If you want to hide the rough edge of a board, you can use so-called quarter joints. These are the decorations that are normally seen in photo frames, doors and windows and around openings. The quarter joints are weak, but useful for having something that looks good and that does not have to bear excessive weight. Go to step one to get started.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Preparation
Step 1. Get the right tools for cutting and measuring
There are a couple of tools you can use depending on the material you are cutting and how it needs to be cut. Standard and basic cuts can be made with a hand saw and a frame box. More complex cuts require a circular or table saw.
For many interior solutions such as skirting boards and ceiling cornices you will not have to cut the internal corners. In these cases the quartabuono corners do not go well and tend to separate
Step 2. Determine the angle
Measure the complete change of angle. Divide it by the number of pieces and the result will be the angle at which you will have to cut. The most common measurement is 45 degrees.
Step 3. Measure the starting points
Since the cuts are at an angle, you will have one side of the wood longer than the other. You will need to remember this factor and take the measurements correctly. For example, in an internal corner piece, the size of the wall must be equal to the longest part of the wood. For an outer corner the inner part will be the same as the wall, but it will be on the shorter side.
Step 4. Measure the interspace of the corners
If you want to use as much wood as possible you will need to be able to use the scraps on every occasion. Since the piece will need to be longer on one side than it appears (as in the inside corners), you will need to be able to calculate the extra material you will need. If you are going to have a standard angle of 45 degrees, then you will need a gap at the end equal to the depth of the piece of wood.
If you don't have a 45 degree angle then you will need to do some math. Don't worry, it's easier than it looks. Use a calculator or this page to find the sine and cosine of the angle you need to cut. Then use the calculator to divide the sine by the cosine. Take the result and multiply it by the depth of the wood. The result will be the extra space you will need
Part 2 of 3: Cut the Material
Step 1. Align the saw
Set the saw at the corner you will need to cut. Follow the instructions of the tool you use, since each model is different.
Step 2. Align the wood
Place the wood on the machine so that it is inside out when possible. Make sure you always know where the long and short sides should be. Use a laser guide if you can (most modern tools have it). If you're not sure how to line up the wood, have a scrap piece on hand to try it out. Rehearsing is important.
- When cutting a photo frame, put the flat side on the cutting surface.
- When making a square cut, place the flat side against the edge or back of the cutting surface.
Step 3. Hold the wood in place with clamps
If you are not using a piece of wood long enough to hold while keeping your hands away from the saw, consider using clamps. Importantly, many people lose their fingers in these situations - be careful.
Step 4. Start the saw and lower it
There are usually buttons to press and actions to take to start and lower the saw. Follow the instructions of the tool you are using. Keep your hands off when you lower the saw and don't press too hard. Just guide it where it needs to go and let the saw cut.
Step 5. Raise it and wait for the blade to stop
Once finished you can unlock the piece and remove it.
Part 3 of 3: Combining the Material
Step 1. Use clamps
It doesn't matter which method you use to join the pieces - using clamps to hold the seam tight as it settles down is important. There are different types of clamps, depending on the type of project you are working on. Ask your local store for advice on what may be best for you.
Step 2. Use glue and nails
The easiest way to join the pieces is to glue the corners together, join them and then nail them using a nail gun. This method works best if the nails can be driven into something else, such as a door frame, as the ends won't hold well. Plan out the nails if they don't penetrate enough, then cover the hole with wood putty and paint a wood-like color.
Step 3. Use dowels
You can dig holes and insert dowels into the ends of the joints if the wood is thick enough. They can add support and make the joint stronger. Just make a hole, dip the dowel in the wood glue and join the pieces together. Use dowels of the appropriate size for the thickness of the wood.
Step 4. Use an interlocking joint
Once the ends are joined, you can try the joint. Using a saw, cut a notch in the corner of the seam, then fill it with glue and insert a triangular wedge of the correct shape and size. It's a more difficult method, but it will work great if done right.
