and started looking at individual boards instead. I ended up finding three separate pieces that, when I pieced them together, looked almost identical to the high-end baseboards I wanted.
The best part? It cost me a fraction of what I would have spent on the original ones. Plus, the custom baseboards were almost an inch taller! It was one of those DIY wins that made the whole project feel even more satisfying!
Make sure to check prices when recreating these baseboards. The prices of lumber are all over the place now a days and one day they are up and another they are down!
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Tools & Supply List for Custom Baseboards
Supply List
- 1-in x 6-in x 8-ft Primed Spruce Pine Fir Common Board
- 11/16-in x 1-3/8-in x 8-ft Traditional Primed Pine Base Cap Moulding
- Quarter Round Moulding
- Paint Of Your Choice- I used Retreat from Sherwin Williams
- Caulk & Wood Filler
Recommended Tools List
- Miter Saw
- Pin Nailer & Nails
- Brad Nailer & Nails
- Measuring Tape
- Paint Brush
- Caulk Gun
- Level
Step-by-Step Tutorial for Piecing Together Custom Baseboards
1. Measure Your Space & Cut Boards
First things first, grab your tape measure and get the exact measurements of your walls. Trust me, you don’t want to eyeball this part, it’s so important to be accurate so everything fits together perfectly.
Write down your measurements as you go, and double-check them to avoid any headaches later!
Now, it’s time to cut your boards. You’ll want clean straight cuts or if in a corner, miter cuts, so the pieces fit together nicely. If you’re unsure do a practice cut on a scrap piece of wood first. Once you’re ready, cut each of your three boards to match the measurements of your wall.
2. Start with the Biggest Board First
Take the bottom piece (this will be your tallest board) and line it up against the wall. Use a level to make sure it’s nice and straight, then secure it with your brad nailer.
This is the only board that I used my brad nailer on. The brad nails will secure your board the best.
3. Add Your Last Two Boards
Next, you will want to install your top piece and then your quarter round piece at the bottom. To install these boards I used my pin nailer.
A pin nailer is a type of nail gun that shoots very small, thin nails, usually 23-gauge, without a head. These nails are so tiny that they leave almost no visible holes, making them perfect for delicate trim work where you don’t want to see large nail holes.
It’s a go-to tool when you want a clean, nearly invisible finish!
If you don’t have a pin nailer thats okay! You can use your brad nailer which I have done in the past before I got my pin nailer. Just know that you will have to fill the nail holes afterward.
Now step back and admire your handiwork—you’ve just built a custom baseboard!
Painting Custom Baseboards
Now that your baseboard is up, it’s time to give it that professional, polished finish with paint. Grab your favorite trim paint, whether that is Sherwin Williams Emerald Trim paint or Insl-x Cabinet Paint. I always recommend a high-quality, semi-gloss or satin finish for baseboards because it’s durable and easy to clean.
When it comes to choosing the right paint color, think about the overall feel of the space. If you’re going for a crisp, clean look, a bright white or soft neutral is always a classic choice.
But don’t be afraid to have fun with color! A bold trim can really add character to a room. I love a moody, deep color in smaller spaces like powder rooms—it instantly elevates the whole vibe.
If you need help choosing the best paint for your trim or figuring out the perfect finish, be sure to check out some of my previous articles where I dive deeper into these topics. I’ve written all about the best trim paints and paint finishes for different rooms, so head over there for more tips on creating a space that truly shines.
Final Thoughts On Custom Baseboards
And there you have it a beautiful, custom baseboard at a fraction of the cost! It’s amazing how a little creativity and some DIY spirit can completely transform a space. Whether you’re tackling a small bathroom or sprucing up an entire room, piecing together your own baseboard is such a rewarding project.
Plus, you get that high-end look without the high-end price tag.
I hope this guide gives you the confidence to try it yourself! Remember, even if you’re new to DIY, with a little patience, you can achieve amazing results. Don’t forget to check out my other posts for even more tips and tricks on painting, trim, and creating custom finishes that will make your home feel uniquely yours.
Happy building!
[Safety is of great importance when working on DIY projects. Always follow proper safety guidelines, wear appropriate personal protective equipment, and adhere to local building codes and regulations. READ MY FULL DISCLAIMER HERE.]
