Simple Way to Trace a Profile of Cornice

Understanding Cornice Matching for Older Properties

Finding matching cornice for older properties can be a daunting task, primarily because many original cornices were created *in situ* when the property was first constructed. This method makes finding an exact match difficult.

However, we can help you create a template that can be used to replicate your cornice, regardless of who carries out the work.

 

With our extensive experience in this field, having completed hundreds of such projects over many years, we can offer advice based on photos you send us.

Why Finding a Match is Difficult

One key reason matching old cornices is so challenging is that, historically, tradesmen would work on multiple rooms or houses at a time.

They would cut a custom shape from sheet metal and attach it to a wooden right angle using tacks, creating a tool known as a "horse." Once the cornice work was completed, these tools were often disposed of or left in an attic.

Signs That Your Cornice Was Run *In Situ*

If you want to check whether your cornice was originally run *in situ*, there are some tell-tale signs:

• The cornice feels solid when tapped, unlike modern fibrous cornices, which sound more hollow.
• Scratching through the top white surface (around 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep) reveals a coarse base, often grey or darker in colour due to being made from locally sourced materials.
• You may find impressions of wooden laths within the ceiling part of the cornice.

Historically, craftsmen would create cornices that seamlessly connected with or extended past the ceiling line—something modern plasterboard does not easily accommodate (though there are workarounds).

They would place wooden battens or guides around the room before plastering the walls and ceilings. Each tradesman had their preferred designs, sometimes referencing style books or cutting freehand.

The running horse tool they used was discarded once the work was done.

How to Reproduce a Cornice Profile

To reproduce your cornice profile, follow these steps:

1. Safety First: Wear a face mask, eye protection, and gloves. You’ll need to make a shallow cut in the cornice, just through the surface. We recommend using a multi-tool, although a saw or grinder can work (though they can be dusty), or even a utility knife for precision.
2. Create the Template: Use a pencil to trace the side profile of the cornice onto paper. Ensure the paper is flush against the ceiling and wall (as shown in the image below). This is crucial for accuracy. Once complete, you can send this tracing to a specialist company for a quote, avoiding the cost of an initial visit.
3. Choose the Cut Location: Select a discreet area in the room to make a shallow vertical cut (approximately 3/4 inch deep). Trim your paper template to fit the coving, ensuring it touches both the wall and ceiling.
4. Tracing: After carefully tracing the profile, you should end up with a drawing that includes the ceiling and wall lines, which are essential.
5. Repair the Cut: Since the cut is not deep, it can be easily repaired using Polyfiller or a similar product. Apply a second coat if needed, and smooth it down using water and wet-and-dry sandpaper (grades 120 or 180), finishing with a damp sponge.

Submitting Your Template

Once you’ve completed your template, ensure it touches the wall and ceiling edges as shown in the image. Include your contact details and the length of cornice required (in metres or feet) on the same sheet, and send it to:

UKPlaster
Vulcan Works, Dixon Street, Horwich, BL6 7PH
Tel: 01204 693 900

On receiving your profile outline, we will confirm the price within 24 hours. If the price is acceptable, we will cut the shape from tin and fasten it to a wooden brace (the running horse).

For smaller amounts of cornice (e.g., 5m or less), we run the profile directly on our benches. For larger quantities, we reverse the pattern and create a mould to cast multiple sections as needed.

Fitting the Cornice

We primarily fit cornices for insurance companies due to the higher labour costs that may be prohibitive for individuals.

However, arrangements for direct customers can also be made.