Cutting Corners: Miters Spruce Up Woodworking Projects
These basic woodworking cuts add another dimension to simple corners
We know a lot of woodworking boils down to making boxes, but it's how those boxes vary that makes projects interesting.
One very simple way that I suggest beginning woodworkers add interest to easy project designs is to cut a miter on corners. This step adds very little time to a project, but makes a huge difference in the look.
I usually just work in a 45-degree cut, which is easiest to make because you can mark the cut line with a speed square and make the cut with a simple handsaw. But you're not limited to this angle. With a miter saw you can change it up and alter the angle.
One very simple way that I suggest beginning woodworkers add interest to easy project designs is to cut a miter on corners. This step adds very little time to a project, but makes a huge difference in the look.
I usually just work in a 45-degree cut, which is easiest to make because you can mark the cut line with a speed square and make the cut with a simple handsaw. But you're not limited to this angle. With a miter saw you can change it up and alter the angle.
On this bench project, I cut 45-degree miters on the corners of the seat to soften the ends and add interest.
Here you can see how different a corner can look by changing the angle of the miter cut.
A 45-degree cut creates a longer slope and can give the impression that the part you're working with is taller. A 30-degree cut and 15-degree cut add detail, but make the part look broader.
However, even with a 45-degree cut you can vary the look by changing the distance from the edge that you start the cut. Just remember that with a 45-degree angle, the cut will be the same distance horizontally and vertically. This can effect functionality, so plan carefully.
A 45-degree cut creates a longer slope and can give the impression that the part you're working with is taller. A 30-degree cut and 15-degree cut add detail, but make the part look broader.
However, even with a 45-degree cut you can vary the look by changing the distance from the edge that you start the cut. Just remember that with a 45-degree angle, the cut will be the same distance horizontally and vertically. This can effect functionality, so plan carefully.
This harvest tote features large miters on the ends primarily to create more space and to keep from hitting the sharp corners when placing items in the tote or taking them out. It's also far more attractive than 90-degree corners.
This stand project has mitered corners on both the lip and the back. I added this simply to dress up what otherwise would have been a boxy and drab-looking project. It's oversized, so the corners on the back do not detract from the function of the project.
For this message center project, I cut the miters primarily to soften the corners. They also add another shadow line that's pleasing to the eye.
Beginning woodworkers: What is your favorite finishing detail?
Beginning woodworkers: What is your favorite finishing detail?