How to Cut a Mitered Corner on a Picture Frame
Picture frames can provide a nice accent to the picture contained inside while protecting it at the same time. You can purchase a picture frame but if you need one to fit a custom-sized print, or you enjoy doing hands-on projects, you can build your own picture frames. To do this, you must be able to make miter cuts for the corners of the frame. These cuts are made at an angle so that different sections of molding or trim can fit together to form the square for the frame. In the case of a picture frame, the cuts will be at a 45-degree angle. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Framing
- Miter box
- C-clamps
- Saw
- Safety goggles
- Framing square
Instructions
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1
Measure and mark the needed length of the frame on the outer edge of the framing piece. The inner edges will be slightly shorter as the cuts will be made diagonally inward from the top outer edge.
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2
Attach the miter box to the end of your work table with a C-clamp at each end. Skip this step if you're using a table saw with a miter gauge.
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3
Rotate the saw blade in the miter box or on the table saw so that it is set to make a 45-degree cut.
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4
Place the wood into position, lining up the cut line with the saw blade. Clamp the wood down to prevent it from slipping.
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5
Cut the wood. If you're making the cut manually, make the first cut by pulling the saw back toward you.
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Tips & Warnings
If you haven't made a miter cut before, practice on scrap wood before cutting the framing.
Check the accuracy of the miter cuts by dry-fitting two pieces of framing together inside a framing square. Look for any gaps between the boards, which will indicate that the cuts weren't exactly 45 degrees.
Wear safety goggles when sawing the framing.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
