How to Cope or Cut Cove Molding

Cutting coving, especially the corners, is slightly trickier than cutting regular moldings that are flat against ceilings or walls. This is because a coving is arched in a quarter circle, which gives more dimension but a softer appearance than regular crown molding, which is stiffer in appearance. The rounded edges subtly accentuate ceilings and corners, adding flair to a plain wall. Coving can be cut using a miter box and saw.

Things You'll Need

• Coving
• Miter box
• Saw

Instructions

1. Place the coving in a miter box, making sure that the edges are flush against the miter box.

2. Cut the coving at a 90-degree angle for a straight cut, using the center slots.

3. Angle the saw at a 45-degree angle, pointing to the right. Use the lower left slot and the upper right slot to cut the coving. Use the right side of the cut piece for internal right corners and the left side for external left corners.

4. Angle the saw at a 45-degree angle, pointing to the left. Use the lower right slot and the upper left slot to cut the coving. Use the right side of the cut piece for the external right corners and the left side for internal left corners.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you measure carefully before you cut. The old saying "Measure twice, cut once" is always good advice.

• When cutting the coving, do not exert too much pressure as the coving may break.

• Be sure to keep fingers away from the saw's blade when cutting.

References

• Lets-Do-DIY.com: Fixing Coving and Cornices