How to Make PLINTH BLOCK-101

Traditional Style

DIY for $ (Not worth calculating the cost because they are so inexpensive to make.)

This easy to build plinth block is appropriate for Victorian style door surrounds only.

The necking molding (called an astragal) gives it a senior status over simple, flat-stock style Victorian plinths.

Posts in This Series

1. How to Build DOOR TRIM-114 for About $60.00

2. PLINTH BLOCK-101: How to Make Step by Step

3. PILASTER-103: How to Make Step by Step

4. ENTABLATURE-100: How to Make Step by Step

5. How Do I Make This Large Baseboard?

6. How to Paint Moldings: Steps to paint this door trim and this room are on this page.

How to Make Victorian Plinth Blocks

Materials

MDF-200 More about MDF-200 here >>
PM-007

Step 1: Rip/Bevel the Flat-Stock

Rip the MDF board down to the widths you’ll need to make all the pieces of the plinth block. This plinth block I made 4″ wide, the same width as the pilaster. I put the 45 degree bevels on the edges with my table saw.

Step 2: Cut to Size

I cut the pieces to size (7″ tall and 4-1/4″ wide) on my miter saw, and them assemble the pieces on a flat surface. I usually do this work on top of my miter saw where I can square everything up against the fence.

Assemble the parts on a very flat surface.

Step 3: Assemble

I’ve assembled all the pieces nice and square, spackled and sanded the plinth.

Step 4: Install

Use lots of Liquid Nails on the contact surfaces between the plinth and the wall. I shot 2″ long brad nails to hold it fast.

Step 5: Install the Pilaster

Install the pilaster on top of the plinth and then finish the rest of the door surround. Note: Don’t install the necking until after the baseboard in installed.

Step 6: Install the Baseboard

Step 7: Make the Necking

Make the necking as one piece and then install it on top of the plinth block. Note where the necking meets the baseboard — I rounded the end of the necking molding so that it fit snugly into the cove of the baseboard.