How to Install Wainscoting on Angles (Staircase Renovation Episode 1)

The process of installing wainscoting starts with selecting the material. I've used 1/2 inch material for the frames and 1/4 inch material for the panels. The inside of the wainscoting panels is trimmed out with panel mould.

I install the wainscoting frames first, which defines the shape of the space. I then cut a panel to fit loose inside the frames. Once the panel is in place, I sketch out a drawing of the wainscoting panels so I can write down all the measurements. This is a time saver as I can take the drawing into the woodshop and cut all the parts in a batch.

The most challenging angles to cut are the ones that are more than 45 degrees as most miter saws can only cut 45 degrees. To overcome this, I cut a 45 degree panel to use as an auxiliary fence. I then do the math to subtract 45 degrees from the angle I need and set the miter saw (e.g., to cut 66 degrees, subtract 45, which is 21 - set the saw to 21 degrees). This can be a dangerous cut if not clamping down the parts, especially if the panel mould is wide material, so ensure you're trained and comfortable with this type of saw operation to avoid an injury.

Once the parts are mitered to length, I test fit them and trim them where needed. I install the panel mould with a brad nailer and glue the miters to keep them tight. I then fill the nail holes, sand them, and prime the wood to prep it for paint.

This description contains affiliate links, which provide our channel with funds for producing more videos for our viewers.

#wainscoting

[ellenstevens]

I can't thank you enough! I was having a terrible time cutting the acute angles on the stairway wainscoting. I watched your video and I was then able to do it perfectly.

[beanmf]

I used nearly identical dimensions, but used 1/4" ply to give horizontal grain to the backing. Pieces joined with Kreg joints rather than gluing with inner moulding attached with a pin nailer. Entire assembly pneumatically nailed to the wall. This makes removal trivial if some later owner decides to change the look

[John-vfpy]

I wanted to thank you. I needed the reminder tips to get my crazy panel molding angles. Following your tips and thorough instructions got me through perfectly. Thank you so much again!!!

[showandgo]

Great video. Simple yo understand commentary. Thank you!

[mrprecious]

Fantastic video! Thanks for taking the time to share your knowledge. Where can we purchase the angle finder?

[TheoSmith]

I would have attached with Magnets and had a secret storage spot!!

[marytaylor]

I wish you did a video of just taking out the spindles, , mine are like how yours were and Im trying to save money by removing them myself.

[curtisbarkes]

2:45 how is that obtuse angle 48°? I don't get it

[williambrown]

Question about the 66 degree cut.
You used a 45 degree jig. Why not 33 degree on the miter

[Jigsawmaster]

How did you cut the angles using the numbers from the angle finder. You didn’t really explain

[charlesspear]

Adding glue isn't overkill I add glue to all my miter joints

[Kitchen]

Hi at 3:03 what do you mean you have to drag to 45 from 66 degrees. Many thanks and great video

[normiejeanj]

I was hopeful when I saw the title but I guess I needed something more basic with more explanation regarding the math and how you configured your final numbers for the angles. I'll keep looking elsewhere.

[jy]

Huh so u just showed a miter gauge not very helpful

[lindak]

Do you have facial muscles? Please, no offense but you did not smile once.