Painting woodwork next to stair carpet

[MartinBraidwood]

Hi,
I want to paint the woodwork that runs down the side of my staircase. The stair carpet is butted up to the wood, making it hard to paint without painting my carpet at the same time.

What's the best trick to paint the woodwork in this situation, that hopefully doesn't involve lifting the stair carpet? I was wondering if it would be feasible to slide masking tape down between the wood and carpet - I know this would leave a slightly less than perfect finish, but may be a good compromise between effort and finish.

Any advice greatly appreciated.

 

[emilybronte]

Yes, 2.5" masking tape, carefully applied, is your best bet if the carpet cannot be taken up. Press it down so the edge just touches the woodwork below the normal level of the pile.

Remove with care and don't leave it too long, or you may pull the paint off with it. Just as the paint is setting is a good time.

 

[MartinBraidwood]

Thanks for your reply. I'll give that a go!