How to Miter Trim Molding

Miter Saw

Mastering the task of mitering trim work is easily achieved by understanding a few simple techniques and tools needed to perform the work. Completing this task requires the use of a miter saw, preferably an electric one. An electric miter saw provides a smoother and more precise cut than a hand miter box. Knowing what angle to cut, and how one goes about it, is simplified with the use of an electronic angle device. This device can replace the protractor for finding the proper angle; however, learning the angle finding method by calculation is an important skill to know.

Things You'll Need

• Sliding t-bevel
• Pencil
• Protractor
• Saw horses
• Plywood work surface
• Miter saw
• Fine tooth miter saw blade
• Trim molding

Instructions

1. Set up the saw horses and place the plywood work surface flat on the top of the sawhorses creating a work table.

2. Position the miter saw on top of the plywood work surface.

3. Use the sliding t-bevel to find the angle of the corner of the object on which you are going to install the molding by placing the t-bevel on, or in the corner, pushing the sides of the sliding t-bevel tight against the surface, then locking t- bevel by turning the wing nut clockwise.

4. Lay the sliding t-bevel on the edge of the plywood work surface, with the blade lying flat on the plywood, and mark a line along the blade of the sliding t-bevel with the pencil.

5. Place the protractor on the plywood with the flat side aligned flush with the edge of the plywood and center the middle mark (or zero) of the protractor on the pencil mark on the plywood

6. Read the degrees where the pencil mark intersects on the protractor at the arched top of the protractor and write the degree on the plywood.

7. Divide the number written on the plywood by 2. The result is the angle in which to set the miter saw to.

8. Adjust the miter saw table to the proper angle side and lock the table down on the determined angle.

9. Place the trim molding onto the table of the miter saw, while pushing it tight to the fence, and cut the trim molding.

10. Repeat these steps for any other objects that you will be cutting trim molding.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to have sharp miter saw blade to enable you to cut the miters with precisely.

• If you are not familiar with using an electric miter saw, read the operators manual and follow the safety precautions listed in it. Always use the proper safety equipment when using a miter saw, and keep hands and fingers away from the blade.

References

• Kelleher Corporation: How to Mitre Mouldings
• Better Homes and Gardens: Basic Guide to Working With Molding