How to use a mitre box

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Step 1 – Secure mitre box

Secure the mitre box to a work table with clamps or permanently with screws.

Step 2 – Determine angle

Determine the correct angle for the cut and choose the correct saw guide slot on the mitre box accordingly.

Step 3 – Slide workpiece into box

Slide the workpiece into the box and line the cutting point up with the appropriate angled slots.

Hold the wood steady or clamp it into the box using the clamping system provided.

Step 4 – Place saw in slot

Place the saw into the correct slot on both sides of the box, spanning the width of the workpiece.

Step 5 – Saw downward

Saw downwards with firm but moderate pressure. Allow the saw to do the work for you.

Step 6 – Avoid drifting

Keep the saw from drifting out of the saw guides, especially with an inexpensive plastic box. It is easy to cut into the plastic instead of the wood if you lose track of where the saw blade is.

Step 7 – Continue to cut

Continue to cut until the workpiece is completely sawn through.

Tips when using a mitre box and mitre block

• Clamp the wood to keep it from moving as it is being cut.

• Use a wooden spacer to prop up pieces such as coving that might need to be cut on an angle.

• Make depth-stops by clamping a strip of wood to the saw blade so that cuts are made to the desired depth in the workpiece.

• If the saw sticks frequently, rub the end of a candle over the saw blade. The candle wax will allow you to saw smoothly.