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Miter Blocks are a Great Tool for Cutting Tiny Trim

1) A simple workbench jig. This miter block makes quick work of cutting tiny trim.

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I’ve built several humidors over the years and the design I use incorporates small pieces of hardwood edging to protect the fragile veneers that cover my boxes. While you could certainly cut these pieces on a miter saw, it’s a bit overkill. For greater accuracy, I cut this joinery with a handsaw and follow-up at the shooting board.

In order to achieve accurate cuts, I use a simple miter block. Built from workshop scraps including a small sheet of MDF, some screws and glue, and a two hardwood strips, these little benchtop jigs come together super fast and last a surprisingly long time. Browse the photos above to get a sense of how I build my miter blocks.

 

Of course there’s more than one way to skin a cat. My colleague, executive art director Mike Pekovich, often uses an even simpler block. His is nothing more than a block of oak with a rabbet running along one of the long edges. The block is clamped down in his bench vise and works just as well. Be sure to check out Mike’s video blog on the subject.

A quick word on accuracy. The cuts produced on my miter blocks are generally very accurate however, I never worry if they’re off by a degree–that because I always follow up my cuts with a bit of clean-up at the shooting board. My shooting board fences are very accurate and by planing after my cuts are made, I ensure nice smooth, crisp joints.