Bevel Cut Molding
Molding such as baseboards and crown molding is joined together at corners to create a seamless appearance. An installer will cut molding at a beveled angle, then make a coping cut along the shape of the design to make the joints fit exactly. The initial bevel is cut at a 45 degree angle with the aid of a miter box. Use the same tools as professional trim carpenters to install molding with seamless joints.
Instructions
1. Measure the length of the molding needed to meet another piece in a corner. The first length of molding is commonly installed into an inside corner without any shaping. The 90 degree angle at the edge of the piece is simple butted against the corner. The piece that meets it must be shaped for a joint.
2. Mark the measured length with a pencil on the bottom edge of the molding. Crown molding is cut upside down with the smaller edge at the top.
3. Secure a miter box to a work bench with a vise or C-clamp. Place the molding into a miter box with the unfinished side against the back fence and the small bottom edge facing up.
4. Line up the pencil mark with the 45 degree angle slot in the fence that places the saw at an angle to cut more off the back than the front finished side. The finished side must retain the measured length.
5. Put on safety glasses or goggles. Slip the blade of a backsaw into the slot with the teeth down. Line the blade up with the pencil mark and hold the molding firmly with your free hand. Lift the handle of the backsaw to create a cutting angle. Draw the saw to yourself slowly to start the cut, then lean on the saw as you push downward to make the rest of the cut. Saw more slowly as the cut finishes to prevent splintering.
Tags: degree angle, Bevel Molding, bottom edge, finished side, length molding