Applying molding to a project adds detail to and softens transitions on furniture projects. And often, the profile of the molding helps define the style of the project. Since the molding attracts so much attention, you want to make sure it’s installed right. That usually boils down to getting tight-fitting mitered corners.
Even with careful cutting, a miter joint may not close tightly. If you find an open joint line, don’t worry. The solution is a simple sanding block. The key is knowing where to sand. You want to remove just enough material from where the joint is tight until the gap closes.
To do this, first darken the face with a pencil. This helps you monitor your progress. Then drag the face across a sanding block held in a vise. Here, you’re sanding only where the joint is tight. After a couple of strokes it should look like the inset photo. This leaves a slightly faceted face. To smooth it out, remark the face and make a few more passes to create a flat surface.
