Make a Table Saw Miter Jig for Small Molding
Cutting accurate miters on the table saw can be challenging, especially when you're working with small, delicate pieces of molding.
Narrow moldings can be difficult to hold securely, and their thin profiles may flex during the cut. Add the possibility of chipout, and getting a clean, tight-fitting miter becomes even more difficult.
The solution is a simple shop-made miter jig that supports the molding from below and behind, making it easier to position the workpiece and produce accurate cuts.
Build a Simple Miter Sled
The jig consists of just three pieces: a 1⁄4" hardboard platform and two hardwood cleats.
The shorter front cleat stiffens the platform, while the taller rear cleat serves as a fence to support the molding during the cut.
Both cleats are glued to the hardboard platform.
The completed sled attaches to your table saw's miter gauge. I prefer to clamp it in place, but you can also fasten it with screws.
Once the sled is installed, make an initial cut through the platform to create a zero-clearance kerf.
This kerf becomes a handy reference for aligning your layout marks with the saw blade.
Make Accurate Miter Cuts
Using the sled is straightforward.
First, set the miter gauge to the required angle and position the molding against the rear fence.
Align your layout mark with the kerf in the hardboard platform. Then, keeping the workpiece firmly supported, guide the sled through the blade.
After completing the cut, move the molding clear of the blade before returning the sled to the starting position. Wait for the blade to stop if necessary.
Whenever possible, I like to orient the miter gauge and sled so the working end angles back toward me. This often provides a better view of the layout mark and makes positioning the molding easier.
Not every cut allows this arrangement, but it's worth considering when setting up the jig.
WOODSMITH TIP: Keep Chipout on the Hidden Side. Most moldings have a decorative face and a hidden surface that won't be visible after assembly. Whenever possible, orient the molding so the blade exits through the hidden side. That way, any minor chipout is less likely to show on the finished project.
Better Support for Delicate Molding
The biggest advantage of this jig is the support it provides.
The hardboard platform supports the molding from below, while the hardwood fence keeps it aligned during the cut. Together, they help reduce movement and minimize chipping.
And because the saw kerf provides an accurate reference, it's easy to line up the next cut without repeatedly measuring the distance to the blade.
For picture frames, decorative trim, and other projects that use small moldings, this table saw miter sled is a simple accessory that can make precision work easier.
Build Better Picture Frames
A good miter jig makes cutting small molding easier, but there's more than one way to build a great-looking picture frame.
Explore our woodworking picture frame projects and techniques for making clean joints, assembling frames, and adding decorative details.
EXPLORE PICTURE FRAME PROJECTS → Accurate Miters Are Just the Beginning
