Hammer Check

Hammer Check

by | Jan 1, 2017 | Carpentry, Molding & Trim, Tips

If you will be working in close quarters attaching new molding to walls or ceilings with finishing nails, first check out your hammer handle. Inevitably the handle end will hit the adjacent surface in spots. Either use a new hammer, clean up the handle of an older...
Hammer Check

Saving Trim

by | Jan 1, 2017 | Carpentry, Molding & Trim, Tips

To save trim during remodeling, use two small, flat prybars. Slide the thin end of one behind the trim, pull, then insert the second in the space that opens up. Alternate pulling each bar to inch the trim off. If finishing nails protrude from the back, use slip-jaw...
Hammer Check

DIY Molding

by | Jan 1, 2017 | Carpentry, Molding & Trim, Tips

If you are frustrated with the choices of molding styles at the lumberyard, make your own. A 15-piece molding head set for radial or tablesaws costing less than $60 can provide endless options. If the stock cutters don’t meet your needs, you can easily re-grind...
Hammer Check

Storing Dowels

by | Jan 1, 2017 | Carpentry, Molding & Trim, Tips

To store dowels, molding and the like neatly off the floor in your shop, you can use empty 3-lb. coffee cans. Attach one can with a bottom 6 in. off the floor. Then attach another with both ends cut out about 2 ft. above it. Slide material down through it into the...
Hammer Check

Decorative Molding

by | Jan 1, 2017 | Carpentry, Molding & Trim, Tips

A way to get a good fit when installing decorative molding is to install the first piece with a square end. Then cut the second piece at a 45-degree angle in a miter box or saw to expose the profile. Use a coping saw and follow the edge of the profile, under-cutting...