T Molding Alternatives

[Dizzle]

Ok, so I built my first arcade cab and for some reason, decided not to use t-molding.  I guess I didn't want to be bothered with the cost of an extra tool or any difficulties that might arise from cutting the slots (didn't know if it'd be hard or not).  Sounds crazy doesn't it?  After everything else I went through, I take a short cut like that!!   

Anyways, I of course wish I added t-molding to the cab.  My question is... is it really to late now that the cab is painted?  Are there any type of alternatives to dressing up wood edging (maybe adhesive alternatives) other than t-molding?

Thanks for any help!

Diz

[JonnyBoy]

Yeah, I was thinking the same thing. I've actually been thinking of trying some kind of U-channeling, but it's hard finding distributors. If I find anything I'll be sure to post.

[Dizzle]

U-chanelling... something like that would be perfect.  Didn't know what I'd call it.
If I find out anything, I'll get back at you too...

[Marky_1979]

why not buy t mould and cut off the bit that goes in the slot and just glue it on no hassle of routing out the slot happy days

[Dizzle]

Sounds easy enough... I think I'll give it a try, t-molding can't be that expensive is it?

[Marky_1979]

No not at all and it really makes the cab look great have a go mate will be ace

[Mark70]

Cutting the slot is really not a big deal.  Except that you're painted already and probably don't want to back track.

You can buy plastic or wood laminate edging that irons on for use with melamine stock for shelves and such.  You should be able to find black, white and wood (usually oak) at any decent lumber supply.  Home depot has it for sure.  Don't know if it will work over paint.

I think you'll get a secon rate finish by cutting the spine out of t-molding.  When you hammer t-molding into the slot it flatens out against the edge giving it that smooth look.  It's not designed to be glued on, and think that you'll be fighting it's springy curved section the whole time you're trying to glue it.

[darthbane2k]

Yeah, I was thinking the same thing. I've actually been thinking of trying some kind of U-channeling, but it's hard finding distributors. If I find anything I'll be sure to post.

I used black plastic U channels all over my cabinet. Held on the edges with super glue. Looks perfect.

[JonnyBoy]

Can you tell me where you got those u-channels? Thanks.

[darthbane2k]

Can you tell me where you got those u-channels? Thanks.

erm, Im based in the UK - I got mine from B&Q, cost

[Doc Thirst]

I did my channel after the cab was assembled.

It wasn't that hard except for the 3 or 4 pieces that are sandwiched between the sides.  For these I routed the channel as far to each side as the sides would allow, then I cut the rest of the channel (about 2 inches) with a razor knife.  The biggest hassle is removing all the equipment and setting the machine on its side.  I didn't want to dmg the sides so I used a piece of 2" form insulation to keep it off the floor.  I didn't have to lay the thing down, but it made it easier to route.

Good luck!

[brian23]

Cutting the slot is really not a big deal.  Except that you're painted already and probably don't want to back track.

You can buy plastic or wood laminate edging that irons on for use with melamine stock for shelves and such.  You should be able to find black, white and wood (usually oak) at any decent lumber supply.  Home depot has it for sure.  Don't know if it will work over paint.

I think you'll get a secon rate finish by cutting the spine out of t-molding.  When you hammer t-molding into the slot it flatens out against the edge giving it that smooth look.  It's not designed to be glued on, and think that you'll be fighting it's springy curved section the whole time you're trying to glue it.

I cut the channel out of the T-molding. It was annoying, but building a cab in an apartment is not easy! It looks fine hot glued. No difference between that or if I had cut the channel in the wood myself. No one is the wiser. Just carefully use a razor blade. More work than using a router though, but then again you don't have to worry about all the sawdust.