Miters on Tree Branches

Family Handyman

I’ve made several rustic shelves supported by tree branches. But it’s almost impossible—and a bit on the dangerous side—to cut 45-degree miters on the branches on a miter saw. Instead, screw the branch to a board and use that against the fence when you cut the miters. The two cuts will be parallel with each other. If you prefer to cut miters on the table saw with the miter gauge, do it the same way. Just be sure you mark the screw locations on the board so you don’t accidentally hit the screws while cutting. — Travis Larson