Wood – When should I round over the edges leading to a miter joint

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I'm going to be joining 2 1×6" pieces of wood at a simple miter joint.

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However, I want the top edges to be rounded over. I'm planning to use my router and a round over bit to soften the edges, the only problem is I'm not sure if I should…

Route the pieces, cut the miter, then assemble.
Cut the miter, route the pieces, then assemble.
Cut the miter, assemble, then route the piece.

If I was only rounding over the outside edge of the piece, I'd probably route it after assembling it. Since I want to round over both top edges, I'm concerned the inside corner will not come out right if I assemble the piece before routing.

Best Answer

Route the pieces, cut the miter, then assemble. I believe that will give the best look. You could just practice all three on some scrap to see which you like.

Related Solutions

Wood – Good technique for squaring-up hardwood edges

You don't say what saw you used to cut the wood, but if you use a tenon saw you should get a cleaner cut in the first place that requires less sanding. This is because the saw has finer teeth for a smoother cut and a stiffening spine that means you get a straighter cut.

Clamping a second piece of wood to use as a guide is another alternative.

Alternatively you could use a plane to remove the excess wood - but make sure that you clamp a piece of scrap wood to the end of the plank to avoid it splitting:

------> direction of plane
+---------+---+
|         |   |
|    ^    |   | <- Scrap
|    |    |   |
|    |    |   |
  direction of grain

What’s the best way to measure for crown moulding and trim

Measure in a foot or so from one inside corner and make a mark. Then measure from the opposite corner to your mark. Add the two measurements together for the full length.

Note that this process is shown with pictures over on the blog.

Best Answer

Related Solutions

Wood – Good technique for squaring-up hardwood edges

What’s the best way to measure for crown moulding and trim

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