New Window Trim

Tools:

miter saw
hand saw
pencil
drill
hammer
nail set
combination square
putty knife
safety glasses
molding
nails
caulk
putty

1. This method doesn't involve so much measuring as it does fitting. Begin by marking points around the window. Leave about 1/4-inch around the casing to create a reveal and add depth (figure A).

2. Trim away pieces of the center trim if necessary using a handsaw (figure B).

3. Use a combination square to mark the line of the reveal on the wall (figure C).

4. Connect the lines around the window to find the intersection for the miter joints at each of the four corners.

5. Cut a 45-degree miter on one end of a piece of trim using the miter saw. Be sure to wear safety glasses when using power tools. Take the piece inside and line up the cut end with markings (figure D).

6. Now, instead of measuring just mark where to make the miter cut on the other end with a pencil (figure E). Draw a line in the direction of the miter cut to avoid confusion when you get back to the saw.

7. Cut the other end and attach trim to wall with nails. Use the nail set to drive the head below the surface, and fill in the hole with putty.

8. Cut a miter on another piece of molding so it lines up with the first piece, then repeat process of marking the molding for the second cut. Continue until window trim is complete (figure F).