Crown molding has become a popular way to enhance the appearance of the home, office or shop. The selection of various shapes and finishes is large and the design of a pleasing combination can range from simple to elaborate. However, the way to cut and install crown molding is not necessarily an easy task. That is why I have prepared this outline to help those who want to tackle the job for the first time, as well as for those who have worked with crown before but need a means of making the necessary calculations for the project. 
This guide consists of several topics:  (click on any of the following)    

• Part 1 Crown Molding on Horizontal Ceilings

• Part 2 Additional Features

• Part 3  Crown Molding on Vaulted Ceilings

• Part 4  Special Fixtures and Tools

• Part 5  Compound Angle Cutting

• Excel Spreadsheets for Calculating Angles

Part 1 describes the basics of cutting and installing crown molding on walls and ceilings that are the standard, flat surfaces that meet at right angles. It is the most common type. However, it does include situations where the molding makes a vertical turn should the crown have to go around a beam or other vertical surface.

Part 2 shows some additional ways that crown molding can be installed. It describes ways of going around obstacles or around rounded corners. It shows several ways that crown can be stopped or ended, or how two types of molding can intersect.

Part 3 deals with ceilings that slope up or down (also known as cathedral ceilings). Installing crown molding on vaulted ceilings can be very tricky especially when outside corners are encountered. I present four different techniques that can be used.

Part 4 shows the design of several fixtures and tools I have made to help me with these projects.

Part 5 goes into more detail about the general case of cutting wood at compound angles. This includes examples of multi sided boxes with sloping sides.

Finally the Excel spreadsheets that I developed to make the various calculations of the miter and bevel angles for the miter saw. The spreadsheets not only performs calculations with input of the user, but show how this applies to the different situations.

 

Disclaimer: The information in this document has been provided to you free of charge and for your consideration only. The author has prepared the information in good faith and believes it to be correct and helpful. However, he takes no responsibility for anyone misusing the data, spreadsheets, suggestions or any other information contained herein. The reader is advised to take every precaution and apply all safety steps recommended by the manufacturer for the use of saws and other tools referenced herein.

Please direct any questions or comments to sbrentjes@comcast.net.