Replies

1. 
   WillGeorge | Jun 25, 2005 08:35pm | #1

   "preacher block".. I have NO idea.. But sounds like my little cut-offs' I saved for Crown Molding cuts...  I keep them by my saw.. I look.. I remember which way to cut!

2. 
   mike4244 | Jun 28, 2005 10:06pm | #2

   How about plinth block? Never heard of preacher block, doesn't mean much as I have only been a carpenter for 44 years.

   If plinth block is what you mean, it's a transition piece of wood used between dissimilar moldings. Also used often where base molding is thicker than the door casings. I have run into base that was 3/4" or more thick, with casings that are 11/16" thick. The joint does not look right this way, hence, add a block of 5/4" under the casings and as high or higher than the base.

   mike

1. 
   GordyWags | Jun 29, 2005 04:39am | #3

   Hey Mike, Thanks for the reply. I read about the preacher block in the Taunton book,Trim carpentry and built-ins, by Clayton Dekorne. It says it's an alternative to a bevel square when trying to find the angle on an out of plumb plinth block or door casing when running baseboard. It is used to scribe the cut because the baseboard fits into a corner so  you can't run it long to scribe the angle. Unfortunately it does'nt go into detail on how to make one. Although it is not an essential tool for me I was thinking it might be another weapon against wacky walls and casing! Thanks again for the reply .    Brett                                                                                         

1. 
   mike4244 | Jun 29, 2005 10:10pm | #4

   Brett' though this is the first time I have heard the term " preacher block" ,after reading your post what the block is for , I know exactly what you need.

   All this is , a paralell block placed against the plinth and marked on the base. You would place the base, cut a bit long  at first, on the floor and butted to the plinth. The far end of the base would have been fitted first. Mark the length on the base, 1/16" long to spring in. Place the preacher block ( this could be any paralell block including a combination square blade) against plinth , mark the base.

   I have never used this method, what I do is use a pair of scribers instead.

   mike