Usually a gloss paint is the best choice for painting architraves. Whether your choose an oil based or water based gloss is up to you.

Do you paint architraves or walls first?

Before painting architraves and skirtings, use an oil-based primer/undercoat, to allow paint to adhere to timber and varnish. Now you're ready to add colour. Always paint ceilings before walls and start both by 'cutting in' – use a brush to paint corners, cornices and anywhere a roller can't reach.

What is the best paint to use on skirting boards?