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WOODWORKING

Chapter 21

Moldings and Trim

Introduction
The difference between a good woodworker and a great one is craftsmanship. The craftsman is not only
skilled but creative. He/she knows how to make something beautiful out of the ordinary, and in cabinetry
that is no exception.
As we have seen, a cabinet is nothing more than a box. It’s what you do to that box that defines it.
Adding shaped wood, known as molding and trim, to stiles and rails is one such practice of beautifying a
project.

Moldings and trim
Below is a picture of a cabinet loaded with molding and trim. Before you say, “I could never do anything that
beautiful,” don’t forget that a cabinet is nothing more than a box. Once the box is built, you can create beautiful
masterpieces simply by adding, or layering, molding and trim. Can you identify in the cabinet below where the
carcass ends and the beautifying begins?

As you can see, the stile and the rail are both behind the
molding and trim. Remember, the face frame (made up of the
stiles and rails) is a part of the box, or carcass. Everything you
see above was attached to a simple box, a box any novice
cabinetmaker can build. Just look at how the added molding
enhances the beauty of the cabinet. And guess what? It’s not
that difficult. It just takes a little skill and a great imagination.
So, if you want to do something amazing with your next box
and case project, take the time to add molding and trim and you
will be pleased with the results.
Oh, and before you say, “I can never make trim like that.”
Think again. Such trim and molding are prefabricated and can
be purchased at most hardware stores.

Rail

Stile

Crown molding

Rope trim

Shelf face trimming

Rosette mounted on a block

Fluted trim

Shelf face trimming

Unit V: Cabinetry Craftsmanship