Whenever 1 trim out a door or a window, I first attach the head casing, cut to the finished length. Then I make the miter cut on each leg (side casing) and check the miters for fit. At this point each leg is still about 1/2 in. too long. Instead of trying to measure the exact length, I turn the trim upside-down, with the point of the miter resting on the floor (or window stool). Making sure the trim is lined up with my reveal marks, I strike a line on the trim even with the top of the head casing. Then I cut the leg square, leaving the line, and the trim fits tightly every time. This method is helpful to apprentices because they can get clean and accurate results fast, while learning how to use their tools.
Patrick D. Rabbitt, Greenwich, CT
