Molding profile knives are specialized cutting tools a molder uses to create decorative shapes and contours in wood. The right profile knife provides precision, clean edges, and repeatable results, whether you’re producing crown molding, casings, baseboards, or cabinet details.
At Williams & Hussey, we offer hundreds of standard molding knives, but these ten profiles are among the most commonly used by professional woodworkers, builders, and restoration specialists. Each knife fits our molders perfectly and makes quality cuts across various projects.
Cove – 2000
Applications: Crown molding, chair rails, cabinet edges, wall trim
This smooth, concave 3 1/4″ profile is perfect for soft transitions and classic design accents. It’s widely used in ceiling trim and furniture edgework, adding subtle detail without overwhelming the overall design.
Planer – 2750
Applications: Surface preparation, thickness reduction
The 2750 isn’t a molding knife, it’s a shop essential. Use it to smooth rough-cut lumber and level surfaces before applying molding profiles. A must-have for prepping stock for clean, consistent passes.
Base Cap – 2105
Applications: Baseboards, wall-to-floor transitions
This decorative cap sits on top of a flat baseboard, commonly used in traditional and historic trim packages. It adds elegance to what would otherwise be a simple wall detail.
Cove – 2002
Applications: Crown molding, furniture edges, general trim
A slightly different radius than the 2000 version, this 4″ version offers a more refined curve and is excellent for modern and traditional interior styles.
Bead and Quirk – 3115-EP
Applications: Cabinet doors, paneling, decorative furniture
Combining a rounded bead with a sharp quirk, this profile adds texture and depth to cabinetry and furniture, making it a favorite for custom woodworkers.
Quarter Round – 3004
Applications: Flooring transitions, furniture bases, stair trim
A timeless solution for hiding gaps and softening edges. It is often used where flooring meets baseboards or in furniture details.
Casing – 2268-CP
Applications: Door and window trim
A versatile, bold casing profile used to frame out doors and windows. It is suitable for modern and traditional homes and delivers a finished, professional appearance.
Cove – 2003
Applications: Cabinet trim, transitional moldings
This smaller 3/4″ cove has a gentler radius, offering a subtle profile ideal for transitional designs that blend modern and traditional styles.
Cove – 2004
Applications: Ceilings, built-ins, large architectural trim
At 5 1/4″, this deeper and more dramatic cove profile cuts bold contours. It is perfect for built-in cabinetry and custom ceiling treatments.
Casing – 2299-CP
Applications: Refined door and window trim
A clean, elegant casing knife that’s a favorite for homeowners and professionals alike. It works across design styles from classic to contemporary and gives openings a tailored finish.
How to Choose the Right Molding Knife
If you’re just getting started or adding to your knife collection, consider the following:
- Start with your project goal—crown molding, casing, baseboard, etc.
- Match the profile shape and scale to your space or furniture.
- Consider the type of wood you’ll be using.
- Evaluate whether a standard or custom knife best fits your needs.
- Not sure? Contact our team for help choosing the right profile.
Need a Knife That’s Not on This List?
Williams & Hussey offers hundreds of standard molding knives and specializes in custom knife design. If you don’t see the profile you need, we can create one based on a sample, drawing, or sketch.
Explore more:
- Browse Standard Profile Knives
- Learn About Custom Knife Services
- Request a Quote
Ready to Order?
Many of these popular knives are in stock and ready to ship. For others, we can custom-cut your order with a quick turnaround. To place an order, visit our Standard Knife Profile page, email us at customerservice@williamsnhussey.com, or call (641) 843-3240.
We’re here to help you get the perfect cut—every time.
