Directions for Making a Mitered Edge

Mitered edges allow wood and wood composites to be joined to create nearly invisible corner seams. A 45-degree angle is the most common, with two 45-degree angles creating a 90-degree angle, or square corner. One of the simplest ways to make consistent, crisp mitered edges is with a table saw. Most saws will cut up to a 45-degree angle.

Table saw
Hardwood lumber
C clamps

Instructions

- 1
  Put on protective gear to cover your eyes and ears before starting the saw. Locate the bevel adjustment on the front of the saw body under the table. Twist the center knob on the adjustment wheel counterclockwise to release it. Turn the wheel to adjust the bevel until the indicator arrow is aligned with the proper angle on the miter gauge. Twist the center knob clockwise to lock it in place.
- 2
  Locate the height adjustment on the side of the saw. Turn the center knob counterclockwise to release the main wheel and turn it until the blade is the same height above the table as the material is thick. Twist the center knob clockwise to tighten it in place.
- 3
  Clamp a piece of hardwood lumber to the inside face of the table saw fence with C clamps. Set the clamps above the thickness of the material so that they will not interfere as you push it through. Adjust the fence toward the blade, until it grazes the tips of the blade teeth. Lock it in place.
- 4
  Start the saw and position the material with the edge you wish to miter against the fence. Press it firmly down to the table and push it through the blade with the edge riding against the fence. Stand clear of the triangular strip that the saw cuts. It will push it out, but will slide gently, as long as you do not push against it, causing it to bind.
- 5
  Push the piece all the way through to complete the cut and turn the saw off. Allow the blade to stop turning before attempting to retrieve the mitered piece.

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