For a variety of trim projects, quarter round (thin and rounded moldings) can be used.
It’s an inexpensive way to make attractive trim. Home DIYers and beginners can also cut it to size.
Corners are the tricky part. Its rounded shape means that you need to measure accurately and make angled cuts so that the pieces fit together.
This is how to trim quarters for your next trim job.
What You’ll Need
When you’re in a pinch, there are tons of ways to quarter-round.
If you can, use a mitersaw. A miter saw is the fastest and most efficient way to cut, as well as the most precise.
Here’s what you need:
Step 1: Measure And Mark
As with most projects that require cutting, the first step in any project is to measure. ).
Measure the wall against which the quarter-round will be placed using your tape measure. This measurement should be transferred to the quarter-round. With your pencil, mark the quarter-round.
Be sure to measure to the outside edge and corners of the quarter-round.
Cutting Corners
Make sure to measure the angle at which quarter-round pieces will meet on corners and cut these pieces accordingly in order to ensure that they fit together.
It is very important to fit two quarter round tougher pieces at the same length. I suggest double-checking your measurements.
Step II: Make The Blade
Setting the blade at the correct angle is just as important as accurate measurements.
To use the reference line, place the quarter-round piece on the mitersaw with the cut line at the blade. For a precise cut, ensure that the back end of the quarter-round is flush with the fence.
To cut along the marked and measured line, swivel the blade or table until it is at the right angle.
Many miter saws can be lowered without having to turn it on. To ensure that your cut is at the correct angle, you can gently roll the blade around the quarter-round.
To ensure the right angle, I recommend that you make an initial cut about a quarter inch from the cut line (on either side of the quarter-round that you’ll throw away).
You will be trimming at a 45-degree angle for most trim projects. Set your miter saw to this angle.
Step 3: Make The Cut
It’s time to cut! Now turn on the mitersaw and lower the blade slowly so it cuts through the line that you have drawn.
Additional Tips
To complete many home trimming projects, you will need to use a lot of quarter-round.
It is helpful to have someone with you when cutting long pieces of quarter-round. To prevent the quarter-round from falling or moving during the cutting, have them hold the other end.
No partner? To do the same, set up some saw horses and similar objects to hold onto the long end.
To prevent movement and wiggling, clamp the quarter round to your miter saw or workbench.
Stay Safe
A relatively simple home DIY project is cutting quarter round.
However, the fact that you will be using a power instrument means that safety must be taken into consideration.
Understanding how to use the mitersaw is key. Before you start cutting, make sure to familiarize yourself with the device if you are borrowing it or renting it.
Avoid cutting small pieces of wood. A miter saw is not recommended for cutting quarter-rounds less than 30 cm in length.
When using power tools such as a mitersaw, you might consider wearing eye protection, ear protection and sturdy work gloves.
Last Thoughts
Anyone can learn how to use a miter to cut quarter-round.
Straight cuts are easy. Corner cuts, however, can be more challenging as they’re most likely to be made at a 45 degree angle.
After you’re done with your trim and molding projects, these DIY projects will give you ideas for your next home project.
