I want to replace the generic colonial posts on my porches with square tapered columns on top of brick bases, in the Arts and Crafts style. How do I set up my table saw to get a tapered, mitered cut?
Thanks!
Karl Kaminski
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I'm not a joiner, but my visualization of a tapered, square post does not suggest the mitered angles change pitch through the length of the taper.
Therefore (unless I'm wrong), setting the tablesaw to the required angle - still 45-degrees - and running the piece using a taper jig ought to work.
If the posts are going to be painted anyhow, consider eliminating the miter, and just doweling or biscutting the joints. Or join the edges with a running rabbet.
-TJ
I don't know what angles you would need. However, it was mentioned to me that miter corners on wood columns would be a bad thing. The problem seems to be due to wood movement over long joints. Over time, cracks would appear.
I know that doesn't answer your question directly but it does give an argument for not using the mitered corner. Personally, I think the mitered corners are sharp looking. I would love to see your results if you take that route.
For a true arts and crafts column, you just want a taper, not a miter. Two sides will have a slight reveal.
Aaron
Thanks for the suggestions! You saved me a lot of work (I've got 10 to build)- I'll leave a reveal and biscuit the panels together.
Karl