I need to make two 2" gaps in already-install trim / quarter round to install mounting brackets for blinds.
How best to make these cuts?
Refer to red boxes in this photo:
This is an inside tight install of blinds where the depth of the window sill (just above the two red boxes) is too shallow by 1/4"-1/2" for the mounting bracket, required minimum depth is 3/4", and at that would leave the bracket and blinds protruding beyond flush. I want to install as deep as practical to match the two other windows (not shown) where the inside tight install has blinds just flush with edge of sill.
I can't do an outside install of blinds due to ceiling bulkhead on right, and for aesthetic consistency with the other two windows (not shown).
Best Answer
The ideal device for cutting a close fit molding like this is an oscillating tool with a wood cutting blade. Here is a picture of the type of saw I am talking about with red arrow pointing to blade type for your application:
(Picture Source: https://www.lowes.com/pl/Rotary-tools-oscillating-tools-Power-tools-Tools/4294607824)
It may be possible for you to rent one of these tools if you do not already own one. Alternatively the molding can be cut using a hammer and very sharp wood chisel.
From looking at your picture it looks like the molding is paint locked in place so it may not be necessary to nail the remaining molding after you cut out the two slots. However you may want to be proactive and nail the ends of the molding near where the cuts will be made before doing any cutting. This step would be particularly valid if using the hammer and chisel cutting method because the pounding could dislodge the paint lock on the molding edge.