How to Build a Mitered Corner With Wood

Miters are an attractive wood joinery technique used to form corners. They are often used for picture frames, decorative boxes and window and door trim molding. The ends of the board that form mitered corners are cut with a miter saw. Mitered corners form a 90-degree angle. Therefore, the ends of the two adjoining boards are cut at a 45-degree angle. Take your time when you cut miters so that the corner joints fit together perfectly.

Miter saw
2 boards
Sanding block, fine-grit
Wood glue
Corner clamp
Damp rag

Instructions

- 1
  Adjust the miter saw to cut a 45-degree angle by loosening the handle and turning the table until it aligns with the 45-degree mark. Tighten the handle to lock the saw in place.
- 2
  Place one of the boards flat on the table of a miter saw. To cut the board, pull the trigger and guide the saw down through the board in an even motion to complete the cut. Raise the saw and release the trigger once it has returned to the start position. Do the same for the second board.
- 3
  Sand the cut edges of the ends of the boards using a fine-grit sanding block until the ends are smooth.
- 4
  Apply a bead of wood glue to the mitered ends of each board. Press the mitered ends together to form a 90-degree angle.
- 5
  Place a corner clamp over the mitered corner assembly. Tighten the clamp and wipe off any excess glue that oozes out with a damp cloth.
- 6
  Allow the wood glue to dry for 24 hours and remove the corner clamp. Sand the miter joint with a fine-grit sanding block until the joint is seamless.

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