Learn how to make a hanging crown molding return, step by step.
[This is part of my How to Install Crown Molding Series.]
Chances are there’s at least one corner of your home that will need the crown molding returned to the wall. If you don’t know how to return a crown to the wall, fear not, I’ll show you how.
Hanging Return Example #1
When the crown molding is simply wrapped back on itself like this, I call it a hanging return. This first example shows how I returned this three-piece, Victorian cove crown molding in a hallway.
Step 1
Make a model of your crown molding like I did here, and then hold it up against the wall where you want it to stop.
Making a crown molding model helps you solve all kinds of problems before you install.
Step 2
Use a pencil to scribe the outline of the crown profile.
Thick carpenter pencils are for framing. Use a #5 mechanical pencil for finish carpentry.
Step 3
Install both the flat-stock cornice and the lower detail, both returned to the wall.
Glue and nail the upper and lower details in place.
Step 4
Make the outside miter that wraps around the lower crown detail before you install it.
Make a reurn the same depth as your lower crown detail.
Step 5
Install the crown with the return on the end. Don’t forget to use plenty of Liquid Nails on all contact surfaces.
The crown should just drop into place as one piece like this.
This is a good way to terminate a crown molding.
Hanging Return Example #2
This sequence shows how I returned a four-piece crown molding buildup in a large kitchen. The steps are the same as the previous sequence, the only change is the addition of the fourth detail, the crown necking.
Now all that’s left is to paint the crown, then the ceiling and then the walls.
Good luck!
[This is part of my How to Install Crown Molding Series.]
