Molding is a strip of decorative material that covers the edges where walls meet ceilings, floors, or doorways. If you look closely at where your bedroom wall meets the floor, you'll probably see a strip of painted wood running along the base: that's molding, specifically called baseboard or base molding. The molding around doorways is called trim or casing, and the molding where walls meet ceilings is crown molding.

Molding serves two purposes. Practically, it covers up the gaps and rough edges where two surfaces join, making rooms look finished and neat. Decoratively, it adds style and character to a space. Simple, flat molding creates a clean, modern look, while elaborate molding with curves and details makes a room feel fancier and more traditional.

Molding is shaped wood, plaster, or plastic, formed into decorative patterns. Craftsmen create molding by cutting or pressing the material into specific designs. In older, fancy buildings, you might see incredibly detailed crown molding with flowers, leaves, or geometric patterns carved into it. In newer homes, molding tends to be simpler but still serves that important job of making rooms look complete and polished.