i prefer to apply one coat of the finial paint or other finish to any base, trim, or moldings prior to installation. then jsut fill the nail holes, smoothe the filler and spot prime the filler. after caulking any seams, i then apply the final coat of paint. in this manner, you are painting on a support surface and no looking up until the final finish coat. i use an old slab door on saw horses for the painting, makes a very good table :<)