T-molding....how/why?

[Wolf]

Hi all.  Had a couple questions about T-molding for anyone who has used it on their controls before.

I have seen various discussions about it, and seen some people use it in examples.  My questions are:

1) How do you apply T-molding
2) Why would you want to use T-molding?  Is it an authenticity thing?  Are there any alternatives to getting nice edges, like rounding/sanding?
3) I hear T-molding is a pain in the rear.  Are the results worth the trouble?

Thanks again everyone!

-Wolf

[eightbit]

A quote from http://www.t-molding.com/ which is an excellent source to get t-molding from.

"What is t-molding?
T-molding is the decorative trim that resides on the outer edge of arcade cabinets and many other products."


You cut a slot for the tongue of the t molding to go into. This is usually done with a router and slot cutter bit.

You can route and sand the edges of your cabinet but most people are using plywood, MDF or various other types of manufactured wood. These usually do not have edges that will look very nice or will be very durable. Plywood has a tendency for the layers to seperate and MDF is just pressed sawdust.

T-molding is not that bad to do if you plan for it. You should cut all your slots before assembling the cabinet. You should use a router with the right slot cutter bit for the t-molding your using. If you design your own cabinet plan out how your going to put the t-molding on. If you have sharp curves, you can make relief cuts in the tongue of the t-molding so that it can make the bend.

T-molding is a very durable way to put an edge on your cabinet. Nothing else will look as nice. You can get it in many colors. Most arcade cabinets use t-molding.

[Brad Lee]

I used a converted cabinet so there was already black t-molding all around. I wanted something different, so I pulled it out, and already had the slot for it to fit in.
I already had the cabinet laying on its side, so I just started at the middle of the bottom edge, pressing in as I went, following the edge of the cabinet. When I would get to a corner I would notch the tongue of the tmoldingif it was an "inside" corner, or cut a series of V shapes if it was an "outside" corner(liek the bottom front corner). Also when I got to a corner I ran down the edge I had just pressed in with a rubber hammer and it snapped in very nicely. Just continue all the way around till you get back to the bottom, cut it to fit and press/hammer it in. Its very secure and I didnt need to use any glue or filling to tighten it up

Why? Well, it is an authentic look. It's nicer to bump or rub against than a wood corner. It comes in many colors, so if you have a mainly black, or any monotone color cab you can add something that contrasts for a nice look. I went with red t-molding on a mostly black cabinet, and am using red sticks and buttons. It looks sharp.

As far as being a PITA, I had a good time with it since I already had the slot cut. I can see it being trouble if you are building from scratch and not experienced with a router.

[eightbit]

As far as being a PITA, I had a good time with it since I already had the slot cut. I can see it being trouble if you are building from scratch and not experienced with a router.

Most people who have trouble with it have trouble because the slot is to wide because they cut it that way or because of wear.

[Silverwind]

what is the typical cost to t-mold your entire cab?

[Silverwind]

I checked the t-molding website.. looks like they offer free samples!  This way you can order one of each.. and see which one will look best

SKU:        FREE_SAMPLE
Product:    Free T-Molding Samples
Quantity:   1
Selected options:
  Sample: Black - 3/4"
  Comment:
Item price: $ 0.00

Total:
-------
Payment method:  Free Samples
Delivery:        USPS - When ordering Free Samples ONLY!!
Subtotal:        $ 0.00
Shipping cost:   $ 0.00
Tax:             $ 0.00
Total:           $ 0.00


I just ordered me some free samples.. doesn't cost anything.. free shipping too.. good company

[Brad Lee]

the Quantity: 1 means 1 foot (i think)

I think it was $19 total, including S&H for 40', each side of a typical cab is between 12-18'