Last Updated 19th April 2006

This page provides a summary of how best to use the mitre saw and the mitre vices that I recommend to cut and assemble your frames. Both of these tools can be purchased through this website. Please follow the link Tools For Sale for further details.

USEFUL TIPS FOR FRAME CUTTING

(1) If buying your own mitre saw, buy the black one NOT the blue one as it has a better clamping system

(2) A 24 teeth per inch (T.P.I.) blade is recommended as it gives the best cut
Such a blade will cost app. £8.00

(3) Always allow 1/8” extra length when cutting frames, e.g. if the mount measures 12” X 10” then cut the frame 12 1/8” X 10 1/8”

(4) Cut all the angles one way first then turn the saw round for the opposite angle

(5) Cut the long side first, then if any mistakes occur this can then be used for the short side.

(6) Be careful with the first few strokes of the saw blade so as not to splinter the top edge of the material.

(7) Don’t let the saw drop onto the top of the moulding

(8) Make sure the saw will stop before it cuts into the aluminium casting.

(9) Do not crush the rebate of the moulding with the clamps.

(10) Measure it twice - cut it once

(11) Mind your fingers!

USEFUL TIPS FOR MITRE ASSEMBLY

(1) Use white P.V.A or resin ‘W’ glue

(2) Use 19 gauge panel pins

(3) Drilling the holes first will make assembly of the frame easier

(4) Drill the pilot holes with the same gauge panel pin to be used in assembly. Do not use a drill bit for this

(5) Protect the moulding in the mitre vice with scraps of mountboard.

(6) Always join one short length to one long length.

(7) Make sure each pair of long and short lengths are of the opposite hand, e.g.
long length, right hand - short length, left hand.

(8) Cut heads of nails off with pincers if they are too big and will look unsightly

(9) Leave the mitre in the vice overnight, once nailed, to allow the glue to dry thoroughly

 

The mitre vice for sale through my classes and this site