How to Connect a Mitered Joint

Mitered joints are an attractive way to joint wood together. They conceal the end grain of the wood and create a seamless and decorative assembly. A miter is another word for an angle. In standard joints, the mitered boards that join together are at a 45-degree angle and combine to create a 90-degree angle. These joints are used for picture frames, boxes and other decorative trim applications. Mitered joints create more surface area to glue than standard butt joints; therefore gluing is an effective, sturdy and simple way to connect the joints.

Wood glue
Frame clamp
Damp rag
Fine-grit sanding pad

Instructions

- 1
  Dry fit the parts together to make sure that they fit together correctly. Lay out the mitered parts on a work surface so that the mitered edges are accessible.
- 2
  Apply a bead of wood glue to each mitered edge that you will join together. Fit the parts together so that the mitered edges are joined. Align the edges so that they are flush and press the wood together so that some glue squeezes out.
- 3
  Clamp the mitered parts together with a frame clamp. The clamp will hold the mitered joints together securely as the glue dries. Wipe off the excess glue with a damp rag. Allow the glue to dry for 24 hours.
- 4
  Remove the frame clamp from the mitered assembly. Sand the mitered assembly lightly in the same direction as the wood grain with a fine-grit sanding pad to remove any glue residue.

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