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How to Make a Miter Box

Contributor
By Jennifer Ketcherside
eHow Contributing Writer
(3 Ratings)

A miter box is a handy tool used to guide your handsaw when making precise cuts. Slots cut in the box at precise angles guide your saw blade to ensure a perfect cut every time. Although you can buy a miter box at any hardware store, you can also quickly make your own with scrap wood. Follow these steps to easily make a miter box.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Scrape Wood
  • Hammer
  • Nails
  • Combination Square
  • Pen
  • Handsaw
  1. Step 1

    Find three pieces of scrap wood that at are least the necessary length and height you require for your miter box. A good choice is 1-by-4 inch boards.

  2. Step 2

    Cut the three boards the same length. You can cut them any length that is useful for your project. Longer boards will accommodate more guides.

  3. Step 3

    Lay one board flat, and stand the other two boards on their long edge. Nail the two upright boards to either side of the flat board, forming a U shape.

  4. Step 4

    Measure each desired angle using a combination square and mark the cuts to be made on the miter box. You can measure any angle you need for your project, but 45-degree angles and 90-degree angles are the most common.

  5. Step 5

    Use a handsaw to carefully cut each marked angle. Cut through the sideboards to (but not through) the bottom baseboard.

  6. Step 6

    Nail small strips of wood across the top opening of the miter box, if desired, to provide additional strength.

Tips & Warnings
  • Homemade miter boxes are a great option if you are cutting unique angles or odd-size materials. You are not restricted to the standard sizes and angles of store-bought miter boxes.
  • When your miter box cuts begin to widen and wear, simply make a new box with whatever scrap wood is available.
  • The cuts made with your miter box are only as good as the first cut. Make sure you measure and cut carefully.

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