Mitering is the quickest and easiest way to cut and join moldings at corners where it is important for the moldings to appear as though they have joined without a seam. With mitering, the ends to be joined on each of the two pieces of wood are cut at an angle equal to half that of the corner angle. For example: miter cuts at a 90-degree corner would each be at 45 degrees. Coping is the "other" technique that some say is better than mitering. However, coping can only be used for inside corners. Here, a coping saw is used to cut the shape of one molding into the one joining it ? an end-to-face connection. A coped cut is best made with a slight bevel to insure a tight joint at the face of the molding. Coping cannot be used for outside corners. Here a miter must be used. Properly cut, a miter is every bit as good as -- if not better than -- a coped joint. Especially when the molding is large and has an intricate pattern. We usually miter. Pre-fabbed corners are available with some crown moldings that eliminate the need for a miter cut and simplify installation. However, most crown moldings are stand alone items and must be installed with a miter- and/or a cope-cut.