How to Cut Crown Molding

Crown molding is a beautiful, decorative framework that is used to accent any room where the ceiling meets the top of the wall. You mainly will see crown molding in a living room or a kitchen, however some people choose to put it in their bedrooms to give it that finished look. A year ago, I decided I wanted to continue the crown molding theme in my house into my bedroom and I am here now to offer you my advice so you will not be in the dark like I was.

Crown molding material comes in different types from wood, plastic to even foam. No matter what type you plan on using make sure you have complete concentration and precise work done. The smallest error will cause your crown molding cuts to look very uneven and will show sloppy work.

Step One
Again I repeat myself on this, make sure you are able to devote your complete concentration while cutting your crown molding. If you need to take a break, do so and then come back with a fresh eye. You also need to make sure you have a steady hand, so if you are a little shaky on this, have someone you know do this for you!

Step Two
Take the measurements of the walls you will add crown molding to. Make sure you get the exact measurements. If you need to double check yourself, go ahead, and also another tip is to use multiple sizes of tape measures to insure the exact cut.

There is a ton of software on-line (of course for purchase) and detailed spreadsheets that will give you the exact measure of any angle you will need.

Step Three
When measuring where two walls meet, use an adjustable protractor for those angles. Always use a miter angle calculator to determine miter and bevel angles.

Step Four
Place the crown molding onto a miter saw. Place the ceiling edge of the crown molding (the part of the crown molding that will go against the ceiling) firmly against the base of the saw.

Step Five
Next, place the wall edge of the crown molding (the part of the crown molding that goes against the wall) against the saw fence.

Step Six
Push the crown molding through the miter saw. Keep the crown molding firmly in the saw and go slow. If you do not this will result in unevenness on the crown molding and imprecise cut as well. I can not tell you exactly how to cut the crown molding at this point because each miter saw, either is a straight miter saw or a compound one, has a different method of cutting. Always refer to the owners manual for this part of the process.

If you are telling yourself right now you do not own a miter saw, just check out Lowe's, Home Depot or any local hardware store for your purchase of one, or either ask them on their renting policy. Also another big tip is to ask for any help that you possible can when it comes to getting trained on how to use a miter saw. Most of these stores will offer free workshops to allow you to test your skills before jumping into this project. Have fun and the main step again is to stay calm and go slow!