This project was built and designed by Jay Bates. It’s a straightforward window upgrade using scrap MDF to create a clean, painted cornice that neatly covers blinds and adds visual appeal to any room.
Designed as a three-sided box, this cornice offers a tidy, custom look and is a perfect weekend project. It’s easy to build, requires only basic tools, and can be tailored to fit any window in your home.
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Why Build a Window Cornice?
A window cornice adds architectural detail while hiding hardware from blinds or shades. It turns a functional window treatment into a more polished feature of the room.
Jay’s design keeps it simple—using MDF for its affordability, clean edges, and paint-friendly surface. With a bit of trim and paint, the project becomes an easy way to refresh your space with minimal expense.
Planning and Materials
Before getting started, Jay measures the width of the window and chooses MDF for the main structure. While specific dimensions will vary depending on your window, the overall layout is always a three-sided box.
The materials used include:
- MDF boards
- Wood glue and brad nails
- Optional screws for added strength
- Cove and crown molding for decorative edges
- A 1×4 board for mounting
- Paint for finishing
Most builders will already have the required tools on hand: a saw for cutting, a nail gun or hammer, wood glue, and a drill. A miter saw is helpful for cutting the molding precisely, especially when dealing with corners.
Cutting and Assembling the Frame
Jay begins by cutting the MDF to fit the window dimensions. The main box includes a front face and two side returns, all cut from the same sheet for a consistent look.
After the cuts are made, wood glue is applied to each joint, and the panels are fastened using brad nails. Though not required, Jay mentions that adding screws to the inside corners adds extra support—especially useful for wider or heavier cornices.
Once the frame is square and secure, any visible fasteners are filled and sanded smooth in preparation for paint and trim.
Adding Trim for Style
The molding selected for this project includes cove molding at the bottom and crown molding at the top. This combination gives the cornice a traditional, finished appearance that works well in most rooms.
Jay takes care to cut all trim pieces accurately, using a miter saw and marking carefully to ensure clean corner joints. These trim elements do more than just decorate—they hide fasteners and minor inconsistencies, helping give the project a professional finish.
Mounting the Cornice to the Wall
With the main structure complete and trimmed, Jay installs a 1×4 board across the back interior of the cornice. This mounting board provides a secure base for attaching the cornice to the wall.
Before mounting, he finds the studs in the wall to ensure strong anchoring points. The cornice is screwed into the 1×4, and then the whole unit is secured to the wall by driving screws into the studs.
By placing the screws behind the crown molding, Jay keeps the hardware hidden. Any gaps or seams are filled with paintable caulk for a clean transition.
Painting and Final Finish
The last step is painting the cornice to match the room’s color scheme. MDF takes paint very well, and a couple of coats are all it takes to achieve a smooth, solid finish.
Jay recommends using a semi-gloss or satin paint for durability and ease of cleaning. Once dry, the cornice looks like it was always part of the room—framing the window and hiding unsightly hardware.
Why This Project Works
What makes this build so effective is its simplicity. The use of MDF keeps costs down while still allowing for a great finish. It’s ideal for repurposing leftover materials and doesn’t require advanced joinery or specialty tools.
This project also invites customization. You can easily modify the molding styles, add decorative elements, or paint it in bold colors to fit your space. It’s flexible, accessible, and surprisingly impactful.
A Fast and Satisfying Upgrade
Jay’s window cornice project shows how even small builds can improve a home’s overall feel. With basic cuts, a few details, and a couple of coats of paint, you can upgrade a window in an afternoon.
Whether you’re hiding blinds or just want a cleaner look above your windows, this is a low-cost, high-impact addition to your space.
Please support Jay by purchasing his plans here: Jay’s Custom Creations.