Coping Crown Molding

Our Expert

Moldings are typically mitered as they intersect. However, if inside corners are mitered they tend to open up and reveal an unsightly gap. When installing crown molding a better option is to cope the inside corners.

Coping a crown molding can be a bit tedious but the results are well worth it because when it is skillfully done the joint appears seamless.

When coping a crown molding only one half of the joint is coped. The second half of the joint simply butts to the adjacent wall. To cut a smooth, tight-fitting cope begin by mitering the molding as you normally would.

Remember, when mitering crown molding the stock is positioned upside-down on the saw. 

For a smooth, accurate cut the Amana Tool miter blade no MS10600 is a great choice. This blade is specially designed for creating clean, crisp cuts with a miter saw.

Once you've mitered the end of the molding you're ready to cut the cope. The miter line on the face of the molding is the layout line for the coping saw.

Secure the molding in a vise and carefully undercut the miter to create the cope. Afterwards, you may need to smooth the saw cut with a small file.